Players are the most important people in the sport.  Playing for the team, & for the team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game.  But not winning at any cost – Fair Play & respect for all others in the game is fundamentally important.

This code focuses on players involved in top-class football.  Nevertheless, the key concepts in the Code are valid for players at all levels.

Obligations toward the game

A player should:

1. Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics & stamina.

2. Give maximum effort & strive for the best possible performance during the game, even if his team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.

3. Set a positive example for others, particularly young players & supporters.

4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship & time wasting.

5. Always have regard for the best interest of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion on the game & any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.

6. Not use inappropriate language.

Obligations towards one’s own team

A player should:

1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play & the Laws of the Game to help his own team win.

2. Resist any influence, which might, or might be seen to, bring into question his commitment to the team winning.

Respect for the Laws of the Game & competition rules

A player should:

1. Know & abide by the Laws, rules & spirit of the game, & the competition rules.

2. Accept success & failure, victory & defeat, equally.

3. Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned techniques.

Respect towards opponents

A player should:

1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game.

2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence & rough play, & help injured opponents.

Respect towards the Match Officials

A player should:

1. Accept the decision of the Match Official without protest.

2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official.

3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.

Respect towards Team Officials

A player should:

1. Abide by the instructions of their Coach & Team Officials, provided they do not contradict the spirit of this Code.

2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition.

Obligations towards the Supporters

A player should:

1. Show due respect to the interests of supporters.