Discipline Procedure
How the league handles disciplinary matters — red cards, misconduct, fines and appeals.
Overview
The GCGL follows a clear and fair disciplinary procedure that applies to all clubs, managers, coaches, players and officials. Clubs are responsible for the conduct of everyone associated with them, including spectators and parents.
Disciplinary Process
Incident Occurs
A red card, misconduct incident or serious breach of the rules occurs during or after a fixture.
Written Charge Issued
The league issues a formal written charge to the club within 14 days of the incident being reported.
Club Has 7 Days to Respond
The club must respond in writing within 7 days, either accepting or denying the charge.
Mitigation or Hearing
The club can accept the charge and submit written mitigation, or request a hearing to present their case in person.
Decision Issued
The league issues a written decision within 7 days of the response deadline or hearing.
Right of Appeal
Clubs may appeal to the Sanctioning Authority (Gloucestershire FA) within 7 days of the decision.
Red Card Procedure
- • All red cards are automatically reported to the league
- • Minimum 1-match suspension applies immediately
- • Player is suspended until charge is resolved
- • Serious misconduct cases are referred to Gloucestershire FA
Sanctions
- • Maximum fine: £100
- • Players under 18 cannot be fined
- • Match suspensions: duration decided by committee
- • Serious cases: referred to County FA
Appeals
Clubs have the right to appeal any decision made by the league's Management Committee.
Notice of Intent to Appeal
Must be lodged with Gloucestershire FA (and copied to the league Secretary) within 7 days of the decision.
Formal Appeal
Must be lodged within 14 days of the decision, with an appeal fee of £25.00. The fee may be forfeited if the appeal is not upheld.
Important Reminder
Clubs are responsible for paying all fines within 14 days of the invoice date. Failure to pay may result in fixture suspension. Players must not be selected for matches while serving a suspension — doing so will result in additional sanctions including potential points deductions.
Contact
For disciplinary queries, contact Kate Holden (Discipline Officer):
kate@oatfieldfarm.co.uk | 07803 412609