Helping Managers Succeed
At Ashfield Pirates FC, we work hard to make the Manager role as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Managers are supported with clear communication, access to club resources, team equipment, and guidance on matchday and administrative requirements. Our committee and coordinators are always available to assist, so Managers can focus on supporting players, families, and building a positive team environment, the Pirates way.
Game Duration
All matches are played in two equal halves and are expected to start at the scheduled time. Teams are allowed a maximum ten-minute grace period if there are insufficient players to begin the match. Once enough players arrive, play must commence immediately. There is no added or injury time in regular competition matches. If a game starts late, the referee will shorten the match to keep the schedule on track, ensuring halves remain equal. Half-time breaks may also be adjusted, particularly in older age groups, depending on time availability.
Click here for Game Duration information.
Match Day Procedures
Match day preparation is key to ensuring games run smoothly for players, officials and referees. Ashfield Pirates FC provides clear processes and guidance to support Managers before, during and after each match. By following the steps below, Managers help protect the club, avoid fines, and ensure a positive, organised matchday experience, the Pirates way.
Working With Children Check (WWCC)
The safety and wellbeing of our players is a top priority at Ashfield Pirates FC. Anyone volunteering as a coach, manager or in an official role must hold a valid Working With Children Check. The process is free for volunteers and helps ensure we continue to provide a safe, welcoming and trusted environment for all families. Registering is simple, and once completed, your clearance can be used across multiple organisations.
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Working With Children Check FAQ's
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Register as a Team Manager
Team Managers play a vital role in keeping our teams organised and running smoothly throughout the season. From match day coordination to communication with players, parents and the club, managers help create a positive and supportive environment for everyone involved. No previous experience is required — just a willingness to help and be part of the Pirates community. If you’re interested in managing a team in 2026, please register via the link below.​
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Match Sheet Submission Procedures
Accurate and timely match sheet submission is essential to keeping competitions running smoothly and protecting teams from fines. Ashfield Pirates FC uses the DRIBL system to manage electronic match sheets, player IDs and results. By following the procedures below, Managers help ensure compliance with Football Canterbury requirements, support referees on match day, and allow the club to accurately record results and incidents, the Pirates way.
Ground Officials
Ground Officials play an important role in ensuring match days run safely, smoothly and in line with Football Canterbury requirements. At Ashfield Pirates FC, Ground Officials support referees, manage the match environment, and help uphold the club’s values of respect, safety and fair play. By clearly understanding their responsibilities, volunteers help create a positive experience for players, officials and spectators while protecting both teams and the club.
Borrowing Players & Forfeits
Borrowing players and managing forfeits must always be handled carefully and in line with Football Canterbury rules. At Ashfield Pirates FC, we encourage teams to explore all reasonable options to field a side before considering a forfeit. Understanding borrowing limits, eligibility and notification requirements helps protect players, teams and the club from unnecessary penalties, while ensuring fairness and safety across all competitions, the Pirates way.
Wet Weather & Ground Closures
Wet weather can change match and training arrangements quickly, sometimes with very little notice. At Ashfield Pirates FC, player safety and field protection always come first. We ask all players, parents and officials to stay informed, remain flexible, and check official channels regularly. Understanding how closures, transfers and washouts are communicated helps avoid confusion, unnecessary travel, and the risk of forfeits, the Pirates way.
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Football Canterbury Rules 2026
Football Canterbury’s Competition Rules set the framework for how the 2026 season is played, covering eligibility, match procedures, player movement and conduct. All Ashfield Pirates FC players, coaches and managers are expected to be familiar with these rules and apply them consistently throughout the season. Understanding and following the competition regulations helps ensure fairness, safety and a positive football experience for everyone involved.
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Football Canterbury Fines & Charges 2026
Football Canterbury applies fines and sanctions to help maintain fair play, safety and proper competition standards. Coaches and Managers are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Football Canterbury Judiciary, Disciplinary and Appeals Regulations. Where fines are issued to Ashfield Pirates FC, responsibility for payment rests with the individual, team or official involved. Understanding common fines and processes helps avoid unnecessary penalties and protects both teams and the club, the Pirates way.