Arthur Dunn Cup rules2026-2027
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Definitions and Interpretation
I. In these Rules:
AFA means the Amateur Football Alliance Limited (company no. 3957859).
Club means a club for the time being in membership of the Competition.
Competition means the Arthur Dunn Memorial Cup
Contract Player means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play under a written contract of employment with a Club.
County Association has the same meaning as that set out in the rules of The FA from time to time.
Committee means the committee elected to manage the running of the Competition (consisting of the President, Chairman, Hon. Secretary and not more than two ordinary members).
Ground means the ground on which the Club’s Team(s) plays its Matches.
Home Club means the first-drawn Club in the draw of the Competition.
Hon Secretary means such person (or persons) appointed or elected to carry out the administration of the Competition.
Match means any match played or to be played under the jurisdiction of the Competition and Match(es) shall be construed accordingly.
Match Officials means the referee, the assistant referees and any fourth official appointed to a Cup Match.
Non-Contract Player means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play for a Club but has not entered into a written contract of employment.
Participant shall have the same meaning as that set out in the rules of The FA from time to time and Participants shall be construed accordingly.
Player means any Contract Player, Non-Contract Player, Scholarship Player or other player who plays or who is eligible to play for a Club or is subject to any suspension from playing.
Referees' Appointments Officer means such person (or persons) appointed or elected to carry out the appointment of Match Officials for the Competition.
Rules means these rules under which the Competition is administered.
Season means the period between the date on which the first competitive fixture in the Competition is played each year until the date on which the last competitive fixture in the Competition is played.
Schedule means the Schedule of Fees and Fines relating to the Competition.
Scholarship means a Scholarship as set out in Rule C3(a)(i) of the rules of The FA.
School Ground means a grass (or artificial 3G) pitch at the Home Club’s School
The FA means The Football Association Limited
Competition Portal means the FA’s Competition Portal and the procedures for the operation thereof as determined by The FA from time to time.
II. written or in writing means the representation or reproduction of words or symbols or other information in a visible form by any method or combination of methods, whether sent or supplied in electronic form or otherwise.
III. Unless stated otherwise, terms referring to natural persons are applicable to both genders. Any term in the singular applies to the plural and vice-versa.
AFA means the Amateur Football Alliance Limited (company no. 3957859).
Club means a club for the time being in membership of the Competition.
Competition means the Arthur Dunn Memorial Cup
Contract Player means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play under a written contract of employment with a Club.
County Association has the same meaning as that set out in the rules of The FA from time to time.
Committee means the committee elected to manage the running of the Competition (consisting of the President, Chairman, Hon. Secretary and not more than two ordinary members).
Ground means the ground on which the Club’s Team(s) plays its Matches.
Home Club means the first-drawn Club in the draw of the Competition.
Hon Secretary means such person (or persons) appointed or elected to carry out the administration of the Competition.
Match means any match played or to be played under the jurisdiction of the Competition and Match(es) shall be construed accordingly.
Match Officials means the referee, the assistant referees and any fourth official appointed to a Cup Match.
Non-Contract Player means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play for a Club but has not entered into a written contract of employment.
Participant shall have the same meaning as that set out in the rules of The FA from time to time and Participants shall be construed accordingly.
Player means any Contract Player, Non-Contract Player, Scholarship Player or other player who plays or who is eligible to play for a Club or is subject to any suspension from playing.
Referees' Appointments Officer means such person (or persons) appointed or elected to carry out the appointment of Match Officials for the Competition.
Rules means these rules under which the Competition is administered.
Season means the period between the date on which the first competitive fixture in the Competition is played each year until the date on which the last competitive fixture in the Competition is played.
Schedule means the Schedule of Fees and Fines relating to the Competition.
Scholarship means a Scholarship as set out in Rule C3(a)(i) of the rules of The FA.
School Ground means a grass (or artificial 3G) pitch at the Home Club’s School
The FA means The Football Association Limited
Competition Portal means the FA’s Competition Portal and the procedures for the operation thereof as determined by The FA from time to time.
II. written or in writing means the representation or reproduction of words or symbols or other information in a visible form by any method or combination of methods, whether sent or supplied in electronic form or otherwise.
III. Unless stated otherwise, terms referring to natural persons are applicable to both genders. Any term in the singular applies to the plural and vice-versa.
A. Name, Constitution
1. The Competition is named the Arthur Dunn Challenge Cup and shall be known as the Arthur Dunn Cup and shall seek sanction annually from the AFA (or any other County Association as the Committee deems appropriate).
B. Custody of the Trophy
2. The President, Chairman and Hon. Secretary shall be the legal owners of the Arthur Dunn Cup trophy in trust for the Committee. The trophy shall remain the sole property of the Committee. The trophy shall never become the absolute property of any one Club and in the event of the Competition’s dissolution, it shall become the property of the donors.
3. The winning Club shall be responsible for the custody of the trophy and responsible for the engraving (which must be carried out by a reputable firm of engravers). On or before 1st April in the year following, the trophy shall be returned in a presentable condition to such person/venue as the Committee directs. Failure to return the trophy as directed, in time and condition, shall result in a daily fine in accordance with the Schedule. The Committee reserves the right to request the return of the trophy at any time by giving seven days’ written notice.
4. Should the trophy be lost or damaged whilst in the custody of a Club, the Club shall forthwith report this to the Committee and may have to refund to the Committee the cost of replacement or complete repair.
The Committee may additionally impose such other penalty as it deems appropriate.
5. The following agreement shall be signed and returned to the Hon. Secretary on behalf of the winners of every trophy prior to (or no later than 3 days after) their taking custody of the trophy:
“We (A) (name) and (B) (name), the Chairman and Secretary of .Old XXXX (Club), as members for and on behalf of the Club, having been declared winners of the Arthur Dunn Memorial Cup (Trophy), and it having been delivered to us by the Arthur Dunn Cup Committee (Committee), do jointly and severally agree on behalf of the Club to return the Trophy to the Hon. Secretary on or before the first day of [April] 202[•] or on such date if directed in writing by the Committee. If the Trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our care, we agree to refund to the Committee the full amount of its current value or the full cost of its thorough repair”.
6. If a Club ceases to exist after winning the Competition, the trophy will be immediately returned to the Hon. Secretary.
3. The winning Club shall be responsible for the custody of the trophy and responsible for the engraving (which must be carried out by a reputable firm of engravers). On or before 1st April in the year following, the trophy shall be returned in a presentable condition to such person/venue as the Committee directs. Failure to return the trophy as directed, in time and condition, shall result in a daily fine in accordance with the Schedule. The Committee reserves the right to request the return of the trophy at any time by giving seven days’ written notice.
4. Should the trophy be lost or damaged whilst in the custody of a Club, the Club shall forthwith report this to the Committee and may have to refund to the Committee the cost of replacement or complete repair.
The Committee may additionally impose such other penalty as it deems appropriate.
5. The following agreement shall be signed and returned to the Hon. Secretary on behalf of the winners of every trophy prior to (or no later than 3 days after) their taking custody of the trophy:
“We (A) (name) and (B) (name), the Chairman and Secretary of .Old XXXX (Club), as members for and on behalf of the Club, having been declared winners of the Arthur Dunn Memorial Cup (Trophy), and it having been delivered to us by the Arthur Dunn Cup Committee (Committee), do jointly and severally agree on behalf of the Club to return the Trophy to the Hon. Secretary on or before the first day of [April] 202[•] or on such date if directed in writing by the Committee. If the Trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our care, we agree to refund to the Committee the full amount of its current value or the full cost of its thorough repair”.
6. If a Club ceases to exist after winning the Competition, the trophy will be immediately returned to the Hon. Secretary.
C. Annual Invitation, Entry Fee
7. Each Club shall be invited by the Hon. Secretary before the end of April preceding the forthcoming Season to participate in the Competition and acceptance shall be notified to the Hon. Secretary on or before June 1st preceding such Season. Admission shall be subject to approval at the Annual General Meeting.
8. As entry to the Competition is only by annual invitation, Clubs should be aware that the Committee is committed to upholding and observing the best traditions of sportsmanship, good behaviour and hospitality that have been in place since the Competition’s inception. It is the Committee’s firm belief that respect, good sportsmanship, fair play and consideration by/to Players, Match Officials and spectators alike must remain at the heart of the Competition. Consequently, the Committee is empowered (at any stage of the Competition) to rescind its annual invitation to any Club or Participant(s) whose inclusion or participation is (in the Committee’s reasonable opinion) deemed not to be beneficial to the Competition.
Each Club is reminded that (i) it is always responsible for the conduct of its Participant(s), officials and spectators and (ii) the Committee’s decision to rescind its annual invitation will not be dependent on the outcome of any misconduct hearings which may be pending or the consequent result of any disciplinary hearings.
9. The Entry Fee shall be such sum as the Committee shall decide annually and shall be payable on or before 1 October in each Season. A Club shall not be permitted to participate in the Competition until the Entry Fee has been settled in full.
8. As entry to the Competition is only by annual invitation, Clubs should be aware that the Committee is committed to upholding and observing the best traditions of sportsmanship, good behaviour and hospitality that have been in place since the Competition’s inception. It is the Committee’s firm belief that respect, good sportsmanship, fair play and consideration by/to Players, Match Officials and spectators alike must remain at the heart of the Competition. Consequently, the Committee is empowered (at any stage of the Competition) to rescind its annual invitation to any Club or Participant(s) whose inclusion or participation is (in the Committee’s reasonable opinion) deemed not to be beneficial to the Competition.
Each Club is reminded that (i) it is always responsible for the conduct of its Participant(s), officials and spectators and (ii) the Committee’s decision to rescind its annual invitation will not be dependent on the outcome of any misconduct hearings which may be pending or the consequent result of any disciplinary hearings.
9. The Entry Fee shall be such sum as the Committee shall decide annually and shall be payable on or before 1 October in each Season. A Club shall not be permitted to participate in the Competition until the Entry Fee has been settled in full.
D. Eligibility of Clubs and Players
10. The Competition shall be open to such Clubs (who must be affiliated to a County Association prior to participation in the Competition) as the Committee shall decide to invite on an annual basis, and whose teams shall consist exclusively of former pupils of an Independent School who:-
12. Every Player must be a registered playing member of the Club for whom he plays (and been registered as such by the Club on The FA’s Full Time system, Competition Portal or in such other manner permitted by the League in which the Club participates) for at least 7 days prior to the date originally arranged for the Match.
13. No Player may ever play for more than one Club in the Competition during his lifetime.
14. Each Club must keep a list of the Players it registers and a record of all Matches in which those Players have participated on Competition Portal/The FA’s Full-Time system and shall produce such records upon demand by the Committee. Any Club failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule and, shall, if the Club repeatedly fails to comply and the Committee deems such action is warranted, have its annual invitation rescinded. For the avoidance of doubt, it is not necessary that the breach of this Rule be brought to the Committee’s attention by another competing Club.
15. Contract Players are permitted in the Competition provided their club has allowed the Player to participate in the Match.
16. In order to be eligible for the semi-finals and Finals of the Competition, a Player must be a registered playing member of the Team for whom he plays (and been registered as such by the Club on Full Time, Competition Portal or in such other manner permitted by the League in which the Club participates) for at least 28 days prior to the date originally arranged for the semi-finals and Finals.
17. It is always the responsibility of each Club to comply with the eligibility rules. If the Committee has any doubt as to the qualification of any Player, it is empowered to call upon the Club to prove that they are qualified according to these Rules. Failing a satisfactory explanation being given to the Committee, the Committee shall be empowered to disqualify the Player, remove the Club from the Competition, and impose such other penalty as it thinks fit.
18. Any Club or Player who is subject to any disciplinary suspension by any League, County Association or the FA or any other recognised disciplinary body shall not be eligible to play in any Match until that suspension has expired.
19. The Committee’s decision on eligibility issues shall be final and binding on all Clubs.
- were full-time academic students of schools situated exclusively in the United Kingdom for a minimum period of six (6) consecutive academic school terms.
- have permanently finished their secondary school education and reached a minimum age of 17.
12. Every Player must be a registered playing member of the Club for whom he plays (and been registered as such by the Club on The FA’s Full Time system, Competition Portal or in such other manner permitted by the League in which the Club participates) for at least 7 days prior to the date originally arranged for the Match.
13. No Player may ever play for more than one Club in the Competition during his lifetime.
14. Each Club must keep a list of the Players it registers and a record of all Matches in which those Players have participated on Competition Portal/The FA’s Full-Time system and shall produce such records upon demand by the Committee. Any Club failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule and, shall, if the Club repeatedly fails to comply and the Committee deems such action is warranted, have its annual invitation rescinded. For the avoidance of doubt, it is not necessary that the breach of this Rule be brought to the Committee’s attention by another competing Club.
15. Contract Players are permitted in the Competition provided their club has allowed the Player to participate in the Match.
16. In order to be eligible for the semi-finals and Finals of the Competition, a Player must be a registered playing member of the Team for whom he plays (and been registered as such by the Club on Full Time, Competition Portal or in such other manner permitted by the League in which the Club participates) for at least 28 days prior to the date originally arranged for the semi-finals and Finals.
17. It is always the responsibility of each Club to comply with the eligibility rules. If the Committee has any doubt as to the qualification of any Player, it is empowered to call upon the Club to prove that they are qualified according to these Rules. Failing a satisfactory explanation being given to the Committee, the Committee shall be empowered to disqualify the Player, remove the Club from the Competition, and impose such other penalty as it thinks fit.
18. Any Club or Player who is subject to any disciplinary suspension by any League, County Association or the FA or any other recognised disciplinary body shall not be eligible to play in any Match until that suspension has expired.
19. The Committee’s decision on eligibility issues shall be final and binding on all Clubs.
E. Officers and Management
20. The control, management and organisation of the Competition shall be vested in the Committee. The quorum shall consist of the Hon. Secretary and one other Officer or ordinary member of the Committee.
21. The President, Chairman, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer and ordinary Committee members shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and shall be appointed for a period to be determined by the remaining members of the Committee. Vice-Presidents shall be elected for life at the Annual General Meeting.
22. On an annual basis and by rotation, one member of the Committee shall retire from their position. That member of the Committee may be re-elected by the Committee, taking into account the availability of alternative new members of the Committee and the requirements of the Committee.
23. The Committee is empowered to fill any vacancy in their number that may occur during the year, subject to confirmation at the next Annual General Meeting.
24. For all alleged breaches of a Rule the Committee shall (if it deems appropriate) issue a formal written charge to the Club concerned and the Club charged shall be given 3 days from the date of notification of the charge to reply. Thereafter, the Committee is empowered to take such actions and impose such sanctions as it sees fit after receipt of the representations from the charged Club.
21. The President, Chairman, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer and ordinary Committee members shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting, and shall be appointed for a period to be determined by the remaining members of the Committee. Vice-Presidents shall be elected for life at the Annual General Meeting.
22. On an annual basis and by rotation, one member of the Committee shall retire from their position. That member of the Committee may be re-elected by the Committee, taking into account the availability of alternative new members of the Committee and the requirements of the Committee.
23. The Committee is empowered to fill any vacancy in their number that may occur during the year, subject to confirmation at the next Annual General Meeting.
24. For all alleged breaches of a Rule the Committee shall (if it deems appropriate) issue a formal written charge to the Club concerned and the Club charged shall be given 3 days from the date of notification of the charge to reply. Thereafter, the Committee is empowered to take such actions and impose such sanctions as it sees fit after receipt of the representations from the charged Club.
F. General Meetings, Annual General Meeting
25. Upon receipt of a request with a resolution in writing from 24 or more Clubs, the Hon. Secretary shall call a General Meeting, to be held within three weeks from the receipt of such requisition. At such meeting, any decision of the Committee may be reversed or amended by a 75% majority of those Clubs present.
26. The Annual General Meeting shall be held not later than 31st July in each year, of which 10 days’ written notice shall be given to Clubs by the Hon. Secretary. Each Club is required to attend. Any Club who fails to attend the Annual General Meeting without a satisfactory explanation being provided at least 7 days in advance shall be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule. Each Club present at such meeting shall be entitled to one vote.
26. The Annual General Meeting shall be held not later than 31st July in each year, of which 10 days’ written notice shall be given to Clubs by the Hon. Secretary. Each Club is required to attend. Any Club who fails to attend the Annual General Meeting without a satisfactory explanation being provided at least 7 days in advance shall be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule. Each Club present at such meeting shall be entitled to one vote.
G. Arrangement of Matches
27. The draw for (any preliminary rounds and) the first and second rounds of the Competition will be made at the Annual General Meeting. The dates of the first and second rounds of the Competition shall be settled at (or shortly after) the Annual General Meeting by the Hon. Secretary and the Matches must be played on or before those dates unless an alternative date has been agreed by the Hon. Secretary (at his absolute discretion).
28. Subsequent rounds will be drawn at later Meetings of the Committee. The dates of these meeting and the subsequent rounds shall be fixed and notified to the Clubs by the Hon. Secretary. Matches must be played on or before those dates unless an alternative date has been agreed by the Hon. Secretary (at his absolute discretion).
29. Requests for closed dates with Leagues will not apply to Matches in the Competition unless 8 weeks’ advance notice is given to the Hon. Secretary. Any Club that whose Match is brought forward under this Rule must notify its League’s Match/Fixture Secretary of the same.
30. The Committee may grant exemptions (byes) to Clubs in the early rounds at its absolute discretion. If this is proposed, priority shall be given to the previous Season’s finalists and semi-finalists and thereafter such other Clubs as the Committee shall decide at its sole discretion.
28. Subsequent rounds will be drawn at later Meetings of the Committee. The dates of these meeting and the subsequent rounds shall be fixed and notified to the Clubs by the Hon. Secretary. Matches must be played on or before those dates unless an alternative date has been agreed by the Hon. Secretary (at his absolute discretion).
29. Requests for closed dates with Leagues will not apply to Matches in the Competition unless 8 weeks’ advance notice is given to the Hon. Secretary. Any Club that whose Match is brought forward under this Rule must notify its League’s Match/Fixture Secretary of the same.
30. The Committee may grant exemptions (byes) to Clubs in the early rounds at its absolute discretion. If this is proposed, priority shall be given to the previous Season’s finalists and semi-finalists and thereafter such other Clubs as the Committee shall decide at its sole discretion.
H. Venue for Matches in the Competition
31. Unless mutually agreed and with the written consent of the Hon. Secretary, the Home Club shall have the choice of Ground. The Home Club shall be required to secure a 3G Pitch in the event that the weather is, or is deemed to be, inclement on the date of the Match.
32. Unless the Committee has given its prior written consent, all Matches in the Competition must be played on the School Ground.
33. If the Home Club’s School Ground is unavailable; and the Committee has determined the Home Club’s proposed alternative ground is unsuitable for Matches in the Competition, the Home Club shall play the Match on a Ground chosen by the Committee (which may include the School Ground of the away Club) or a neutral venue.
34. In the case of re-played Matches, the Club not having had the choice of Ground in the first instance shall have the choice of ground for the re-played Match (unless the Committee has directed that the Match should take place at another Ground pursuant to Rule 33).
35. Subject to the Committee being notified and having given its prior written consent, artificial Football (3G) Pitches are permitted in the Competition providing they meet the required performance standards and are listed on the FA’s Register of 3G Football Turf Pitches. To meet the criteria a 3G Pitch must pass a test every three years as defined in the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf. If requested, a Club shall provide written confirmation of the same to the Hon. Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
36. If a Match is taking place on a 3G pitch, the Home Club must advise the visiting Club and Match Officials of footwear requirements and any limitations or recommendations regarding the type of boot or stud that may be used on the surface as well as any time constraints which may affect the duration of the Match when notifying and confirming match arrangements in accordance with Rule 38. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
37. All Matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as determined by the International Football Association Board.
32. Unless the Committee has given its prior written consent, all Matches in the Competition must be played on the School Ground.
33. If the Home Club’s School Ground is unavailable; and the Committee has determined the Home Club’s proposed alternative ground is unsuitable for Matches in the Competition, the Home Club shall play the Match on a Ground chosen by the Committee (which may include the School Ground of the away Club) or a neutral venue.
34. In the case of re-played Matches, the Club not having had the choice of Ground in the first instance shall have the choice of ground for the re-played Match (unless the Committee has directed that the Match should take place at another Ground pursuant to Rule 33).
35. Subject to the Committee being notified and having given its prior written consent, artificial Football (3G) Pitches are permitted in the Competition providing they meet the required performance standards and are listed on the FA’s Register of 3G Football Turf Pitches. To meet the criteria a 3G Pitch must pass a test every three years as defined in the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf. If requested, a Club shall provide written confirmation of the same to the Hon. Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
36. If a Match is taking place on a 3G pitch, the Home Club must advise the visiting Club and Match Officials of footwear requirements and any limitations or recommendations regarding the type of boot or stud that may be used on the surface as well as any time constraints which may affect the duration of the Match when notifying and confirming match arrangements in accordance with Rule 38. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
37. All Matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as determined by the International Football Association Board.
I. Notification of Match Details
38. The Home Club must, at least 6 clear days prior to the date arranged for the Match, contact their opponents and the Match Officials by phone, fax or email (contact via SMS/text messaging/social media/relying solely on Competition Portalor The FA Full Time system is not acceptable) and ensure that they are in confirmed receipt of:
40. The Home Club shall welcome the visiting Club and Match Officials to the Ground and show them the changing accommodation and Ground and (re)confirm the post-Match hospitality venue. The Home Club shall act as hosts whilst the visiting Club and Match Officials are at the Ground and at the post-Match hospitality venue.
41. Subject to any mandatory FA guidance or restrictions in place as a result of the Coronavirus Act 2020, the Home Club shall provide separate and adequate dressing rooms, washing and toilet facilities for the visiting Club and Match Officials. It shall also be a responsibility of Home Clubs to ensure that the dressing rooms for its opponents and Match Officials are locked and secure for the duration of the Match.
- the Ground’s location.
- the means of access to the Ground (including any bespoke parking arrangements that may be in place).
- any time constraints which may affect the kick off or duration of the Match.
- their Club colours (if there is, or appears to be, a clash of colours, the Home Club shall change as set out in Rule 49).
- the location for post-Match hospitality.
- confirmation of the contact details of its Covid-19 officer and the name of the individual who will be providing the pre-Match briefing to all Participants (if this is not the same person);
- its completed risk assessment form (to be supplied to the away Club);
40. The Home Club shall welcome the visiting Club and Match Officials to the Ground and show them the changing accommodation and Ground and (re)confirm the post-Match hospitality venue. The Home Club shall act as hosts whilst the visiting Club and Match Officials are at the Ground and at the post-Match hospitality venue.
41. Subject to any mandatory FA guidance or restrictions in place as a result of the Coronavirus Act 2020, the Home Club shall provide separate and adequate dressing rooms, washing and toilet facilities for the visiting Club and Match Officials. It shall also be a responsibility of Home Clubs to ensure that the dressing rooms for its opponents and Match Officials are locked and secure for the duration of the Match.
J. Duration of Play
42. The duration of each Match shall be 90 minutes consisting of 2 equal halves of 45 minutes. The half time interval shall be 10 minutes, which may only be altered with the Referee’s consent.
43. The Referee shall allow for time wasted or lost through accident or other cause. The Referee is the sole judge of allowance of time and his decision on this matter shall be final and not subject to appeal or protest.
44. If the score is level at the end of normal time, then extra time of 30 minutes (15 minutes each half) shall be played.
45. If the score is level at the end of extra time, the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the procedure adopted by the International Football Association Board.
46. Notwithstanding Rules 44 and 45, the Referee is entitled (at their sole discretion) to reduce normal time to 60 minutes, extra time to 20 minutes or to dispense with extra-time altogether and/or go straight to penalties at the end of normal time if the prevailing conditions (which includes the allotted time for the hire arrangement of the Ground) make this necessary to obtain a decision.
47. The Committee is empowered to vary Rule 44 at any time during the course of the Competition if it considers such action appropriate and beneficial to the progress and running of the Competition.
43. The Referee shall allow for time wasted or lost through accident or other cause. The Referee is the sole judge of allowance of time and his decision on this matter shall be final and not subject to appeal or protest.
44. If the score is level at the end of normal time, then extra time of 30 minutes (15 minutes each half) shall be played.
45. If the score is level at the end of extra time, the winner shall be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the procedure adopted by the International Football Association Board.
46. Notwithstanding Rules 44 and 45, the Referee is entitled (at their sole discretion) to reduce normal time to 60 minutes, extra time to 20 minutes or to dispense with extra-time altogether and/or go straight to penalties at the end of normal time if the prevailing conditions (which includes the allotted time for the hire arrangement of the Ground) make this necessary to obtain a decision.
47. The Committee is empowered to vary Rule 44 at any time during the course of the Competition if it considers such action appropriate and beneficial to the progress and running of the Competition.
K. Shortfall
48. In accordance with the Laws of the Game, the minimum number of Players that will constitute a Club for a Match is seven (7). In the event of a Club not being ready at the appointed time, provided 7 or more of its Players are available, the Referee shall order the Match to proceed as soon as he sees fit. If it is not possible to commence the game within 30 minutes of the scheduled kick off time, the Referee has the right to refuse to officiate and will be entitled to the Match fee from the Home Club. Any Club not able to commence a Match within 30 minutes of the scheduled kick off time is liable to such action as the Committee considers appropriate (including rescission of its annual invitation).
L. Club Colours, Advertising, Match Balls
49. If, in the opinion of the Hon. Secretary (or the Referee on the day of the Match), the two Clubs have the
same or similar colours, the Home Club shall change to a non-conflicting colour unless mutual arrangements are made to the contrary. Should a Home Club delay the scheduled time of kick off for a Competition Match by not having a change of colours it will be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
In the event of a Match being played on a neutral Ground, the Club drawn first shall have the choice of colours.
50. Players' shirts must be uniquely numbered and the numbers must correspond exactly with the Club’s (complete, legible and accurate and written in block capitals) team-sheet which must be handed to the Referee at least 20 minutes before the Match (or delivered at such time as prescribed by the Hon. Secretary from time to time). Referees may not prevent Players from playing in shirts without numbers but should note the facts on their report card. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
51. Any Club not having uniquely numbered shirts or who alters its selection or numbering after the team sheet has been provided to the Referee without providing the notification required in Rule 52 will be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
52. A Player who is named on the team sheet may be replaced if he is injured warming up after the team sheet has been handed to the Referee provided the alteration has been formally notified to the Referee and made on a replacement team sheet before the commencement of the Match. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
53. There must be no change of numbers during the Match except on a change of goalkeeper or where a Player has been instructed by the Referee to change his shirt due to blood injury. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be reported by the Referee and are liable to be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
54. No Player, including the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to wear black or very dark shirts. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
55. Goalkeepers must wear colours that distinguish them from the other Players and the Match Officials.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
56. The captain of each Club shall wear a distinguishing armband to indicate his status and has a responsibility to offer support to the Match Officials in the on-field discipline of their Players. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
57. Advertising which fully complies with current FA Regulations may be worn on Players' clothing.
58. The Home Club must provide to the Referee for his approval prior to kick-off of the Match at least three (3) size 5 footballs that conform to the Laws of the Game. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
same or similar colours, the Home Club shall change to a non-conflicting colour unless mutual arrangements are made to the contrary. Should a Home Club delay the scheduled time of kick off for a Competition Match by not having a change of colours it will be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
In the event of a Match being played on a neutral Ground, the Club drawn first shall have the choice of colours.
50. Players' shirts must be uniquely numbered and the numbers must correspond exactly with the Club’s (complete, legible and accurate and written in block capitals) team-sheet which must be handed to the Referee at least 20 minutes before the Match (or delivered at such time as prescribed by the Hon. Secretary from time to time). Referees may not prevent Players from playing in shirts without numbers but should note the facts on their report card. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
51. Any Club not having uniquely numbered shirts or who alters its selection or numbering after the team sheet has been provided to the Referee without providing the notification required in Rule 52 will be liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
52. A Player who is named on the team sheet may be replaced if he is injured warming up after the team sheet has been handed to the Referee provided the alteration has been formally notified to the Referee and made on a replacement team sheet before the commencement of the Match. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
53. There must be no change of numbers during the Match except on a change of goalkeeper or where a Player has been instructed by the Referee to change his shirt due to blood injury. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be reported by the Referee and are liable to be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
54. No Player, including the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to wear black or very dark shirts. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
55. Goalkeepers must wear colours that distinguish them from the other Players and the Match Officials.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
56. The captain of each Club shall wear a distinguishing armband to indicate his status and has a responsibility to offer support to the Match Officials in the on-field discipline of their Players. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
57. Advertising which fully complies with current FA Regulations may be worn on Players' clothing.
58. The Home Club must provide to the Referee for his approval prior to kick-off of the Match at least three (3) size 5 footballs that conform to the Laws of the Game. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
M. Substitutes, Sin-Bins
59. A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game nominate and use up to 3 substitutes at any time in a Match, except to replace a Player who has been suspended from the game by the Referee after play has commenced.
60. The names of the substitutes must be listed on the team-sheet handed to the Referee at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled kick-off time. Any Player or substitute not named on the team-sheet shall not be allowed to participate in the Match.
61. From the quarter-finals onwards, Clubs may nominate up to 5 substitute players, of whom 3 may be used at any time during a Match except to replace a player who has been suspended from the game by the Referee after play has commenced. The names of the five nominated substitutes must be provided to the Match Officials 20 minutes before the start of the match. If the names of the nominated substitutes are not provided to the Match Officials 20 minutes before the start of the match, he/they shall not permitted to participate in the Match. If these Matches are level after 90 minutes, both Clubs are allowed to field a fourth substitute in extra time.
62. In all Matches, the principle of “repeated/roll-on, roll-off substitutes” shall not be used.
63. In all Matches, temporary dismissals (sin bins) will be imposed by Referees for all cautions for dissent in accordance with the guidelines issued under the FA Pilot scheme.
60. The names of the substitutes must be listed on the team-sheet handed to the Referee at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled kick-off time. Any Player or substitute not named on the team-sheet shall not be allowed to participate in the Match.
61. From the quarter-finals onwards, Clubs may nominate up to 5 substitute players, of whom 3 may be used at any time during a Match except to replace a player who has been suspended from the game by the Referee after play has commenced. The names of the five nominated substitutes must be provided to the Match Officials 20 minutes before the start of the match. If the names of the nominated substitutes are not provided to the Match Officials 20 minutes before the start of the match, he/they shall not permitted to participate in the Match. If these Matches are level after 90 minutes, both Clubs are allowed to field a fourth substitute in extra time.
62. In all Matches, the principle of “repeated/roll-on, roll-off substitutes” shall not be used.
63. In all Matches, temporary dismissals (sin bins) will be imposed by Referees for all cautions for dissent in accordance with the guidelines issued under the FA Pilot scheme.
N. Technical Areas and Dug-outs, First-Aid
64. When a Match is played at a Ground where there are benches and technical areas, the number of Players and Club officials in the technical area must not exceed 8 per Club. Only named substitute Players,
managers, coaching and medical staff shall be permitted in the technical area. No person under 16 years of age shall be permitted in the technical area. Misconduct by occupants of the technical area will be reported by the Referee to the Committee, who shall be empowered to impose such sanctions as it deems fit.
65. In Matches where dug-outs are not provided and a technical area not defined, the Coach/Manager may convey tactical instructions to Players during the match, however the Coach/Manager must always conduct themselves in a responsible manner. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
66. In Matches where assistant referees are appointed, or when instructed by the Committee, Clubs must provide barriers or roping to ensure there is no encroaching on the field of play or the impeding of the assistant referees. If barriers or roping are not available, it is the Home Club’s duty to ensure that substitute
Players, officials and spectators must not encroach on the field of play or impede the assistant referees in carrying out their duties.
67. The Home Club is responsible for supplying a First Aid Kit which meets current FA guidelines and shall ensure that they are aware of the nearest Accident & Emergency Department.
managers, coaching and medical staff shall be permitted in the technical area. No person under 16 years of age shall be permitted in the technical area. Misconduct by occupants of the technical area will be reported by the Referee to the Committee, who shall be empowered to impose such sanctions as it deems fit.
65. In Matches where dug-outs are not provided and a technical area not defined, the Coach/Manager may convey tactical instructions to Players during the match, however the Coach/Manager must always conduct themselves in a responsible manner. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
66. In Matches where assistant referees are appointed, or when instructed by the Committee, Clubs must provide barriers or roping to ensure there is no encroaching on the field of play or the impeding of the assistant referees. If barriers or roping are not available, it is the Home Club’s duty to ensure that substitute
Players, officials and spectators must not encroach on the field of play or impede the assistant referees in carrying out their duties.
67. The Home Club is responsible for supplying a First Aid Kit which meets current FA guidelines and shall ensure that they are aware of the nearest Accident & Emergency Department.
O. Dimensions of the Field of Play
68. The dimensions of the field of play for Grounds in the Competition shall be:
Length: maximum 120 m (130 yards); minimum 90m (100 yards).
Width: maximum 90m (100 yards); minimum 60m (70 yards).
but in any event the dimensions must (i) conform to the Laws of the Game and (ii) conform to the stipulated dimensions of the League of which the Club participates in and upon which the Club’s entry to the Competition is based.
69. Goal nets and corner flags must be used in all Matches. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
Length: maximum 120 m (130 yards); minimum 90m (100 yards).
Width: maximum 90m (100 yards); minimum 60m (70 yards).
but in any event the dimensions must (i) conform to the Laws of the Game and (ii) conform to the stipulated dimensions of the League of which the Club participates in and upon which the Club’s entry to the Competition is based.
69. Goal nets and corner flags must be used in all Matches. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
P. Hospitality
70. The Home Club must provide water, tea/coffee or fruit squash at half-time for the Match Officials and suitable food and refreshments for all Players and Match Officials after the Match to a standard equivalent to a home match in their own League. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
71. The away Club must stay and accept the post-Match hospitality provided by the Home Club. If a minimum of 8 players from the away Club fail to return to the Home Club's clubhouse or notified venue to accept the post-Match hospitality, in addition to being liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule, the away Club will be required to reimburse the Home Club for their reasonable hospitality costs. Any dispute(s) on the reasonable costs will be subject to determination by the Committee whose decision shall be final and binding on both Clubs.
72. Any Club who refuses to provide/accept post-Match hospitality to/from its opposition without providing a satisfactory explanation shall be dealt with in such manner as the Committee deems appropriate.
71. The away Club must stay and accept the post-Match hospitality provided by the Home Club. If a minimum of 8 players from the away Club fail to return to the Home Club's clubhouse or notified venue to accept the post-Match hospitality, in addition to being liable to a fine in accordance with the Schedule, the away Club will be required to reimburse the Home Club for their reasonable hospitality costs. Any dispute(s) on the reasonable costs will be subject to determination by the Committee whose decision shall be final and binding on both Clubs.
72. Any Club who refuses to provide/accept post-Match hospitality to/from its opposition without providing a satisfactory explanation shall be dealt with in such manner as the Committee deems appropriate.
Q. Postponed/Abandoned Matches
73. If a Match is at risk of postponement for any reason, the Home Club must inform, consult and liaise with their opponents, the Match Officials, the Hon. Secretary and Referees’ Appointment Officer without delay. The Hon. Secretary retains full control and discretion in relation to any possible postponements of fixtures. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
74. In the event of a Match being postponed by the Hon. Secretary it shall be re-arranged for the next available Saturday unless the Hon. Secretary decides otherwise.
75. In the event of a Match being postponed on 1 (or more) occasions due to circumstances over which neither Club has control, both Clubs should have an alternative Ground available in case a change of Ground is required. The Committee shall be empowered to switch the venue (either to another Ground supplied by the Home Club, or to the away Club’s Ground or to a neutral venue) if the Hon. Secretary considers such action appropriate and beneficial to the progress and running of the Competition. The costs of the Ground shall be shared between the Clubs.
76. In the event of a Match being postponed due to circumstances over which neither Club has control, the Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to the full Match fee if they attend the Ground. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
77. Where a Match is postponed owing to one Club being in default, the defaulting Club shall pay the Match Officials the full Match fee if they attend the Ground together with the reasonable expenses of the nondefaulting Club. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
78. When a Match has been abandoned before the completion of 90 minutes due to circumstances over which neither Club has control it shall be re-arranged for the next available Saturday unless the Hon. Secretary decides otherwise.
79. The Committee shall review all abandoned Matches in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of either or both Clubs. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the Committee shall be empowered to order the score at the time of the abandonment to stand. In cases where the Committee is satisfied that a Match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one Club or its Player(s) it shall be empowered to award the Match to the opponent.
80. In cases where a Match has been abandoned owing to the conduct of both Clubs or their Player(s), the Committee shall be empowered to take such further action as it deems appropriate (including expelling both Clubs from the Competition).
81. The Committee shall review any Match that has taken place where either or both Clubs were under a suspension imposed upon them by the FA or a County Association. In each case the Club that was under suspension would be dealt with in the same manner as if they had participated with ineligible Players in accordance with Rule 17. Where both Clubs were under suspension the Match must be declared null and void and shall not be replayed.
74. In the event of a Match being postponed by the Hon. Secretary it shall be re-arranged for the next available Saturday unless the Hon. Secretary decides otherwise.
75. In the event of a Match being postponed on 1 (or more) occasions due to circumstances over which neither Club has control, both Clubs should have an alternative Ground available in case a change of Ground is required. The Committee shall be empowered to switch the venue (either to another Ground supplied by the Home Club, or to the away Club’s Ground or to a neutral venue) if the Hon. Secretary considers such action appropriate and beneficial to the progress and running of the Competition. The costs of the Ground shall be shared between the Clubs.
76. In the event of a Match being postponed due to circumstances over which neither Club has control, the Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to the full Match fee if they attend the Ground. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
77. Where a Match is postponed owing to one Club being in default, the defaulting Club shall pay the Match Officials the full Match fee if they attend the Ground together with the reasonable expenses of the nondefaulting Club. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
78. When a Match has been abandoned before the completion of 90 minutes due to circumstances over which neither Club has control it shall be re-arranged for the next available Saturday unless the Hon. Secretary decides otherwise.
79. The Committee shall review all abandoned Matches in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of either or both Clubs. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the Committee shall be empowered to order the score at the time of the abandonment to stand. In cases where the Committee is satisfied that a Match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one Club or its Player(s) it shall be empowered to award the Match to the opponent.
80. In cases where a Match has been abandoned owing to the conduct of both Clubs or their Player(s), the Committee shall be empowered to take such further action as it deems appropriate (including expelling both Clubs from the Competition).
81. The Committee shall review any Match that has taken place where either or both Clubs were under a suspension imposed upon them by the FA or a County Association. In each case the Club that was under suspension would be dealt with in the same manner as if they had participated with ineligible Players in accordance with Rule 17. Where both Clubs were under suspension the Match must be declared null and void and shall not be replayed.
R. Withdrawal from the Competition
82. Clubs wishing to withdraw from the Competition after the draw has been made must give at least 21 days' notice in writing to the Hon. Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule
83. A Club withdrawing from the Competition shall also be liable for any reasonably unavoidable expenses incurred by their opponents and, where applicable, the Match fees and reasonable travelling expenses of the Match Officials. Any dispute(s) on the reasonable expenses will be subject to determination by the Committee whose decision shall be final and binding.
84. For the avoidance of doubt:
83. A Club withdrawing from the Competition shall also be liable for any reasonably unavoidable expenses incurred by their opponents and, where applicable, the Match fees and reasonable travelling expenses of the Match Officials. Any dispute(s) on the reasonable expenses will be subject to determination by the Committee whose decision shall be final and binding.
84. For the avoidance of doubt:
- any Club withdrawing from the Competition shall have the Match awarded to its opposition.
- unless a satisfactory explanation is provided to the Hon. Secretary as to the reason for its withdrawal, the Committee will remove its annual invitation (for a period determined at its sole discretion) to any Club who withdraws from the Competition or who fails to fulfil a Match, and a financial penalty may also be imposed at the sole discretion of the Committee.
S. Fitness of Ground for Commencing Play
85. Except in instances where local authorities, schools, colleges or private commercial entities declare a blanket postponement over Grounds under their control, all Grounds should be inspected by a Referee before a Match is postponed.
86. In the event of any doubt as to the condition of the Ground (irrespective of whether the Ground is under the Club’s control), the Home Club should ensure the Ground is examined as soon as possible in order to save unnecessary journeys being incurred by Participants.
87. Subject to the above, the Referee shall have power to decide as to the fitness of the Ground in all Matches and shall have the power to abandon or postpone the Match if he believes conditions a re detrimental to the welfare of the Participants.
88. Any objections relating to the Ground, goal posts or bars, or other appurtenances of the Match shall not be entertained by the Committee unless an objection has been lodged with the Referee by the captain of the complaining Club in the presence of the captain of the opposing Club before the commencement of the Match and no later than 20 minutes before the scheduled time of kick-off. The Referee shall require the responsible Club to remedy the objection where practicable to do so without unduly delaying the kickoff of the Match. When an objection has been lodged with the Referee, a protest must be made by the complainant Club to the Hon. Secretary within 3 days (Sunday included) of the date of the Match.
86. In the event of any doubt as to the condition of the Ground (irrespective of whether the Ground is under the Club’s control), the Home Club should ensure the Ground is examined as soon as possible in order to save unnecessary journeys being incurred by Participants.
87. Subject to the above, the Referee shall have power to decide as to the fitness of the Ground in all Matches and shall have the power to abandon or postpone the Match if he believes conditions a re detrimental to the welfare of the Participants.
88. Any objections relating to the Ground, goal posts or bars, or other appurtenances of the Match shall not be entertained by the Committee unless an objection has been lodged with the Referee by the captain of the complaining Club in the presence of the captain of the opposing Club before the commencement of the Match and no later than 20 minutes before the scheduled time of kick-off. The Referee shall require the responsible Club to remedy the objection where practicable to do so without unduly delaying the kickoff of the Match. When an objection has been lodged with the Referee, a protest must be made by the complainant Club to the Hon. Secretary within 3 days (Sunday included) of the date of the Match.
T. Reporting Results
89. Each Club must submit its Match result by SMS text message to the FA Full-Time system by 6pm on a Saturday, or within 2 hours of the completion of a Match played on any other day. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
90. Where a text has not been received, both Clubs must ensure that the result is confirmed by sending an email to the competition Secretary with full details of the Match - i.e.
92. All Clubs must keep a list of the players used and a record of the games in which they have played in the Competition on the FA’s Full-Time system/Competition Portal. Clubs must also communicate the result of their Matches to their Leagues. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
90. Where a text has not been received, both Clubs must ensure that the result is confirmed by sending an email to the competition Secretary with full details of the Match - i.e.
- the identity of the competing Clubs.
- the names of the Match Officials.
- the score (including penalties if necessary).
92. All Clubs must keep a list of the players used and a record of the games in which they have played in the Competition on the FA’s Full-Time system/Competition Portal. Clubs must also communicate the result of their Matches to their Leagues. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
U. The Final
93. The Committee shall arrange the Ground for the Final of the Competition and shall have direct control of the arrangements, receipts and disbursements in connection with this Match. In the event of admission being charged at the Final, any gate receipts will be retained by the Committee.
94. Each Club playing in the Final must submit to the Hon. Secretary, at least 14 days prior to the date of the Final, details of the club history and pen pictures of every Player liable to be selected, together with a Club photograph, choice of proposed colours and Club logo to be used in the match-day programme. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a daily fine in accordance with the Schedule.
95. Both Clubs and the Match Officials must (i) attend the Final appropriately and tastefully attired (for the avoidance of doubt, smart casual Shirts, Jackets, Trousers and (Club/County Association) Ties must be worn) and (ii) be available to have pre and post-Match photographs taken. All Participants in the Final are deemed to have given their consent for their images to be used on the Competition’s website and/or social media.
96. In the Final, both Clubs must provide to the Match Officials for their approval prior to kick-off of the Final three (3) size 5 footballs that conform to the Laws of the Game. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
97. In addition to the trophy, the President and the Competition’s Patron shall present 16 commemorative souvenirs to the Players of both Clubs and the Match Officials.
98. When a Player taking part in the Final is ordered to leave the field of play for misconduct, the President and/or the Chairman and/or the Hon. Secretary shall decide at their sole discretion whether the souvenir to which he is entitled shall be presented unless the misconduct is for violent conduct for an assault on a Match Official, Player, Club official or spectator (in which case the Player shall not be presented with an award). The Club may apply in writing for the souvenir to be sent to it thereafter.
99. In the event of a Club being removed from the Competition after winning the Final, the Committee is empowered to award the trophy and player souvenirs to the beaten finalists. The cost of the replacement Player souvenirs shall be met by the defaulting Club. The Committee may also request the return of trophy and player awards for the beaten finalists, if subsequently removed from the Competition.
94. Each Club playing in the Final must submit to the Hon. Secretary, at least 14 days prior to the date of the Final, details of the club history and pen pictures of every Player liable to be selected, together with a Club photograph, choice of proposed colours and Club logo to be used in the match-day programme. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a daily fine in accordance with the Schedule.
95. Both Clubs and the Match Officials must (i) attend the Final appropriately and tastefully attired (for the avoidance of doubt, smart casual Shirts, Jackets, Trousers and (Club/County Association) Ties must be worn) and (ii) be available to have pre and post-Match photographs taken. All Participants in the Final are deemed to have given their consent for their images to be used on the Competition’s website and/or social media.
96. In the Final, both Clubs must provide to the Match Officials for their approval prior to kick-off of the Final three (3) size 5 footballs that conform to the Laws of the Game. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Schedule.
97. In addition to the trophy, the President and the Competition’s Patron shall present 16 commemorative souvenirs to the Players of both Clubs and the Match Officials.
98. When a Player taking part in the Final is ordered to leave the field of play for misconduct, the President and/or the Chairman and/or the Hon. Secretary shall decide at their sole discretion whether the souvenir to which he is entitled shall be presented unless the misconduct is for violent conduct for an assault on a Match Official, Player, Club official or spectator (in which case the Player shall not be presented with an award). The Club may apply in writing for the souvenir to be sent to it thereafter.
99. In the event of a Club being removed from the Competition after winning the Final, the Committee is empowered to award the trophy and player souvenirs to the beaten finalists. The cost of the replacement Player souvenirs shall be met by the defaulting Club. The Committee may also request the return of trophy and player awards for the beaten finalists, if subsequently removed from the Competition.
V. Appointment of Referees and Assistant Referees
100. Match Officials will be appointed by the Referees’ Appointment Officer for all Matches in the Competition. In the event of a Club being advised by the Referees’ Appointment Officer that it is not possible to make an appointment, it shall be the responsibility of the Home Club to provide a Referee who shall rank as an official appointment.
101. In the event of (i) no Referee being appointed or (ii) the appointed Referee failing to arrive (on time), a Referee shall be chosen on the Ground and must be mutually agreed by both Clubs.
102. The individual appointed pursuant to Rule 101 will be considered as an official appointment by the Referees’ Appointment Officer for: (i) the duration of the Match or (ii) for such time until the appointed Referee arrives at the Ground. The absence of the appointed Referee shall not be deemed sufficient cause for the Match not being played. A Referee may not play in the Match. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule will be fined in accordance with the Schedule and may be expelled from the Competition.
103. All Match Officials should inform the Hon. Secretary if details of the Match have not been supplied by the Home Club not less than 4 days prior to the date arranged for the Match.
104. Whilst both Clubs are equally responsible for the fee(s) of the Match Officials, the fee(s) must be paid by the home Club either (i) when the team-sheet is handed in prior to commencement of the Match or (ii) immediately (i.e. no later than 30 minutes) after the Match has concluded. If Assistant Referees are appointed, they must be paid on the same basis and at the same time. Payment by the away Club of its outstanding share of the Match Officials’ fee(s) must be made to the home Club on the day of the Match. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule will be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
105. All Match Officials are expected to attend post-Match hospitality.
106. In the event of a Match being postponed, Match Officials who have not been contacted and who travel to the Ground shall receive the full Match fee.
107. In the Final, the Match fee for the Match Officials shall be paid by the Committee whilst all Match Officials shall also be presented with a commemorative souvenir.
108. No referee under 16 years of age shall participate either as a Referee or Assistant Referee in any Match.
101. In the event of (i) no Referee being appointed or (ii) the appointed Referee failing to arrive (on time), a Referee shall be chosen on the Ground and must be mutually agreed by both Clubs.
102. The individual appointed pursuant to Rule 101 will be considered as an official appointment by the Referees’ Appointment Officer for: (i) the duration of the Match or (ii) for such time until the appointed Referee arrives at the Ground. The absence of the appointed Referee shall not be deemed sufficient cause for the Match not being played. A Referee may not play in the Match. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule will be fined in accordance with the Schedule and may be expelled from the Competition.
103. All Match Officials should inform the Hon. Secretary if details of the Match have not been supplied by the Home Club not less than 4 days prior to the date arranged for the Match.
104. Whilst both Clubs are equally responsible for the fee(s) of the Match Officials, the fee(s) must be paid by the home Club either (i) when the team-sheet is handed in prior to commencement of the Match or (ii) immediately (i.e. no later than 30 minutes) after the Match has concluded. If Assistant Referees are appointed, they must be paid on the same basis and at the same time. Payment by the away Club of its outstanding share of the Match Officials’ fee(s) must be made to the home Club on the day of the Match. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule will be fined in accordance with the Schedule.
105. All Match Officials are expected to attend post-Match hospitality.
106. In the event of a Match being postponed, Match Officials who have not been contacted and who travel to the Ground shall receive the full Match fee.
107. In the Final, the Match fee for the Match Officials shall be paid by the Committee whilst all Match Officials shall also be presented with a commemorative souvenir.
108. No referee under 16 years of age shall participate either as a Referee or Assistant Referee in any Match.
W. Protests and Appeals
109. All questions relating to the qualification or eligibility of Players or interpretation of these Rules or any dispute or protest whatever shall be referred to the Committee whose decision shall be final and binding.
Protests from Clubs relating to player eligibility should be accompanied, where possible by photographic evidence of the Player’s participation in the Match. Other evidence may be considered (e.g. team-sheets, social media posts) if they clearly indicate participation in the Match.
110. Any objections relating to the Ground, goal posts or bars, or other appurtenances of the Match shall not be entertained by the Committee unless an objection was lodged with the Referee by the captain of the complaining Club in the presence of the captain of the opposing Club before the commencement of the Match and no later than 20 minutes before the official time of kick-off pursuant to Rule 88.
111. Any dispute or protest must be in writing and contain the particulars of the grounds upon which it is founded and sent to the Hon. Secretary within 3 days of the Match to which it relates (Sundays included).
No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Committee unless the complaining Club has sent a deposit accompanying its protest in accordance with the Schedule. The deposit may be forfeited in whole or in part in the event of the dispute or protest not being upheld or being judged to be frivolous.
112. A member of the Committee who is a member of a Club involved in a dispute or protest shall not be involved (except as a witness or representative of his Club) when such protest or complaint is being considered and determined by the Committee.
113. Once the Committee has finished its deliberations (and arrived at a decision on a majority basis), the Hon Secretary shall contact both Clubs with a written determination. The Committee is empowered to order the defaulting Club or the Club making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the inquiry or, if it is determined that both Clubs were at fault, to order that the costs be shared by the Clubs.
114. A Club that is expelled from the Competition may appeal in writing within 3 days against that decision to an appeal board comprising of 2 Committee Members selected by the Chairman. The decision of the appeal board shall and final and binding on all Clubs.
115. For the avoidance of doubt, a Club may not appeal against any penalty imposed on it other than expulsion from the Competition.
116. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any breach of procedure or failure to follow any time limit by the Committee shall not invalidate its decision unless the breach or failure is such as to seriously and irredeemably prejudice the position of the affected Participant.
Protests from Clubs relating to player eligibility should be accompanied, where possible by photographic evidence of the Player’s participation in the Match. Other evidence may be considered (e.g. team-sheets, social media posts) if they clearly indicate participation in the Match.
110. Any objections relating to the Ground, goal posts or bars, or other appurtenances of the Match shall not be entertained by the Committee unless an objection was lodged with the Referee by the captain of the complaining Club in the presence of the captain of the opposing Club before the commencement of the Match and no later than 20 minutes before the official time of kick-off pursuant to Rule 88.
111. Any dispute or protest must be in writing and contain the particulars of the grounds upon which it is founded and sent to the Hon. Secretary within 3 days of the Match to which it relates (Sundays included).
No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Committee unless the complaining Club has sent a deposit accompanying its protest in accordance with the Schedule. The deposit may be forfeited in whole or in part in the event of the dispute or protest not being upheld or being judged to be frivolous.
112. A member of the Committee who is a member of a Club involved in a dispute or protest shall not be involved (except as a witness or representative of his Club) when such protest or complaint is being considered and determined by the Committee.
113. Once the Committee has finished its deliberations (and arrived at a decision on a majority basis), the Hon Secretary shall contact both Clubs with a written determination. The Committee is empowered to order the defaulting Club or the Club making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the inquiry or, if it is determined that both Clubs were at fault, to order that the costs be shared by the Clubs.
114. A Club that is expelled from the Competition may appeal in writing within 3 days against that decision to an appeal board comprising of 2 Committee Members selected by the Chairman. The decision of the appeal board shall and final and binding on all Clubs.
115. For the avoidance of doubt, a Club may not appeal against any penalty imposed on it other than expulsion from the Competition.
116. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any breach of procedure or failure to follow any time limit by the Committee shall not invalidate its decision unless the breach or failure is such as to seriously and irredeemably prejudice the position of the affected Participant.
X. Miscellaneous
117. All fines imposed under these Rules and such other payments as decided upon by the Committee must be paid not later than 10 days after the date of notification of the decision. Any Club failing to pay the required sum by the stipulated date shall have the fine doubled. If the amounts are still outstanding after a further seven days, the Club shall have its annual invitation rescinded.
118. The Competition shall maintain a fund for charitable purposes to which part of the proceeds of the Final after the deduction of all the expenses shall be applied. The proceeds shall be distributed at the Committee’s discretion.
119. The Committee shall be empowered to alter, expunge or add to these Rules as it deems expedient, but such alteration, expunction or addition shall not come into force until the Season following that in which the Committee shall have decided to take such action. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Committee has to adopt emergency measures to complete the Competition in any Season, such alteration, expunction or addition shall come into force immediately if two-thirds of Committee members present vote in favour of such action at a Meeting held to deal with an emergency. Details of any Rules amended or expunged in such circumstances shall be circulated to all Clubs.
120. Dissolution of the Competition shall take place only after a Resolution to such effect has been passed by a 75% majority at a special General Meeting specially convened for such purpose by the Hon. Secretary with three weeks’ written notice of the meeting and at which the representatives of at least three-quarters of the Clubs belonging to the Competition are present. In the event of dissolution then the funds shall be allocated to each charity or charities as the Committee meeting shall decide.
121. The Committee shall determine with which bank or other financial institution the funds of the Competition will be lodged.
122. The financial year of the Competition will end on 31 May and the books, or a certified balance sheet, of the Competition shall be prepared and shall be audited annually by some suitable persons who shall be appointed at the Annual General Meeting.
123. Any Club who fails to comply with an order or instruction of the Committee or fails to satisfactorily attend to the business and/or correspondence of the Competition when directed shall be liable to be fined in accordance with the Schedule or otherwise dealt with at the discretion of the Committee.
124. The Competition and each Participant is committed to promoting inclusivity and to eliminating all forms of discrimination and will abide and adhere to The FA Equality Policy and any legislative requirements (including those contained in the Equality Act 2010).
125. The Competition and each Participant will make every effort to promote equality by treating people fairly and with respect, by recognising that inequalities may exist, by taking steps to address them and by providing access and opportunities for all members of the community, irrespective of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability or otherwise. Any alleged breach of the Equality Act 2010 legislation must be referred to the AFA for investigation.
126. All Clubs shall adhere to these Rules and every Club is deemed to have accepted these Rules and to have agreed to abide by the decisions of the Committee in relation thereto.
118. The Competition shall maintain a fund for charitable purposes to which part of the proceeds of the Final after the deduction of all the expenses shall be applied. The proceeds shall be distributed at the Committee’s discretion.
119. The Committee shall be empowered to alter, expunge or add to these Rules as it deems expedient, but such alteration, expunction or addition shall not come into force until the Season following that in which the Committee shall have decided to take such action. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Committee has to adopt emergency measures to complete the Competition in any Season, such alteration, expunction or addition shall come into force immediately if two-thirds of Committee members present vote in favour of such action at a Meeting held to deal with an emergency. Details of any Rules amended or expunged in such circumstances shall be circulated to all Clubs.
120. Dissolution of the Competition shall take place only after a Resolution to such effect has been passed by a 75% majority at a special General Meeting specially convened for such purpose by the Hon. Secretary with three weeks’ written notice of the meeting and at which the representatives of at least three-quarters of the Clubs belonging to the Competition are present. In the event of dissolution then the funds shall be allocated to each charity or charities as the Committee meeting shall decide.
121. The Committee shall determine with which bank or other financial institution the funds of the Competition will be lodged.
122. The financial year of the Competition will end on 31 May and the books, or a certified balance sheet, of the Competition shall be prepared and shall be audited annually by some suitable persons who shall be appointed at the Annual General Meeting.
123. Any Club who fails to comply with an order or instruction of the Committee or fails to satisfactorily attend to the business and/or correspondence of the Competition when directed shall be liable to be fined in accordance with the Schedule or otherwise dealt with at the discretion of the Committee.
124. The Competition and each Participant is committed to promoting inclusivity and to eliminating all forms of discrimination and will abide and adhere to The FA Equality Policy and any legislative requirements (including those contained in the Equality Act 2010).
125. The Competition and each Participant will make every effort to promote equality by treating people fairly and with respect, by recognising that inequalities may exist, by taking steps to address them and by providing access and opportunities for all members of the community, irrespective of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability or otherwise. Any alleged breach of the Equality Act 2010 legislation must be referred to the AFA for investigation.
126. All Clubs shall adhere to these Rules and every Club is deemed to have accepted these Rules and to have agreed to abide by the decisions of the Committee in relation thereto.
Y. Schedule of Fees and Fines
| Fines Tariff | ||
| Rule | Fee (£) | |
| 9 | Annual Entry Fee | 100 |
| 104 | Referee Fee | 50 |
| 104 | Assistant Referee Fee | 45 |
| 111 | Deposit for Protests/Appeals | 100 |
| Fines Tariff | ||
| Rule | Fee (£) | |
| 3 | Failure to return the trophy as directed, in time and condition | 150 per day |
| 9 | Failure to pay Entry Fee by 1 October | 75 |
| 10 | Failure to provide/confirm County Association affiliation number when requested | 50 |
| 14 | Failure to retain/produce list of Players required | up to 250 |
| 26 | Failure to attend the Competition's Annual General Meeting | 75 |
| 35 | Failure to provide confirmation that a 3G pitch is listed on the FA's Register of 3G Football Turf Pitches if requested | 50 |
| 36 | Failure to advise on footwear requirements and any limitations or recommendations regarding the type of boot or stud that may be used on a 3G surface | 50 |
| 38 | Failure of home Club to contact their opponents and the Match Officials at least 6 clear days prior to the date arranged for the Match | 75 |
| 39 | Failure of away Club ascertain details of the Match and report the lack of provision of the same to the Hon. Secretary. | 75 |
| 48-49 | Failure to commence Match within 0-29 minutes of the scheduled time for kick-off. | 75 |
| 48-49 | Failure to commence Match within 30+ minutes of the scheduled time for kick-off. | 100 |
| 50 | Failure to provide team-sheet (or providing an incomplete/inaccurate team-sheet) | 75 |
| 50 | Failure to wear uniquely numbered shirts | 75 |
| 52 | Failure to notify referee of change of Playing squad | 75 |
| 54-56 | Failure to comply with the provision of Rules 54-56 | 50 per Rule |
| 58 | Failure of the home Club to provide three (3) size 5 footballs | 75 |
| 69 | Failure to provide Goal nets and corner flags | 75 |
| 70 | Failure to provide/accept post-Match hospitality | up to 250 |
| 71 | Repeated failure to provide/accept post-Match hospitality | up to 250 |
| 73 | Failure to inform opponents, Match Officials, Hon. Secretary and Referees' Appointment Officer of a postponed Match | 75 |
| 82 | Withdrawal from the Competition with insufficient notice | 100 |
| 89 | Failure to submit score within the prescribed time limit | 75 |
| 91 | Failure to enter relevant post-Match data or to provide written report to explain a low mark for a referee | 75 |
| 94 | Failure to provide relevant details for the programme for the Final | 75 per day |
| 96 | Failure to provide three (3) size 5 footballs for the Final | 100 |
| 102 | Failure to fulfil Match due to lack of appointed Match Official | 75 |
| 104 | Failure to pay Match Fee(s) to the Match Official(s) | up to 250 |
| 104 | Failure to reimburse Match Fee(s) to the home Club | 150 |
| Breach of any other Competition rule(s) where there is no stated fine | unlimited | |
| Maximum fine for any single breach | unlimited | |
