Below is an example of Team Rules that can be used by a Footy coach who is dealing with players that are new to the game.
1. Use your Voice. If your legs can’t get there, make sure your voice can. You are always involved in the play, even if you don’t have the ball.
2. Catch the Ball. Focus on catching the ball before executing the skill. Catches win matches.
3. Demand the Footy. You are one of many players on the field who want the ball. If you want it, make yourself heard. Don’t ask for the footy, demand it!
4. Be Strong on the Mark. If a free kick is paid against you, or if your opponent takes a mark, don’t hang your head or walk away. Immediately take your position on the mark, hands up, and be ready to go if your opponent plays on.
5. Push Back from the Mark. If you take a mark, or are awarded a free kick, push back quickly (at least 10 metres) from the person standing on the mark. This will give you enough space to kick, handball or run.
6. No U-turns. If a teammate is in a better position than you, give them the ball.
7. Look Outside the Corridor. Don’t just kick the ball straight down the field. Don’t forget to look to your left and right. Footy is a 360 game – kick to a teammate in space.
8. Lead into Space. When your teammate kicks the ball in after a missed goal, give them an option to kick to. Run hard into space.
9. Attack the Footy. Don’t sit back and wait for the ball to come to you. Attack the ball at all times – your teammates will back you up.
10. Know the Rules. You have a duty of care to other players, and they also have a duty of care to you. Play hard but play fair.
