Warning to all teams from OFA handbook

SOCIAL NETWORKING WEBSITES

We are advising you in relation to the use of social networking websites by Participants (players, clubs, referees, etc). We have seen an increase in the number of postings leading to complaints in relation to posting on such sites as Twitter and league message boards. You will appreciate that this is of concern to us and obviously of greater concern to individuals who are the subject of such posting.

We would like to point out that you remind everyone linked with your club – with particular reference to all players – of the following key points;

• All comments on social networking sites may be considered public comment by the Oxfordshire FA and, depending on the club's status, The FA

• Any comments which are improper, bring the game into disrepute or are threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting may lead to disciplinary action against the individual posting, and in the case of message boards, the club or league responsible for moderation.

• Comments about match officials which imply bias, attack the officials integrity or are overly personal in nature are considered improper

• Comments which include a reference to a person's ethnic origin, colour, race, nationality, faith, gender, sexual orientation or disability may be considered aggravating and attract a higher disciplinary sanction

• Re-tweeting another person's posting may lead to disciplinary action if the original comment was improper

• Deleting or apologising publicly for an improper posting, whilst advisable, does not prevent disciplinary action being taken

• An individual is strictly responsible for any posting on his/her account.

• Participants should take every care to ensure that others do not access their account, as the fact that a posting or comment may have been made by a third party will not prevent disciplinary action being taken against the account holder • Participants are required to act in the best interest of the game at all times and should be aware that their postings on social
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networking sites/message boards are likely to be subject to public and media scrutiny.

• Postings/messages between two individuals are considered private but once they can be seen by other parties then they are public.

• Whilst we are conscious that the use of social networking sites/ message boards can be positive we must advise that Participants exercise caution with the content of any postings.

DRUGS

Whilst The FA don't do random drugs tests below step 4 of the National League System, it is still an offence to take drugs to enhance performance at lower levels.

There have been random reports over the last season of teams allegedly smoking substances before, during from the sidelines, and after leaving the pitch. Action can and will be taken against offenders where found proven. We also report any such accusations to Thames Valley Police with details of where teams may be playing and at what dates/times. This is so they can take any legal actions necessary.

DISCRIMINATION

The OFA’s commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability and to encourage equal opportunities.

The OFA, in all its activities, will not discriminate, or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability. The OFA will ensure that it treats people fairly and with respect and that it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy, its activities.

The OFA will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimisation of an individual, which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal. The OFA will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.