Policy & Code of Conduct

Being part of this program requires dedication, discipline, and commitment from players and their families. Please carefully review the following guidelines and expectations.


Program Expectations

Commitment

  • The program runs over 4 terms, starting with trials in September after the FV season.
  • All soccer-related activities must be conducted exclusively through S4S Academy.

Why is this important?

  1. Preventing injury and overtraining: Managing all training under our guidance ensures balanced workload and recovery.
  2. Consistency in development: Mixing methods can confuse players; a unified approach improves individual and team performance.
  3. Best practices: We use proven, age-appropriate training that maximises development and reduces burnout risk.
  4. Streamlined scheduling: Centralising activities avoids conflicts so players are fresh and prepared for matches.

Note: This policy applies strictly to soccer activities. Players may participate in other sports. However, external soccer tournaments, academies, or training sessions outside S4S Academy will not be permitted in 2025.

Training Attendance

Players are required to attend all scheduled training sessions (minimum twice per week).

Communication

Notify the academy via your Team Manager of absences (illness, injury, travel) with as much notice as possible.

Dedication

Success depends on consistent effort and focus during training and games.

Tournaments and Additional Activities

Participation in tournaments is integral to the academy experience and provides opportunities to compete at a high level. Families must commit to making these arrangements work.

To support development, S4S Academy offers additional training both at the club and other locations during the week.

Player Movement Across Academy Teams

At times, Academy players may be asked to participate in matches or training sessions with a different age group or squad.  This may involve 'playing up' into an older team or 'playing across' into another team of the same age group.  These decisions are made at the discretion of Academy leadership and coaching staff, with the intention of supporting individual player development and maintaining balance across Academy teams.

When requested, all players are required to participate, as this forms an essential part of the Academy program.

Training and Match Guidelines

Training Protocols

  • Punctuality: Arrive 15 minutes before each session for proper warm-up.
  • Preparedness: Bring boots, shin pads, and training kit—ready to begin.
  • Respect: Greet coaches upon arrival as a sign of professionalism and respect.
  • Attire: Wear the official academy training kit to all sessions.

Match Day Conduct

  • Arrival: Arrive as directed by your coach, typically 60 minutes before kick-off.
  • Attire: Wear the official club match kit and ensure all gear is ready.

FV league games: Club kit

Tournaments: Indicated by Team Manager prior to the tournament.

Behaviour

Players and parents are expected to maintain respect for referees, opponents, and team members at all times.

Parental Support

  • Encourage and support your child’s effort and improvement.
  • Refrain from coaching from the sidelines during training or games.
  • Be a positive role model and demonstrate good sporting conduct.

Communication Channels

The Academy teams will primarily use WhatsApp Community chat for most communications, with dedicated apps for gametime and attendance management. Club-based information will be communicated by email.

Fees and Financial Information

  • Academy Fee
  • Club Registration Fee

All academy positions are conditional on receipt of Club Registration & S4S Academy Fee payments. See offer email for details.

Tournament Fees: Additional fees apply for tournaments. Families will be notified in advance; fees vary by tournament.

Refund Policy

By accepting a place in an Academy Team, families commit to the full season’s academy coaching fees for the 2025/26 program. Fees remain payable in full regardless of withdrawal before or during the season, except where a refund is approved by the Academy on a case-by-case basis per the Refund Policy.

Requests for refunds must be made in writing to the Academy:

All refunds across Academy registrations are subject to 5% administration fees.

Uniform and Equipment

  • Training Kit: A full black training kit must be purchased.
  • Match Kit: A full match kit must be purchased (see relevant club information).

Player numbers are allocated by the club’s uniform provider.

Uniform/kit requirements will be communicated by the Academy and/or Uniform Coordinators.

Code of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

  • Show respect to coaches, teammates, and opponents.
  • Maintain discipline and professionalism on and off the field.
  • Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

Parent Code of Conduct

  • Encourage your child positively and focus on their development.
  • Refrain from criticising referees, coaches, or players.
  • Support the academy’s mission by fostering a respectful, inclusive environment.

Contact Information

We are excited to have you join us for the 2026 season. Your commitment and enthusiasm will be the foundation of a successful journey with S4S Academy.

Let’s make this season a memorable one!


Download Policy and Code of Conduct

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