Education

Our leagues adopt FIFA’s zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of racism and discrimination. This includes any verbal, physical, or symbolic acts of racism during matches, training sessions, or related events. In line with FIFA’s Global Stand Against Racism, players, coaches, and officials are empowered to use the “No Racism” gesture—crossing their wrists—to signal incidents of racial abuse. This action prompts the referee to initiate the three-step procedure:

1 – Stop the match.
2 – Suspend the match.
3 – Abandon the match if the abuse persists.

This protocol is mandatory and applies to all league activities. For reporting any incidents, please complete the GFA Incident Form on the GFA website.

Concussion: Suspect and Protect

Player safety is paramount. Any individual exhibiting signs or symptoms of a concussion must immediately leave the field and seek medical attention. Symptoms may not be immediately apparent and can develop up to 72 hours post-impact. In accordance with FIFA’s “Concussion: Suspect and Protect” campaign, players are prohibited from returning to play on the same day of a suspected concussion. Additionally, permanent concussion substitutes are permitted under the Laws of the Game to ensure player safety.For additional references, please check out FIFA Concussion document.

Safeguarding: Protecting All Participants

Our league is committed to creating a safe environment free from harassment, abuse, exploitation, or neglect. This commitment aligns with FIFA’s Guardians programme, which provides a framework to prevent harm and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns. All individuals involved in the league—players, coaches, officials, and volunteers—are expected to adhere to these safeguarding principles.

Youth players are entitled to a safe playing environment where their physical, emotional, and mental well-being is prioritized at all times.

Referees are protected from intimidation, abuse, or threats during matches, ensuring they can perform their duties fairly and safely.

Any safeguarding concerns must be reported promptly using the GFA Incident Form – Safeguarding available on the GFA Website or contact Mr. Walter Benavente, GFA Safeguarding Officer via E-mail at [email protected]