RICE LAKE CF

Section 2: Core Values Defined

1. Integrity

Integrity is the foundation of trust within Rice Lake CF.

All members are expected to:

• Act honestly in all situations, both on and off the field
• Do the right thing even when no one is watching
• Represent the Club with transparency and ethical behavior
• Avoid actions that could damage the reputation of the Club and yourself

Examples of Conduct That Damage Reputation

The following actions are strictly prohibited:

1. Disrespectful or Aggressive Behavior

• Fighting or attempting to fight
• Verbal abuse toward teammates, coaches, referees, or opponents
• Threatening, intimidating, or bullying behavior

2. Substance Misuse

• Use of drugs or alcohol during team activities
• Attending games or practices under the influence
• Public behavior involving substances that reflects poorly on the Club

3. Social Media Misconduct

• Posting offensive or inappropriate content
• Public criticism of teammates, coaches, referees, or the Club
• Content promoting violence, discrimination, or illegal activity
• Representing the Club negatively online

4. Lack of Sportsmanship

• Arguing excessively with referees
• Disrespecting opponents
• Unsportsmanlike conduct

5. Criminal or Illegal Activity

• Theft, vandalism, or property damage
• Illegal behavior
• Actions that result in legal consequences

6. Damage to Club Property

• Misuse of equipment
• Disrespect toward facilities

7. Failure to Represent the Club Professionally

• Wearing club gear while acting irresponsibly
• Behavior that brings negative attention
• Lack of commitment or poor attitude

8. Internal Disruption

• Creating division
• Spreading rumors or conflict
• Refusing coaching direction

9. Discrimination or Harassment

• Racism, sexism, or discrimination
• Harassment of any kind

Integrity means aligning actions with values at all times.

2. Honor

Honor reflects the pride and responsibility of representing Rice Lake CF.

• Carry yourself with dignity in victory and defeat
• Respect the game and its rules
• Protect the image of the Club
• Compete with passion and sportsmanship

Wearing the Rice Lake CF badge is a privilege.

3. Service

Rice Lake CF exists to serve something greater than the individual.

• Put the team above personal recognition
• Support teammates and staff
• Contribute positively to the culture
• Give back to the community

Service means building something bigger than ourselves.

Section 3: Standard of Commitment

These values are non negotiable and apply to:

• Players
• Coaches
• Staff
• Volunteers
• Club representatives

Section 4: Enforcement

Failure to uphold these values may result in:

• Warning
• Suspension
• Removal from activities
• Termination from the Club

All decisions will reflect the importance of protecting the culture and identity of Rice Lake CF.

Section 1: Eligibility

Membership in Rice Lake CF is granted to individuals who meet the standards, values, and requirements of the Club.

Membership is open to:

1. Players

• Individuals selected through tryouts, scouting, or recruitment
• Must demonstrate the ability, commitment, and character aligned with the Club’s standards
• Selection is based on both performance and attitude, not talent alone

2. Coaches and Staff

• Individuals approved by the Club Director and/or Board of Directors
• Must demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and alignment with Club values
• Responsible for upholding and enforcing the Club’s culture and standards

3. Volunteers

• Individuals supporting Club operations, events, or development
• Must act in accordance with the Club’s values and represent the organization positively

4. Membership Condition

All members must agree to:

• Abide by these bylaws
• Uphold the Club’s Core Values
• Accept the authority of Club leadership

Membership may be revoked at the discretion of the Club for failure to meet these standards.

Section 2: Player Expectations

All players are expected to maintain a high standard of commitment, behavior, and professionalism.

Players must:

1. Commitment & Attendance

• Attend all scheduled practices, matches, and team activities unless excused
• Communicate absences in advance when possible
• Demonstrate reliability and consistency

2. Obedience to Structure

• Follow all coaching instructions, team rules, and Club policies
• Respect decisions made by coaches and leadership
• Maintain discipline in all team environments

3. Accountability & Reporting

• Take responsibility for personal actions and performance
• Report any behavior that does not align with the Club’s Core Values
• Contribute to maintaining a positive and accountable team environment

4. Respect & Conduct

• Maintain respectful behavior toward teammates, coaches, staff, referees, and opponents
• Promote a positive and supportive team culture

5. Representation of the Club

• Represent Rice Lake CF with professionalism in all settings
• Conduct themselves appropriately in public, during travel, and on social media
• Avoid behavior that could harm the reputation of the Club

6. Financial & Administrative Responsibility

• Meet all required player fees and financial obligations
• Complete all registrations, forms, and documentation on time

Failure to meet these expectations may result in disciplinary action.

Section 3: Code of Conduct

All members of Rice Lake CF are required to adhere to the highest standards of behavior.

The following actions are strictly prohibited:

1. Aggression and Abuse

• Fighting or attempting to fight
• Verbal abuse, threats, or intimidation
• Bullying or harassment of any kind

2. Substance Misuse

• Use of drugs or alcohol during Club activities
• Attending practices or matches under the influence
• Any behavior that reflects negatively on the Club

3. Disrespect

• Disrespect toward coaches, staff, teammates, referees, or opponents
• Refusal to follow instructions or Club rules
• Negative or disruptive behavior within the team

4. Reputational Damage

• Any action that damages the reputation of Rice Lake CF
• Inappropriate behavior in public or while wearing Club gear
• Misconduct on social media or digital platforms

5. Internal Disruption

• Creating division within the team
• Spreading negativity, rumors, or conflict
• Undermining team unity or leadership

Section 4: Disciplinary Actions

Possible consequences include:

• Verbal or written warning
• Reduced playing time
• Suspension from practices or matches
• Removal from team activities
• Termination of membership

Decisions will be made by the Coaching Staff and Club Director based on severity, frequency, and impact.

Section 5: Commitment to Standards

Membership in Rice Lake CF is a privilege, not a right.

• Uphold the Club’s values
• Protect its reputation
• Contribute positively to its culture

Failure to do so may result in immediate removal from the Club.

Section 1: Leadership

Rice Lake CF shall operate under a defined leadership structure to ensure clear direction, accountability, and efficient decision-making.

1. Club Director (Founder / President)

The Club Director serves as the highest authority within Rice Lake CF.

• Overseeing all aspects of Club operations
• Defining long-term vision and strategy
• Final decisions on sporting, financial, and organizational matters
• Managing partnerships and sponsorships
• Ensuring alignment with mission and values
• Appointing coaches and staff
• Protecting the brand and reputation

The Club Director has final authority in all matters.

2. Coaching Staff

• Plan and conduct training
• Develop tactics and match strategy
• Evaluate players
• Enforce discipline
• Provide leadership and mentorship
• Communicate expectations

Coaches must uphold Core Values at all times.

3. Operations & Administration

• Scheduling practices and matches
• Managing logistics and travel
• Communication with players and leagues
• Financial records and budgets
• Marketing and sponsor support
• Maintaining organization structure

4. Additional Roles

• Marketing & Media Team
• Sponsorship Coordinator
• Team Managers
• Youth Development Directors

All roles operate under the Club Director.

Section 2: Decision-Making Authority

Final Authority

• Strategic direction
• Financial commitments
• Partnerships
• Structure
• Disciplinary actions

Coaching Input

• Player selection
• Tactics
• Discipline

Operational Input

• Scheduling
• Finances
• Communication

Leadership Principles

• Efficiency
• Clarity
• Accountability
• Alignment

Section 3: Delegation of Authority

The Club Director may delegate responsibilities when needed.

• Delegation does not remove accountability
• All roles must follow Club standards

Section 4: Organizational Discipline

• Enforce bylaws
• Maintain discipline
• Act in best interest of the Club

Failure to uphold responsibilities may result in removal.

Section 1: Team Structure

Rice Lake CF shall operate multiple teams under a unified club system.

1. Men’s Team

Represents Rice Lake CF in competitive leagues.

• Compete in sanctioned leagues (WPSL / UPSL / USL / MLS NEXT / MLS)
• Represent the Club professionally
• Serve as pathway for younger players

Structure:

• Roster selected by Coaching Staff
• Full competitive standards
• Performance and behavior required

2. Women’s Team

• Compete in sanctioned leagues (WPASL / NWSL)
• Represent the Club professionally
• Serve as pathway for younger players

Structure:

• Roster selected by tryouts
• Same standards as Men’s Team
• Fully integrated in Club system

3. Academy Teams

The Academy is the development foundation.

• Develop youth players
• Provide structured training
• Prepare players for senior teams

Structure:

• Age groups
• Technical development
• Long term growth focus

Section 2: Player Pathway

Academy → Senior Teams

• Promotion based on performance
• Train with senior teams
• Progress to rosters

Based on:

• Skill
• Work ethic
• Club values

Section 3: Team Standards

• Follow bylaws
• Follow Core Values
• Professional conduct
• Respect in all competitions

No team operates independently.

Section 4: Expansion of Teams

• More academy teams
• Reserve teams
• Futsal / indoor
• Community programs

All must be approved by Club Director.

Section 5: Coaching Assignment

• Player development
• Tactics
• Discipline

All coaches under Club Director.

Section 6: Unity of the Club

• One identity
• One culture
• One standard
• Collaboration between teams

Section 1: Funding

Rice Lake CF operates through a diversified funding model.

1. Sponsorships

• Business partnerships
• Branding & marketing agreements
• Long-term sponsors

2. Academy Player Fees

(Not applicable during 2026–2027 season, review in 2028)

• Registration fees
• Uniform fees
• Support Club sustainability

3. Donations

• Individual contributions
• Recurring support
• Used for development

4. Merchandise Sales

• Jerseys
• Training gear
• Fan merchandise

5. Events and Club Activities

• Tournaments
• Friendly matches
• Soccer camps
• Community events
• Fundraisers
• Sponsor showcases

All events must support the Club mission.

Section 2: Financial Use

1. League & Competition Costs

• League fees
• Referees
• Travel

2. Player Development

• Men’s team
• Women’s team
• Academy

3. Equipment & Uniforms

• Kits
• Training gear
• Equipment maintenance

4. Facilities

• Field rental
• Field maintenance
• Game-day setup

5. Marketing & Operations

• Social media
• Content creation
• Sponsor materials
• Admin costs

6. Club Growth

• New teams
• Academy expansion
• Community programs
• Infrastructure

Section 3: Financial Management & Transparency

1. Responsible Management

• Integrity
• Accountability
• Aligned with mission

2. Allocation of Funds

• Player development
• Competitive success
• Club growth

3. Sustainability

• Diversified revenue
• Long-term sponsors
• Strategic investment

4. Reporting & Accountability

• Annual summary
• Sponsors
• Leadership

Reports may include:

• Funds raised
• Expenses overview
• Growth highlights

Section 1: Sponsor Role

Sponsors of Rice Lake CF are official partners of the Club and play a critical role in supporting its growth, operations, and community impact.

Sponsors gain access to a high visibility, community-driven platform connected with youth, families, and supporters.

1. Premium Visibility

• Exposure through social media and digital content
• Brand presence at matches and events
• Logo placement on uniforms and marketing materials

2. Promotion Across Club Platforms

• Social media posts
• Matchday content
• Sponsor spotlights
• Content integration

3. Game Day & Community Presence

• Recognition during matches
• Banners and branding
• Community engagement

4. Brand Association

• Alignment with values-driven organization
• Association with youth development
• Community pride

5. Long Term Partnership

Sponsors are considered long-term partners, not one-time contributors.

Section 2: Club Responsibility

1. Deliver Value & Exposure

• Consistent visibility
• Strategic promotion
• High-quality media

2. Represent Sponsors Professionally

• Maintain strong image
• Professional players and staff
• Protect sponsor reputation

3. Elevate Sponsor Presence

• Prominent display
• Integration into Club identity
• Pride in partnership

4. Communication

• Regular updates
• Professional contact
• Responsive support

5. Long Term Relationships

• Trust-based partnerships
• Increase sponsor value
• Grow together

Section 3: Sponsorship Standards

• Must align with Club values
• Support mission
• Approved by Club Director

The Club may accept or decline sponsorships.

Section 4: Sponsorship Agreements

• Financial or in-kind support
• Duration of partnership
• Deliverables
• Sponsorship levels

Section 5: Protection of Partnerships

• Avoid sponsor conflicts
• Fair placement
• Respect agreements

Closing Statement

Rice Lake CF views sponsorship as a strategic partnership, not a transaction.

• Deliver value
• Build relationships
• Grow together

Every sponsor is part of the identity and future of Rice Lake CF.

Section 1: Training Standards

Training is fundamental to player development and team success. All players must approach training with commitment, discipline, and professionalism.

1. Mandatory Participation

• All practices are mandatory unless excused
• Players must notify coaches in advance
• Repeated absences may lead to discipline

2. Punctuality & Preparation

• Arrive on time
• Proper gear required
• Bring equipment
• Professional mindset

Late arrivals may result in reduced participation.

3. Effort & Discipline

• Maximum effort required
• Follow instructions
• No disruptive behavior

Effort is non-negotiable.

4. Attitude & Coachability

• Accept coaching
• Positive attitude
• Willingness to improve

Poor attitude may affect playing time.

5. Team Environment

• Support teammates
• Positive communication
• Respect team unity

Section 2: Match Expectations

1. Professional Representation

• Represent the Club with pride
• Proper uniform required
• Professional behavior

2. Respect & Sportsmanship

• Respect referees
• Respect opponents
• Respect teammates
• No unsportsmanlike conduct

3. Authority of Coaches

• Lineups decided by coaches
• Playing time decided by coaches
• Tactics decided by coaches

Playing time is earned, not guaranteed.

4. Accountability on Match Day

• Arrive on time
• Be prepared
• Support teammates

5. Conduct During Matches

• No arguing with referees
• No disrespect
• No unsportsmanlike behavior
• No actions harming the Club

Violations may result in suspension.

Section 3: Performance & Playing Time

Rice Lake CF follows a merit-based system.

• Training performance
• Effort
• Attitude
• Tactical needs
• Club values

Section 4: Commitment to Excellence

• Continuous improvement
• High standards
• Respect Club identity

Training and competition represent something bigger than the individual.

Section 1: Authority

Enforcement of Club rules is carried out by the Club Director and Coaching Staff.

• Club Director holds final authority
• Coaches enforce daily standards
• All discipline must be fair and consistent

The Club Director may review or override any decision.

Section 2: Disciplinary Actions

Violations may result in:

• Verbal warning
• Written warning
• Reduced playing time
• Suspension
• Removal from squad
• Probation
• Termination of membership

Decisions based on:

• Severity
• Repetition
• Impact on team

Section 3: Zero Tolerance Policy

• Violence
• Harassment
• Discrimination
• Serious misconduct

Violations may result in immediate suspension or termination.

Section 4: Fairness & Anti-Favoritism

1. Merit-Based Standard

• Playing time based on performance
• Effort
• Attitude
• Commitment
• Tactical needs

2. No Favoritism

• No family preference
• No friendships influence
• No external pressure

3. Coach Accountability

• Objective decisions
• No conflicts of interest
• Act for team benefit

Violations may lead to review or removal.

Section 5: Reporting & Protection

1. Right to Report

• Policy violations
• Unfair decisions
• Favoritism
• Abuse of authority

2. Good Faith

Reports must be honest and without malicious intent.

3. Protection from Retaliation

• No punishment for reporting
• No reduced playing time
• No negative treatment

4. False Claims

False or malicious reports may result in discipline.

5. Review Process

• Director review
• Objective evaluation
• Final decision issued

Section 6: Shared Responsibility

• Uphold standards
• Protect integrity
• Promote accountability

Discipline is upheld by the entire Club.

Section 1: Social Media

All members of Rice Lake CF are public representatives of the Club at all times, including online. Social media activity affects the reputation and growth of the Club.

1. Positive Representation

• Represent the Club positively
• Show respect and professionalism
• Reflect Club values

2. Inappropriate Content

Includes but not limited to:

• Offensive or explicit content
• Drugs or illegal activity
• Disrespect toward teammates or coaches
• Bullying or harassment
• Discrimination
• Violence or threats
• Unprofessional behavior
• Content damaging the Club reputation

Applies to posts, comments, stories, and shares.

3. Prohibited Conduct

• No inappropriate posts
• No public criticism of the Club
• No online arguments
• No content harming team unity

4. Club Promotion

• Share announcements
• Engage with Club content
• Participate in media when requested

Media participation is part of representing Rice Lake CF.

5. Use of Club Identity

• Use logo respectfully
• No commercial use without approval
• No misuse of brand

6. Personal Accountability

• Responsible for online presence
• Avoid negative public perception

Section 2: Public Representation

Members represent the Club at:

• Matches
• Training
• Events
• Travel
• Public interactions

1. Professional Conduct

• Respectful behavior
• Proper communication
• Maintain Club standards

2. Sponsor Representation

• Respect sponsors
• No harmful statements
• Support sponsor visibility

3. Media Statements

• Only authorized people speak for Club
• No sharing internal information
• No misrepresentation

Section 3: Enforcement

Violations may result in:

• Content removal
• Warning
• Suspension
• Loss of playing time
• Termination

Based on:

• Severity
• Intent
• Impact on Club

Section 1: Authority to Amend

These bylaws may be updated by the Club Director, who holds final authority over the governance of Rice Lake CF.

• Support Club growth
• Improve operations
• Address new challenges
• Maintain alignment with Club values

Section 2: Foundational Bylaws Protection (2026 Charter)

The 2026 bylaws are the foundational charter of Rice Lake CF.

• Core values cannot be removed
• Future changes must respect the foundation
• No change may alter original intent

No amendment may:

• Contradict Club values
• Undermine fairness
• Damage Club identity

Section 3: Nature of Amendments

• Additions
• Clarifications
• Structural improvements

Changes must strengthen the Club, not replace its foundation.

Section 4: Consultation

Input may be considered from:

• Coaches
• Staff
• Stakeholders

Final decision belongs to the Club Director.

Section 5: Communication

• All changes documented
• Members notified
• Compliance required

Section 6: Effective Date

Amendments take effect immediately unless stated otherwise.

Section 7: Record of Changes

• All amendments recorded
• Dates documented

These bylaws represent the official governing document of Rice Lake CF.