Polar Bears Football Club – Player’s Code of Conduct

At Polar Bears Football Club (PBFC), we’ve been building a community around soccer for 10 years, and our mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for the youth of our community to learn and grow through the game of soccer. Whether it’s on the pitch or off, we strive to help our players develop essential life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and discipline. Our goal is to create not just skilled soccer players, but well-rounded individuals who feel connected to the sport and the community.

As a member of PBFC, we ask that you commit to the following principles:

1. Respect the Referees
   The referee has full authority on the field. We expect all players, coaches, and spectators to respect their decisions and uphold the integrity of the game.
2. Respect for All
   We celebrate diversity and respect every player, coach, and spectator regardless of gender, background, or beliefs.
3. Health and Safety First
   Your well-being is our top priority. We strive to create a physically and emotionally safe environment for all players to develop and enjoy the game.
4. Strive for Your Best
   PBFC is a place for competitive recreational soccer. Embrace challenges, learn from your teammates, and become the best version of yourself.
5. Integrity and Sportsmanship
   Uphold PBFC's values of honor, integrity, and fair play. Be respectful to your teammates, opponents, coaches, and everyone involved with the club.
6. Equal Opportunity
   Every player deserves equal time for development, practice, and competition. We are committed to providing fair opportunities for everyone to grow.
7. Encourage Positive Sportsmanship
   Support your teammates, coaches, and referees. Build each other up, and always show respect, both on and off the field.
8. Positive Behavior
   All PBFC players are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship, respect, and courtesy towards teammates, opponents, referees, and all members of the club.
9. Honor the Spirit of the Game
   The heart of soccer lies in the joy of the game. Play with passion, but always in the spirit of fair competition.
10. Respectful Communication
    Keep your language and actions respectful. Profanity, abusive behavior, or any conduct that creates a negative atmosphere will not be tolerated.
11. No Tolerance for Discrimination
    We do not tolerate racism or discrimination of any kind. Treat everyone with kindness and respect.
12. Substance-Free
    The use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is strictly prohibited at all PBFC events, both on and off the field.
13. Be a Role Model
    Take responsibility for your actions. Set the standard for others by being accountable and demonstrating the highest level of respect and professionalism.
14. Safety First
    Always play safely, looking out for the well-being of your teammates and opponents. The goal is to enjoy soccer, not to cause harm.
15. Lead by Example
    Show fairness, consistency, and professionalism in all interactions. Be someone others can look up to both on and off the field.
16. Respectful Listening
    Listen to coaches, teammates, and referees with respect. We are all learning and growing together.
17. Adhere to Club Requirements
    Ensure that all background checks, concussion training, and other necessary certifications are completed in accordance with PBFC guidelines before participating in any team activities.
18. Support Player Development
    Coaches, parents, and players should always work together to listen to concerns, ask questions, and support each other in the player’s growth both as an athlete and an individual.
19. Report Concerns
    If you witness any form of abuse or inappropriate behavior, report it immediately to the PBFC executive board. Your safety and the safety of others are paramount.

Anti-Bullying Policy

At PBFC, we value each player’s emotional well-being as much as their physical health. We believe that every player deserves a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment. Bullying, in any form, will not be tolerated at PBFC.

What is bullying?

• Verbal Bullying: Teasing, name-calling, or threatening behavior.
• Physical Bullying: Hitting, pushing, or damaging someone’s belongings.
• Social Bullying: Excluding someone, spreading rumors, or embarrassing someone on purpose.

If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, please report it to your coach or a PBFC board member immediately. We take all reports seriously and will investigate them thoroughly.

Consequences for Bullying
If a player is found to be bullying others, they will receive a warning. For repeated or severe bullying, the player may be suspended or removed from the club, and law enforcement may be involved when necessary.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can create a positive, supportive, and safe environment where everyone can thrive. Thank you for being a part of Polar Bears Football Club!