On behalf of the Board and the Ballarat City FC Football Department, welcome to season 2024, and welcome to Ballarat City Football Club. If you are new to our Club or a returning player, we are excited to have you join us for the 2024 season. This season we are welcoming a great mix of both existing and new members. We are excited to have you join us as we look to build a genuine player pathway to elite level football for football enthusiasts throughout the Ballarat and Western Victorian region.

Ballarat City Football Club has continued to build momentum from the 2022 season, 2023 saw the Club field teams in all age groups and achieve success throughout the season in each of these age groups. Player recruitment, development and retention increased on previous years, more than half of the Academy teams finished in the top 5 on the JNPL ladder and the culture built by coaches and players alike created an inspiring & exciting environment to be a part of.

Much preparation has been undertaken for Season 2024 to build on the successes of 2023, and there is eager anticipation for this coming seasons' Academy teams. The Board is extremely pleased to welcome Lee Stevens in the role of Football Operations, Lee will oversee senior, JNPL & junior football working with the coaches and developing their skills & assisting in the delivery of the curriculum. Lee brings with him a wealth of both football coaching and playing experience across Australia and the UK. Lee, has a passion for youth and junior development, he currently heads up his own football academy in Daylesford.

We are excited to welcome back Justin who this year will take on the role of JNPL Football Operations as well as the U18's Head Coach. His role will see him working directly with the JNPL coaches to assist their development as well as the delivery of the JNPL curriculum, he will be the contact point for all matters relating to the JNPL. Justin will be a familiar face to many and will be a great resource for those players who are new to us this year. Reach out and make yourself known to Justin. We are also pleased to announce Rory Ludeman as U14's Head Coach, David Carton as U15's Head Coach & Danny Koleski as U16's Head Coach. Assisting these coaches for the season we have Josh Smith U15's, Simon Walker U16's & Dragi Koleski U18's. Welcome back to our fantastic team of Coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly to support our Football Department and help guide us to a successful Season 2023.

Board of the Ballarat City Football Club

2. INTRODUCTION TO THE ACADEMY

Ballarat City FC are committed to the development of young players within a holistic programme and safe learning environment. Football also presents, for many young people the catalyst for self-improvement which can open doors and opportunities to a happy and successful life. The program will develop players so that they primarily develop a deep hunger and passion for football and foster their development as they seek to achieve their dreams and ambitions through football. We understand the demands playing in an Elite Development pathway can have on aspiring talent and their families; however, the football/education/life balance is vital for the well- being of the player and their family and the program seeks to ensure that balance is maintained. Achieving success in all walks of life requires dedication, consistency and sacrifice. Pursuing one's dreams in football is not easy and can lead to stress for the player and their family and support network. Our Academy program and team's advice and support is readily available and allows the family of our Academy players to enjoy their time together. For many players and their families this will be an exciting opportunity and no doubt parents and players will have many questions. This pack will hopefully answer many questions you have and give you a greater insight into the requirements of joining the Ballarat FC Academy. The football, social, moral and educational welfare of every player is of the highest priority and is reflected in the "Guidelines' section of this document. The challenge and honour of becoming a Ballarat FC Academy player who may go on to play the game professionally places demands and expectations on players of all ages. Whilst it is our objective to ensure that this experience is a beneficial and enjoyable one, we do expect that players, parents / guardians, staff and officials are fully committed to the program. Football is the world's biggest and most competitive sport and therefore the toughest sport in which to forge a career. Success is not guaranteed. What we do promise is that each player who comes through the Academy and commits to the program will be a better footballer and a well-rounded individual who will be capable of dealing with the challenges of life and sport.

Our BCFC Academy Program aims to achieve the following: Place the welfare of the player at the centre.

Players are expected to attend all Academy Program training sessions, as scheduled. If for some reason a player is unable to attend it is expected that notice be given as soon as possible to allow coaching staff to make session adaptions. Players are advised not to train outside the program with other clubs such as their school team / Futsal team etc. The program is carefully managed to avoid overloading and injury, these extra activities, when unchartered, are not considered when working on the players individual programmes and may contribute to fatigue or other health related problems. Access to Matches: Players will be provided fair opportunities to play. U13 - U16 Phase - Development Phase Itis important that all players have access to enough matches to allow them to develop within our environment. However, we also need to ensure that we instil and reinforce a culture which rewards hard work and application. There will be no equal game time policy, however the expectation is that all players will be participating in a volume of matches sufficient to meet their development needs. The most deserving players should still be rewarded with more match time in this phase of the Academy.

U18 - U23 Phase - Performance Phase As our players move towards Senior football our emphasis slowly shifts so that players become used to the need to be competitive and earn the right to participate in games - as they will need to do in the First Team. Opportunities to play up an age group on occasion. The club recognises that opportunities may present themselves for players to play some matches for the above age group. This is seen as a reward for players that are performing and applying themselves well within their current age group. Decisions regarding players being rewarded with the opportunity to play up an age group will be taken by the relevant age group coaches and the Junior Football Operations Manager.

Feedback is recognised as 'The Gold' of development and a major factor in driving intrinsic motivation. The key element we will foster is self-reflection. To assist players to get the most out of their time at the Ballarat City FC Academy, we ask each player to complete an Individual Player Plan (IPP) in which they identify the key areas they believe they should be focusing on both inside and away from the Ballarat City FC

Identify players of potential in the Ballarat region and expose them to an elite player pathway. Ensure a multi-tiered player pathway in partnership with Local Clubs, Regional Bodies, Schools, Colleges, Universities and Professional A-League Clubs.

Expose the player to an elite program of technical, tactical, physical and mental development designed to maximise the player's individual potential.

Provide education and support to maximise the players career options.

Liaise with players and parents/guardians to ensure that all potential barriers are overcome and that the program meets the needs of the individual.

Where possible, provide support to the player beyond their time at Ballarat FC in their football development and goals.

To foster a lifelong passion for Sport and physical activity and to support young people in building sustainable life skills and most importantly to develop good people.

The program provides for the comprehensive technical, tactical, physical, and mental development of the player. The focus will be on, age specific development that relates to the key learning and development stages of young players aged 12 - 23yrs.

Research suggests that elite footballers have a significant practice and match history which has been developed within both informal and formal environments. The program provides the formal contacts necessary to help the player meet their development requirements through a culture of purposeful practice and competitive matches.

The players will train three times each week and play one game each week for 10 months of the year with a view to developing the physical and mental strength of the player in parallel with their technical and tactical football development.

Standards will be exact and individual programs will be set with clear goals and outcomes that ensure each individual player progresses at the desired rate.

The program (excluding U23 Group who have increased commitments) will comprise of: 46 weeks of contact (max) A holiday period mid September (TBC) and at Christmas Football conditioning program Mental skills program Technical and tactical program Tactical and game development program A match program Football Education program including education in respect of:

Each player's IPP: Is reviewed and counter critiqued with their Coach, with the goals mutually agreed; and becomes the focus of 2 x 6 week cycles and requires the player to review their game footage and physical data to reinforce whether they are on track and to build on progress. The coach will then provide feedback and help design session content that promotes specific learning

This cycle is repeated at least 3 times over the course of the year and is central to the seasonal review. (Pre-season, mid-season & post-season)

Each player will be required to sign an agreement with Ballarat City Football Club (Player Agreement The Player Agreement will be for a period of 12 months. Once the Player Agreement has been signed by both the player and their parent/guardian, the Club will then register the player with Football Victoria ( FV) in accordance with the FV registration guidelines and the competition regulations. If a player continues to be part of the Academy for more than 12 months, a new Player Agreement will need to be signed by the player (and their parents/guardians) prior the expiry date of the preceding Player Agreement.

All players will be required to pay $2420 (including GST) to contribute towards the costs associated with FV registration, training apparel, playing kit, pitch hire, referee payments

A deposit of $400 must be paid by the 18th of November 2023. The deposit will be deducted off the total fees. The remaining $2020 is due by the 31 st of January 2024. Payment plans can be set up with the club by contacting Sarah Hodge. (Club treasurer) Please note payment plans need to be adhered to once set up with regular payments as mutually agreed upon. Failure to uphold regular payments without prior notice will impact selection of your child/children on match day.

9. PARENT/GUARDIAN VOLUNTEERING POLICY

As Ballarat City Football Club are seen as a community football club, we are continuing the Parent/Guardian Volunteering Policy for the 2024 season. The purpose of the Parent Volunteering Policy is to create a community environment and culture within the club which has everyone supporting the running of the club. The minimum requirement for the Parent/Guardian Volunteering Policy is as follows: 10 JNPL Matches - This can be running the line, Ground Marshall, BBQ & Pitch Setup (This may be more or less)

If the parent/guardian wish to opt out of the club volunteering policy, then they can do so at a cost of $330 (including GST) The volunteering does not have to be the same family member. Volunteering commitments will be marked against the player therefore anyone can make up the hours for the player including the player themselves. A roster will be created by the club/team managers to spread the volunteering evenly, and make sure you know ahead of time when you are scheduled to volunteer. If for any reason that the volunteering would not be possible then this can be discussed by contacting Kerrie-Ann Lockhart. (info@ballaratcityfc.com.au)

At Ballarat City FC we hope that our player identification process is robust enough to prevent a significant turnover of players on an annual basis. However, some players do not make progress and the Academy environment can become one which no longer serves their needs. This can, in some instances, result in the player leaving the Academy before the conclusion of the Player Agreement. In this case we would work with you to implement an exit plan including helping the player find a suitable environment with ongoing monitoring so that the door remains open. Should the player or club wish to terminate the Player Agreement at any time, before expiry of the relevant Player Agreement, then either party can give notice in writing to the other of their intention to terminate the Player Agreement, and the reasons why within 10 Business Days of receiving (or providing) an Exit Notice, we will hold a meeting with the player (and their parent/guardian) to agree an exit strategy and timetable which is mutually acceptable to the player and the Club. The Club reserves the right to retain the registration of the player where the above process has not been followed.

Our commitment to you To ensure that the player's safety and welfare is protected at all times, and to allow families to plan in advance, we will undertake to: To be fair, reasonable and honest in dealings with players and parents/guardian To demonstrate respect at all times Place the welfare and emotional happiness of the player as the priority at all times Provide a safe environment in which the player can learn and develop without fear of abuse, bullying or emotional stress Provide trained, screened and qualified coaching and support staff Ensure high quality facilities appropriate to the wellbeing and safety of the players are used for the program Provide access to physiotherapy and remedial support during training and competition.

Undertake robust appraisal and review processes for each player across all areas of the

program Provide written and verbal feedback relating to areas of concern as highlighted within the appraisal procedure

Give written and verbal warnings regarding any disciplinary issue that may result in the player being released from the program Give written notice if the player is being released from the program

to ensure the welfare of all players in the Academy program, you undertake and agree at all times to:

To be fair, reasonable and honest in dealings with staff To demonstrate respect at all times Complete all paper work as required and return as requested Complete, sign and exchange the Player Agreement in the prescribed form prior to taking up your place Secure additional medical cover (as you deem reasonably necessary from time to time) Ensure you notify us of any change of circumstance Raise any welfare concerns immediately with your Head Coach, or JNPL Operations Manager. Notify the Club of any illness or injury that would prevent attendance or impede your performance Arrive at designated venues at times requested Undertake all tasks as set by the Academy Conform to, and comply with, the Ballarat City FC Code of Conduct Refrain from undertaking unauthorised activities at the Academy

Each player and their parent/guardian must at all times comply with the Ballarat City FC Code of Conduct and be aware of their obligations under the Ballarat City FC Code of Conduct (Refer Annex A: Club Code) In addition to the Club Code, the following applies to any participants in the Academy Program (Academy Code), and by signing and returning the Player Agreement, both the player and each of their parents/guardians, agree to comply with the Club Code and the Academy Code (together the Code of Conduct A failure to comply with any part of the Code of Conduct at any time, may result in termination of the Player Agreement.

REGISTRATION AND DATA PROTECTION

It is necessary for all players who are selected for the Ballarat City FC Program (Academy Program) to enter into a Player's Agreement with Ballarat City FC. You will see that the form requires detailed information about the player and some information about the parent(s)/guardian(s), to be provided to Ballarat City FC, including what is regarded as 'personal information' (that is, information or opinion, whether true or not, about an identified individual or an individual who is reasonably identifiable. Such information includes a person's name, age and contact details Such personal information is collected from the player and his parent/guardian: to register the player's participation in the Academy Program;

to register the player with FV and/or any other relevant governing body or authority of

to ensure compliance with the rules of the game; to develop, monitor and enhance each program within the Academy Program to ensure it is tailored to the needs and skills of the player; to monitor the development of the player; to manage the relationship between Ballarat City FC, the player and the player's parents/guardians; to develop data with respect to the Academy Program; to promote the conduct, operations and success of the BCFC Academy Program; to comply with any legal or regulatory collection obligations; and for other purposes required or authorised by or under law, including purposes for which you have provided your express or implied consent.

Ballarat City FC may also collect personal information about the player and/or their parents/guardians from third parties (including former football clubs, coaches, educational institutions and other similar people) Included in the personal information BCFC may collect and retain (either before, on or after the commencement of any Player Agreement) is what is called health information. Health information is personal information about your health (or any disability) as well as other personal information collected when you are using or receiving a health service (including a service through our medical staff), including: notes about any symptoms you describe or our medical department's observations and opinions of your health prescription information test results and reports in respect of medical matters medical history

your Medicare number private hospital and day surgery admission and discharge records other sensitive information about you such as your race, sexuality or religion.

By entering into the Player Agreement (and signing this Information Pack)

The player and their parent/guardian will be taken to have consented to the collection and use of their personal information as set out above. If the player and / or his parent/guardian fails to provide the personal information requested by BCFC in the Player's Agreement (or as otherwise contemplated above), the player will not be permitted to participate in the Academy Program. This information will be stored on a central database in Australia which is password protected. Personal information is only accessible by persons at BCFC that require access to that information and such personnel have been directed to keep such information secure from unauthorised access or disclosure.

Such personal information may be disclosed by BCFC to the following persons / entities solely for the purposes listed above:

Academy Program and other football providers and associations such as FV, FFA, FIFA and the AFC

coaches who implement and / or run the Academy Program (including the Head Coach) the Chairman - Football team and any other personnel involved in the Academy Program's internal disciplinary procedures support staff who implement and / or run the Academy Program (including the Football Operations Coordinator) and BCFC. health providers (for example, physiotherapists, the club doctor and other remedial support staff) any other person necessary in order to enable MVFC to deliver the Academy Program to you as otherwise contemplated by this Information Pack and/or the Player Agreement. The player and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) may access such personal information, seek to correct any such personal information, and make a complaint with respect to any breach of applicable privacy law in the use of such personal information, by contacting Justin Angeleski using the details below. Any concerns or queries with regards to privacy matters and/or data protection are to be addressed-Justin Angeleski

In signing the Player Agreement, each player and their parent/guardian agrees to: Consent to the Club acting on behalf of the player as contemplated by the Player Agreement in the event of an emergency. In such an event, the Club will always endeavour to speak to parents/guardians prior to any action / emergency treatment being undertaken, however, at times this may not be possible. Where there may be a serious threat to the well-being of your child and in the event of our medical personnel not being able to contact you, we will require this consent to act on your behalf.

Please refer to Medical History & Injury Management Form.

As a registered player with the FV, each player in the Academy program will receive basic insurance cover (Basic Cover) as detailed at: http://www.gowgatessport.com.au/football/memberfederations/ Ballarat City FC does not warrant that the Basic Cover is sufficient for a player, or that the Basic Cover will be adequate to compensate the player for any loss or injury they may suffer as a result of, in respect of, their participation in the Academy program. Ballarat City FC strongly recommends that each player and their parents/guardians seek advice as to any additional insurance that may be required, given their personal circumstances and recommends that every player has adequate Private Health Insurance. At a minimum, a player should ensure they have insurance in place to cover the following: Emergency Ambulance Hospital accommodation - day surgery overnight, special care unit

Prostheses (surgically implanted Doctor's bills - surgical fees, in hospital consultations (some out of pocket expenses may be incurred) Accidental injury Dental Surgery Joint investigations & reconstructions Knee arthroscopy & meniscectomy Shoulder and ankle arthroscopy

Even if you do not obtain additional insurance cover (i.e. over and above the Basic Cover), you are required under the Player Agreement to consent to the player receiving any medical treatment (including without limitation, ambulance transportation) which is considered by Ballarat City FC to be advisable or deemed reasonable before, during or after any activities forming part of the Academy Program at any time and you also indemnify and will keep indemnified BCFC for all costs associated with this medical treatment. This means if you do not have adequate cover, you may be out of pocket for any costs incurred in obtaining such treatment. *Please be aware that many private health insurers definition of "emergency ambulance" excludes sporting injury, and as such we recommend you review the policy wording in detail. If you are unsure you may wish to take out an Ambulance Victoria membership, as Ballarat City FC does not cover ambulance transportation.

The highest standards of self-discipline are expected from players at all times. All players must conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner, showing respect to fellow players and officials. Violence of any nature, r regardless of provocation is not acceptable. Unsportsmanlike behaviour may result in an appearance before a disciplinary panel and/or termination of the Player Agreement and the player's participation in the Academy program.

Players are expected to pay all fines relating to bookings and sending offs for : Violent play; Abusive behaviour (including back chatting the referee); and Petty indiscretions and a lack of discipline.

The highest standards of behaviour and sportsmanship are expected from parents, showing respect for all players and officials at all times. Violence of any nature, regardless of provocation is not acceptable. Parents will be expected to pay fines for any action taken against them by the FV or the FFA. Coaching from the side is frowned upon, the only feedback the players need during the game is from the Coach. Encouragement and recognising good play from both teams is encouraged.

Players are expected to attend squad sessions when required at the times and locations determined by the Club. Only sickness and injury are acceptable reasons for withdrawal and exemption from participation. Any other reason will only be considered following notification and in consultation with the Age Group Head Coach.

Players will be subject to strict guidelines regarding access to and from the premises at which any Academy Program activities are being conducted from time to time.

Parents need to confirm if they are dropping their child at the Academy or the child is travelling independently. Players must register (sign in/greet the coach) on arrival (the player does not become the responsibility of BCFC until they have confirmed they are present) Players must sign out on departure (and in doing so they are releasing themselves from BCFC's responsibility) If for some reason a player is not collected by the prescribed time, members of staff will remain with the player until they are collected. Full compliance with this procedure is required at all times so that we are aware of the players whereabouts and safety.

Players are expected to attend all activities forming part of their Academy Program in accordance with the stipulated time schedule. If for any reason you need to amend the arrival or departure time, please speak with your relevant coach to ensure they are aware and can plan their coaching session accordingly. Coaches will ensure training sessions are finished as scheduled in the training schedule.

ACADEMY PREMISES AND TRAINING VENUES

At each of the facilities/premises where the player undertakes any part of the Academy

Players must familiarise themselves with the safety procedures. Players will be expected to maintain high standards of hygiene at all times. Players will be expected to keep the dressing rooms neat & tidy at all times. Players are expected to ensure training and match field are free from litter after every session and game. Alcohol and smoking are expressly forbidden by all parties.

Players are expected to wear the designated apparel for all activities undertaken as part of the Academy Program. Each player will receive a training kit, a home & an away playing kit. It is the players responsibility to launder & bring the playing kits to all games. Players are

required to wear their training top to all scheduled matches & change into playing top prior to game time. No player is permitted to dress in sports wear other than the official Academy apparel when travelling to or from Academy Program activities (or when participating in Academy Program activities Official Ballarat City FC apparel will be available to purchase as a package - this includes 1x rain jacket (waterproof), 1x tracksuit (pants & top) and 1x polo t-shirt. Bags may be purchased separately.

All communication during the term of the Player Agreement in respect of the Code of Conduct or any matters relating to the Academy Program should be directed Justin Angeleski. It is your responsibility to ensure the Club is updated with any change in your personal details, or if you develop any medical condition, impairment, disease, illness or other reason why you cannot participate in (either wholly or to the best of your ability) in the activities forming part of your Academy Program.

BCFC is committed to ensuring that a player's participation in the Academy Program does not adversely affect their education. Accordingly, all players in full time education will be expected to achieve agreed academic standards and meet acceptable levels of behaviour during their time in the Academy Program. Parents are requested to raise any concerns regarding their child's education so a joint approach can be agreed if a player falls below acceptable education standards. If this occurs, BCFC may, in consultation with the player and their parents/guardians, be required to reduce their participation levels in the Academy Program (or terminate the Player Agreement) in order to enable the Player to provide sufficient attention to their studies.

At all times, each player is an ambassador for Ballarat City FC and the Academy Program. Accordingly, each player is expected to maintain the highest standards of behaviour and self-management at all times. Any reported breaches which bring the club into disrepute,or which otherwise breach the Club Code, may result in disciplinary action or automatic termination of the Player Agreement.

Players and Parents are expected to be courteous and show respect towards all squad management, administration and support staff, fellow players and official at all times. Parents are reminded they are not to enter the field of play. If a parent/guardian fails to comply with the Code of Conduct, or otherwise the rules of the game, their actions may impact on the player's team and may have an adverse/detrimental effect on the Club. In some instances, a parent/guardian's conduct can also result in personal fine/censure/suspension by the FV / FFA. Physical confrontation is viewed as a serious breach of discipline and any violent acts may impact on the player's future at BCFC.

The use of foul and abusive language will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This includes language used on the field of play.

If players are required to travel as part of the Academy Program, all players will be expected to behave in a manner that upholds the standards of BCFC.

Any player who has a concern of any nature, no matter how trivial it may appear, can contact a member of staff.

Any parent/guardian who has concerns over the welfare of a player (or their suitability to participate in the Academy Program) should also immediately disclose their concerns (on a confidential basis) by contacting by e-mail Justin Angeleski.

All BCFC staff engaged in the Academy Program comply with the BCFC Child Safe procedures and offer assistance (within a confidential context where possible

It is important to understand that if a player raises a welfare concern with the Club, in some instances, the Club will not be permitted to, or it would be inappropriate for the Club to, share that concern with the parents/guardians of the player, and the Club will at all times comply with its legal obligations in this regard.

Mobile phones must be switched off for training sessions, seminars, meals and study periods. Mobile phones are not to be used during travel to, and from, Academy Program matches (or during the match itself) if travelling on a team bus.

Players are expected to abide by the FIFA Drugs and Alcohol Abuse Policy, together with the FFA's Anti-Doping Policy at all times. Any player found to breach either policy (or otherwise found to be taking (or have taken) drugs (whether recreational, performance enhancing or otherwise) or alcohol (in breach of the policy), may be suspended or expelled (as determined by BCFC) from the Academy Program. The player must provide any samples for drug or alcohol testing on request by the Club (or the FV, FFA or other relevant body) in order to ensure compliance with this Academy Code.

A no smoking & vaping policy is operated at all times. Any player found to be in contravention of this policy may be liable for suspension or possible exclusion. Parents are requested not to smoke or vape at training and match venues.

All players participating in the Academy Program will be videoed and photographed for training and promotion. All image rights will remain the property of the Club. Each player consents to:

the Club recording their likeness and/or voice by any means (including but not limited to audio and visual recordings by television cameras and photographers) (together the Images); the collection and use of their personal information in accordance with the Player Agreement and BCFC's Privacy Policy; and the use of the Images for commercial exploitation and other promotional or public relations purposes, throughout the world by any means (including but not limited to broadcast, telecast and print) by BCFC, Ballarat City Football Club and their commercial partners without compensation to the player or their parent/guardian (or any other person), including, recording the player participation in the Academy Program activities and using the Images at the venue and on the vision screens.

Players have a significant role to play in the image of Ballarat City FC. Players must at all times ensure press and media interviews, releases and statements reflect the official position of the Club and the Academy. Players agree to follow press briefings given by Academy Program staff at all times.

If the player is selected by the FFV/FFA to compete for the Victorian State/Australian National Team (or is selected by another national body representing Football in their country to represent that national team), both the player and the Club must comply with the FIFA Statutes. This means: the Club will release and make you available to participate in the relevant Representative Matches on notice from the relevant National body acting reasonably (provided the relevant notice required under the FIFA Statutes has been provided); and the player must promptly report for, and punctually attend, all Representative

Matches and associated camps, training sessions, media conferences, promotional activities and other functions. If the player is not able to meet any requirements due to a medical condition, then the player must, on request, submit themselves to a medical examination of the relevant body's medical advisor. If the player fails to comply with those requirements,

then they may also be prohibited from taking part in any game for the Club during the relevant period for which they would otherwise have been on representative duty.

13. GRIEVANCE & DISCIPLINARY MATTERS

Disciplinary Procedures Justin Angelseski with the support of Lee Stevens will have ultimate responsibility in all disciplinary matters involving players (and parents/guardians) for breaches of the Academy

Minor behavioural infringements (as determined by BCFC) may be dealt with by the relevant staff member of BCFC either in charge at the time, or first notified of, the relevant infringement. Allegations of gross misconduct or more serious breaches of the Academy Code will be subject to investigation by the JNPL Football Operations Manager. An interview with the player concerned will be undertaken in the presence of a third party (recording officer A parent/guardian may attend the relevant interview to assist the player and to protect the player's interests. Details of the interview will be recorded in writing and may be videoed. Any action taken as a result of the allegation will be determined by the Head of Football and Junior Football Operations Coordinator and notified to the player (and their parent/guardian) in writing (Disciplinary Advisory Notice

Examples of minor infringements could include (but are not limited to): Unreliability and bad time keeping Poor attitude and social interaction Inappropriate language or behaviour Appropriate sanctions may include:

A verbal warning followed by a written warning for subsequent minor offences. Examples of Gross Misconduct could include (but are not limited to):

Violent behaviour, bullying and harassment Consistent minor infringements

Serious unsporting behaviour (including bullying, racism, discriminatory conduct Wilful damage of property and equipment. Inappropriate behaviour detrimental to the image of the Club. Remark or media (including social media) statements detrimental to the image of the

Inappropriate behaviour and standards at school.

Appropriate sanctions may include: Suspension from the Academy

Permanent expulsion/termination of the Player Agreement

GREVIANCE PROCEDURE STEP GUIDE

2. Player and parent contacted

4.Player and parents/guardians notified of the outcome of the Club's review, within 10

days of the interview (Disciplinary Advisory Notice) 5. Should any player be dissatisfied with the action taken against them then, an appeal can be submitted in writing to the club within 10 Business Days of receipt of the Disciplinary Advisory Notice (Appeals Notice) 6. If a player lodges an Appeals Notice, then the Club will convene a hearing within a further 10 Business Days (Appeals Hearing) 7. Within 10 Business Days of the date of any Appeals Hearing, the Club will advise the player and their parent/guardian in writing of the outcome of the Appeals Hearing. 8. The decision made by the Club following an Appeals Hearing will be final and binding.

14. TRAINING COMPENSATION AND SOLIDARITY

Under FIFA Statutes, Ballarat City FC is entitled to claim training compensation and exercise the solidarity mechanism on the basis of the training it will provide to the player under the Player Agreement. This relates to all players over 12 years of age. In principle, the following will be applied: Players released from the Academy by Ballarat City FC Training compensation waived Players leaving the programme against our wishes BCFC retain the right to pursue a training compensation claim. Each case will be considered separately based upon The club they are joining The future potential of the player The training time the club has put into the player

Justin Angeleski - JNPL Operations Manager E DOF@ballaratcityfc.com.au

Lee Stevens - Football Operations E DOF@ballaratcityfc.com.au Sarah Hodge - Fees & Payments

E accounts@ballaratcityfc.com.au

BCFC Board Contact - Michelle Harris

16. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PLAYER AND PARENT/GUARDIAN

The player and their parent/guardian acknowledge they have read, understood and agree with the terms and conditions set out in this Information Pack. The player and each of their parents/guardians acknowledge that (please tick each box):

The player has been advised to obtain adequate private health insurance (and obtain independent advice from an insurer as to the cover currently afforded to, or required by, the player to ensure the player is covered for all health matters referred to in item Part B of Section 9 of this Information Pack (together with any other potential health cover required having regard to the specific circumstances of the player

The parent/guardian accepts responsibility for any costs (including ambulance transportation) incurred as a result of any health or medical treatment of the player (regardless of whether covered by the player's private health insurance of otherwise

I consent to the player receiving any emergency medical treatment (including without limitation, ambulance transportation), which is considered by BCFC to be advisable or deemed reasonable before, during or after any training session, matches or other Club activity forming part of the Academy Program (and indemnify BCFC in respect of such costs and expenses

I consent to the manner in which BCFC will collect and use the personal information (including health information) about the player.

The player and their parent/guardian acknowledge they have read and understand the Volunteering Policy and wish to OPT OUT. We authorize the Club to invoice the cost of $330 in addition to the Academy Fee of $2420, and confirm payment is due with the acceptance deposit of $400 by 18 November 2023

The player and each of their parents/guardians must comply with the terms set out in this Information Pack (including the Code of Conduct), and any failure to comply may result in termination of the player's participation in the Academy Program.