Know the game FAIR PLAY CODE

by Robert "Fergusson"Mukabi.
partially adapted and copied from the internet

Fair Play Code is an ethical and moral principle conduct document, FIFA imposes on its governance body as a credo in order to maintain the good repute and development of the game.

Ten in number the otherwise known as "The Ten Golden Rules" intend to form a close co-operation and patronage amongst all footballing stakeholders in the world. They include:

• Playing Fair

Winning has no pleasure if victory has been acquired through deceit and cunning. Playing fair is the only way a game is worth participating in. Games are for the enjoyment of all contestants.

• Play to win but accept defeat with dignity

There's an Old Swahili saying Asiyekubali kushindwa si mshindani, translates to He who is a bad loser is also a bad winner. Games are played to determine a winner, all opponents aim for this very goal, to win. But there can be only one winner, so the loser should accept defeat and strive to improve his skills for another contest.

• Observe the Laws of the Game

There is nowhere you will find absolutely no rules, instructions, regulations or laws all at the same time. Football is an interesting game to learn how to play and even more enjoyable to play. Sometimes called the "beautiful game" in the world by some football romantics, it has simple rules and regulations that make it fun both to play and watch.

• Respect opponents, team-mates, referees, officials and spectators

Fair Play means respect. Respect is part of our game. Without opponents there can be no game. Everyone has the same rights, including the right to be respected. Team-mates are colleagues. Form a team in which all members are equal. Referees are there to maintain discipline and Fair Play.

• Promote the interests of football

Football is the world's greatest game. But it always needs everybody's help to maintain its greatness. Think of football's interests before your own. Think how your actions may affect the image of the game. Talk about the positive things in the game.

• Honour those who defend football's good reputation

Those in a position to make known footballing Greats should do so as a gesture of Fair Play in a bid to improve the standards of the game. By donating, funding or contributing positively towards the improvement of the sport.

• Reject corruption, drugs, racism, violence, gambling and other dangers to our sport

Football is a sporting activity that serves as a deterrent to negative behaviors, and sport is peace.

Say no to discrimination, drugs, violence, crime, GUNS and WAR.

• Help others to resist corrupting pressures

Every Footballer should stand firm against influences that can bring discredit to his character and tarnish the good name of the game. He should desist from cheating, match fixing, and illegal gambling.

• Denounce those who attempt to discredit our sport

Do not be ashamed to stand up to anybody who you are sure is trying to make others cheat or engage in other unacceptable behaviour. It is better to expose them and have them removed before they can do any damage. It is equally dishonest to go along with a dishonest act.

• Use football to make a better world

Football has an incredible power, which can be used to make this world a better place in which everyone can live. Use this powerful platform to promote peace, equality, health and education for everyone.