Epac introduces player code of conduct

Epac FC will set the tone in punishing players for on-field misconduct following the introduction of a code of conduct at the club.

On the local scene, clubs only punish players for off-field misdemeanours unlike in other countries where players also account for their behaviour on the pitch.

Epac coach Leo Mpulula said the move is aimed at instilling discipline among players, noting that on the local scene, the emphasis is on punishing players that have misbehaved off the field.

“In most cases, punishment is only [given] when players have misbehaved off the pitch, but we want to extend it to on-field incidences because there have been cases when players have behaved irresponsibly on the pitch, leading to unnecessary punishments such as red cards which put the club at a disadvantage.

“We want to set the pace by ensuring that players should abide by the code of conduct starting from this weekend’s games,” said Mpulula, considered  one of the no-nonsense coaches on the domestic scene.

Football Players Association (FPA) chairperson Ojukwu Malunga commended Epac for the move, saying other teams need to follow suit.

“In fact, it is long-overdue because elsewhere such is the practice,” said Malunga. n