The AFL Junior Football Match Policy states “the way modified rules are implemented by coaches and umpire’s impacts play and is critical to setting an appropriate environment. Coaches and umpire education is critical.”
AFL Brisbane Juniors conducted Coaches Meetings for all Junior (Under 6 – 11) and Youth (Under 12 – 17) Coaches after identifying the need to refresh coaches on their roles, responsibilities and, most importantly, the influence they have in providing a quality match day environment for players, umpires, parents and spectators.
There were two major similarities between the meetings; coaches match day behaviour (adhering to their “Coaches Code of Conduct”) and behaviour towards umpires. Both are major factors in why both players and umpires either drop out or stay in the game.
With the junior coaches, there was a major emphasis on what junior football is all about. At the end of the day it’s about the kids getting out and enjoying themselves. The coaches were briefed on why we have modified rules and outlined the phases the participants are exposed to as they move up through the ranks.
The match policy also states “modified rules, when implemented well, achieve two clear outcomes:
- - Increases player involvement which positively impacts children’s perceptions of competence and enjoyment.
- - Creates a better match environment that is more aligned to the actual intent of the game.”
In the Youth space there was a bigger emphasis on competition requirements. The three major points were:
- - Tagging player; why this should not be occurring in junior football.
- - Approaching umpires and influencing umpires.
- - Communication process.
It was fantastic to see over 400 coaches commit their time to developing their coaching, understanding of the Junior Match Policy and competition rules and regulations.
Last Modified on 20/05/2016 15:31