Our mission at EmPowerBall is to foster mental well-being and physical fitness through a supportive and inclusive football league. By participating, you commit to the following principles, which help us create a safe and empowering environment for all members.

1. Respect for Others

• Show respect for teammates, opponents, referees, and organisers at all times.
• Refrain from using offensive, discriminatory, or derogatory language or behaviour.
• Treat all participants with empathy and understanding, recognising the diversity of backgrounds and mental health experiences.

2. Respect the Referee

• Please respect the referee and any decision they may take. Any Abuse of Foul Language directed at the Referee will NOT BE TOLERATED and depending on the seriousness of the incident one of the following outcomes may occur.

1. 1. Player is shown a red card and removed from the game.
   2. Player may be suspeneded for future games
   3. Player maybe be excuded from EmPowerBall Leagues
   4. Player may be reported to FA leading to a wider ban

3. Commitment to Mental Well-being

• Acknowledge that the primary focus of EmPowerBall is to support mental health and well-being, not solely competitive football.
• Participate in mental health discussions, workshops, and check-ins if and when comfortable. EmPowerBall encourages, but does not require, openness to these resources.
• Respect the mental health journeys of others by maintaining confidentiality in discussions and refraining from judgment.

4. Positive Team Spirit

• Support your teammates on and off the field, encouraging a positive and empowering atmosphere.
• Celebrate successes, no matter how small, and offer constructive encouragement in the face of setbacks.
• Respect team decisions and accept the outcomes of games with a positive attitude.

5. Inclusivity and Diversity

• EmPowerBall welcomes participants of all abilities, genders, ages, and backgrounds. Embrace this diversity and make everyone feel included.
• If you notice any form of exclusion, harassment, or discrimination, report it to the organisers immediately.
• Strive to make new players feel welcomed, and foster friendships within the league.

6. Fair Play

• Play the game fairly, respecting the rules and spirit of the game. Dishonesty, aggressive behaviour, or unsporting conduct will not be tolerated.
• Adhere to safety rules and guidelines to minimise the risk of physical and emotional harm.
• Accept referees’ decisions without protest, and encourage teammates to do the same.

7. Communication and Boundaries

• Keep communication open, honest, and respectful.
• Honour personal boundaries. If a player or team member needs space or time away from discussions or activities, respect their choice.
• Avoid any discussion or action that may feel intrusive or uncomfortable to others, especially regarding personal mental health experiences.

8. Commitment and Accountability

• Attend matches, activities, and meetings punctually. If unable to attend, inform your team or the organisers as early as possible.
• Take personal responsibility for your behaviour on and off the field, recognising the impact it has on others.
• Seek personal growth, using the EmPowerBall community as a safe place to develop resilience, understanding, and empathy.

9. Confidentiality

• Respect the confidentiality of all personal or sensitive information shared within the EmPowerBall community.
• Avoid sharing any personal stories or mental health experiences of other members without explicit permission.

10. Health and Safety

• Prioritise both your physical and mental well-being. Notify the organisers if you feel unwell or unfit to participate.
• EmPowerBall is here to support mental health; however, it is not a substitute for professional mental health services. We encourage you to seek professional support if needed.
• Report any safety hazards, injuries, or health concerns to the organisers promptly.

Acknowledgment

By participating in EmPowerBall Football League, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. EmPowerBall reserves the right to review participation for anyone who fails to adhere to these principles. Let’s work together to create a supportive, respectful, and mentally enriching community.