Player-Club Contract

We provide a regenerative, health-focused football environment, offering the best quality Vets football for all players over 35 in the UK.

We also raise funds:

The money we generate primarily supports Lewes FC, helping the club become a beacon for equality in football.
We are developing the Lewes Community Football Fund to support Lewes FC community clubs and improve 3G facilities.
We also contribute to charitable causes.

By playing at this club, I agree to support this approach to community football.

By playing at Lewes FC Vets, I sign up to these values and consent to be held accountable for my behaviour by fellow club members.

Lewes FC Vets does not tolerate violence of any kind, including:

Gender-based violence
Sexual harassment
Prostitution or human trafficking
Violence motivated by prejudice of any kind
Football is a contact sport, but I understand that assault or abuse—on or off the pitch—will not be tolerated at any club activity. If allegations arise, I will notify the club.

As a Lewes FC player, I also agree to abide by:

Lewes FC’s policies and procedures
Lewes Football Foundation’s policies and procedures
Sussex FA’s Safeguarding Policy & Code of Conduct
Sessions take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and matches are on Sundays.
This contract also applies to non-members who play in Old Quality League matches, where applicable.

1) Look After Myself & My Well-Being

Warm up before arriving at sessions and matches.
Take responsibility for my body and make long-term health decisions.
Advocate for what I need to play sustainable football.
Acknowledge the physical risks of football – the club is not liable for injuries sustained during play.
Communicate health concerns to facilitators, who may or may not be First Aid trained.

2) Look After My Fellow Players

Play safely – I will stay on my feet (unless a goalkeeper) and avoid unnecessary fouls in sessions that require it (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Old Quality League).
Respect my teammates and opponents – if I feel I have been fouled or treated unfairly, I will communicate my concerns respectfully.
Resolve conflicts maturely – I will talk things through, shake hands, or message after a session if needed.
Recognise the difference between banter and bullying – I will contribute to a culture of kind speech and mutual support.
Let go of my critical voice and respect club disciplinary policies.
Support diversity and inclusion – I will respect all players regardless of gender, sex, race, disability, or other differences.
Help fellow players when I can.

3) Look After My Club

Sign up to Spond & GoCardless to set up my Direct Debit and other payments.
Use Spond responsibly for match and session sign-ups.
Show up on time – I understand that lateness affects everyone’s enjoyment, and I will communicate with the facilitator if I am late or unable to attend.
Retrieve lost balls from outside the 3G pitch when possible.
Wear the correct kit for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays:
Black and yellow tops only (no yellow and black stripes, dark blue, green, or other colours).
Look after borrowed kit and return it in good condition immediately after matches.
Inform the Membership Secretary if I will be injured for more than two months, so my Direct Debit can be paused.
Make myself available for club matches when fit to play, including:

Participate in club traditions, including taking turns reading the club poem at sessions.
Volunteer to support the club when I am able.