GENERAl REGUlATiONS

general regulationsgeneral regulationsREG 1LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE STRUCTURESREG 1.1 To achieve representation in local issues, and provide access to central representationand communication, the Member Institutions are arranged in Regions in the geographicalareas, structural or political groups, or nations defined or recognised by the AGM as:REG 1.1.1 ScotlandREG 1.1.2 WalesREG 1.1.3 Northern IrelandREG 1.1.4 North WestREG 1.1.5 West MidlandsREG 1.1.6 North EastREG 1.1.7 EastREG 1.1.8 YorkshireREG 1.1.9 LondonREG 1.1.10 South EastREG 1.1.11 South WestREG 1.1.12 East MidlandsREG 1.2 Each Regional Executive Group should include student and non student membersto support its activities.REG 1.2.1 Each Regional Executive Group should elect a student chair and anon student chair.REG 1.2.2 These two elected chairs will sit on the BUCS Chairs ForumREG 1.3 Nothing in a Regional Constitution shall contradict the BUCS Constitution andRegulations, which shall take precedence in the event of conflict.REG 1.4 Each Regional Executive Group shall, as appropriate and in line with the Regional Constitution:REG 1.4.1 Elect a student representative to serve on the Local RepresentativeStructure Chairs Forum, and an alternate representative in the event thatthe elected representative is unavailable to attend.REG 1.4.2 Recommend initiatives and policies for the development of BUCS andthe sporting programme.REG 1.5 Each Regional Committee will meet at least three times a year, in line with the annualmeeting calendar agreed by The Board.REG 1.6 Composition of the RegionsThe following regions shall comprise the English Universities Sport (EUS)REG 1.6.1 North WestBlackburn CollegeBoltonBurnleyCentral LancashireChester (Chester)Chester (Warrington)CumbriaEdge HillHarper AdamsKeeleLancasterLiverpoolLiverpool HopeLiverpool John MooresManchesterManchester MetropolitanMMU CheshireSalfordREG 1.6.2 West MidlandsAstonBirminghamBirmingham CityCoventryNewmanStaffordshireUniversity College Birmingham WarwickWolverhamptonWorcesterREG 1.6.3 North EastDurhamNewcastleNorthumbriaTeessideSunderlandREG 1.6.4 EastAnglia Ruskin (Cambridge)Anglia Ruskin (Chelmsford)Bedfordshire (Luton)CambridgeEast AngliaEssexHertfordshireUniversity Campus SuffolkWrittle21general regulations

general regulationsREG 1.7REG 1.6.5 YorkshireAskham Byan College (York) Bishop BurtonBradfordHuddersfieldHullLeedsLeeds CarnegieLeeds CityLeeds College of ArtLeeds Trinity University CollegeRichmond Int. (Leeds)SheffieldSheffield HallamYorkYork St. JohnREG 1.6.6 East MidlandsBedfordshire (Bedford)Bishop GrossetesteDerbyDerby (Buxton)De MontfortLeicesterLincolnLoughboroughNorthamptonNottinghamNottingham TrentREG 1.6.7 LondonArtsBrunelCityEast LondonGreenwichGoldsmithsImperialImperial MedicsKing’s CollegeKing’s College MedicsKingstonLondon MetropolitanLondon South BankLondon School of EconomicsLondon (ULU)Queen MaryMiddlesexRoyal Veterinary CollegeRoyal Free & University College School of Oriental & African Studies(SOAS)Medics (RUMS)St Bartholomews & Royal LondonRoyal HollowaySt Mary’sSchool of Speech and Drama West LondonSt George’s HospitalWestminsterUniversity College LondonREG 1.6.8 South EastBrightonBuckinghamBuckinghamshire NewCanterbury Christ ChurchChichesterCranfieldCreative ArtsKentMedwayOxfordOxford BrookesPortsmouthReadingRoehamptonSouthamptonSouthampton SolentSurreySussexWinchesterREG 1.6.9 South WestBathBath SpaBournemouthBristolExeterGloucestershirePlymouthRoyal Agricultural CollegeUCP MarjonsUniversity College FalmouthUWEUWE HartpuryScottish Student Sport (SSS)AberdeenAbertayDundeeEdinburghEdinburgh NapierGlasgowGlasgow CaledonianHeriot WattQueen Margaret’sRobert GordonScottish Agricultural College St AndrewsStirlingStrathclydeUHI Millennium InstituteWest of Scotland22

general regulationsREG 1.8 BUCS WalesAberystwythBangorCardiffCardiff MedicsGlamorganGlyndwrSwanseaSwansea MetTrinity CollegeUW NewportUWICREG 1.9 Northern Ireland Universities Sports Committee (NIUSC)Queen’s BelfastUlsterREG 1.10 For the purposes of team competition, institutions shall be divided into Conferences,as determined by the AGM. Conferences will be made up as follows:REG 1.10.1 The South Eastern ConferenceAnglia Ruskin (Chelmsford) Imperial Medics Royal Free & University College MedicsArts Hertfordshire Royal HollowayBrighton Kent Royal Veterinary CollegeBrunel King’s College School of Speech and DramaBuckingham King’s College Medics School of Oriental and AfricanBuckinghamshire New KingstonStudies (SOAS)Canterbury Christ Church London (ULU) St Bartholomews & Royal LondonChichester London Metropolitan St George’s HospitalCity London School of Economics St Mary’sCreative Arts (Kent) London South Bank SurreyCreative Arts (Surrey) Medway SussexEast London Middlesex West LondonEssex Portsmouth University Campus SuffolkGoldsmiths Queen Mary University College LondonGreenwich Reading WestminsterImperial Roehampton WrittleREG 1.10.2 The Western ConferenceAberystwyth Glamorgan UCP MarjonBath Gloucestershire University College FalmouthBath Spa Plymouth UW NewportBournemouth Royal Agricultural College UW Trinity St David’sBristol Southampton UWECardiff Southampton Solent UWE HartpuryCardiff Medics Swansea UWICExeter Swansea Metropolitan WinchesterREG 1.10.3 The Midlands ConferenceAnglia Ruskin (Cambridge) De Montfort NorthamptonAston Derby NottinghamBedfordshire (Bedford) Derby (Buxton) Nottingham TrentBirmingham East Anglia OxfordBirmingham City Grimsby Institute Oxford BrookesBishop Grosseteste Harper Adams StaffordshireBuckingham Leicester University College BirminghamCambridge Lincoln WarwickCoventry Loughborough WolverhamptonCranfield Newman WorcesterREG 1.10.4 The Northern ConferenceAskham Bryan College (York) Glyndwr Manchester MetropolitanBangor Huddersfield MMU CheshireBishop Burton College Hull NewcastleBlackburn College Keele NorthumbriaBlackpool & Flyde Lancaster Queen’s BelfastBolton Leeds Richmond Int. (Leeds)Bradford Leeds City College SalfordBurnley College (UCLAN) Leeds College of Art SheffieldCentral Lancashire Leeds Metropolitan Carnegie Sheffield Hallamgeneral regulations23

general regulationsChester (Chester) Leeds Trinity SunderlandChester (Warrington) Liverpool TeessideCumbria Liverpool Hope UlsterDurham Liverpool John Moores YorkEdge Hill Manchester York St JohnREG 1.10.5 The Scottish ConferenceAberdeen Glasgow Caledonian StirlingAbertay Heriot Watt StrathclydeDundee West of Scotland Scottish Agricultural CollegeEdinburgh Queen Margaret’s UHI Millennium InstituteEdinburgh NapierRobert GordonGlasgowSt AndrewsREG 2REG 3NEW MEMBER INSTITUTION GUIDELINESAny institution which applies for membership of the company in order to participate in thesports programme must comply with the following guidelines:REG 2.1 That new members demonstrate that they have access to suitable facilities for thecompetitions which they have entered.REG 2.2 That new members have a central point of contact with whom fixture arrangementscan be discussed.REG 2.3 That the point of contact be available daily between the hours of 10am and 4pm.REG 2.4 New applicants shall commence playing BUCS fixtures in the season following theiradmission at the AGM on the proviso that their subscription has been paid in accordancewith the correct regulations.REG 2.5 No new entrant shall be entitled to join the BUCS competition mid-season.FINANCE REGULATIONSREG 3.1 Annual SubscriptionREG 3.1.1 The Annual Subscription must be paid by 1 October each year. Failure byany institution to pay its annual subscription shall result in suspension ofthat institution from membershipREG 3.1.2 The CEO may temporarily suspend from participation in all BUCS activitiesany member institution which has not paid the subscription as of the 1October. Payments received after this date will be subject to a 5% fine. Anymember institution that remains suspended as at the first day of the leagueprogramme will be unable to play in any BUCS Competitions.REG 3.2 Entry FeesREG 3.2.1 Team entries for the following season must be received via the BUCSwebsite by the date set by the BUCS office.REG 3.2.2 Team entry fees are payable by 1 October of that year.REG 3.2.3 Should an institution withdraw a team/individual from a BUCS competitionafter the relevant closing date, they will not be eligible to receive an entryfee refund.REG 3.2.4 The CEO may temporarily suspend from participation in all BUCS activitiesany member institution which has not paid their team entry fee as of the 1October. Payments received after this date will be subject to a 5% fine. Anymember institution that remains suspended as at the first day of the leagueprogramme will be unable to play in any BUCS Competitions.REG 3.3 AccountsREG 3.3.1 Cheques and money orders shall be made payable to the “BritishUniversities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)”REG 3.4Travel ClaimsREG 3.4.1REG 3.4.2Travel and subsistence for The Board, Executive Group members, TechnicalRepresentatives, and others acting on behalf of BUCS, shall be submittedonly on the current Expenses Claim Form.Amounts claimed must be within the limits set out on the form and must beaccompanied by the appropriate receipts of expenditure.24

general regulationsREG 3.5REG 3.6REG 3.7DisclaimerREG 3.5.1BUCS cannot accept any liability for any death, accident, injury or loss ofproperty sustained by a Board member, Executive Group member, TechnicalRepresentative or others acting on behalf of the Association.Representative Nomination FormsREG 3.6.1 Nomination forms for BUCS representative sport (including English,Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Universities and internationalrepresentation) will be accepted only if signed by an official representativeof the Athletic Union (or equivalent).REG 3.6.2 Two signatures will be required on such forms:REG 3.6.2.1 One to signify the support of that institution for a playerbeing put forward for representative selection.REG 3.6.2.2 One to confirm the acceptance by that institution of liabilityfor the costs incurred by that player / competitor during thecourse of that season’s representative programme.REG 3.6.2.3 Institutions are entitled to sign part a) of the nominationform supporting the student while declining to acceptresponsibility for costs incurred (i.e. not signing for asecond time).REG 3.6.2.4 Students for whom their institution will not support theirnomination for representative selection will have the rightto appeal to BUCS’s Disciplinary Committee who shallconsider the dispute in an appropriate timescale whenissuing nomination forms.REG 3.6.2.5 BUCS will endeavour to provide an accurate assessment ofpossible costs that could be incurred.Disciplinary FinesREG 3.7.1 Where an institution is subject to a financial penalty following proceedingsof the Company’s Disciplinary Committee, that institution will pay the saidpenalty within thirty days of dispatch of invoice.general regulationsREG 4. CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR INDIVIDUALSREG 4.1 Championships for Individuals in the following sports and in such additional sports asshall be decided by the CEO, shall be held annually at venues decided by theCEO:Archery – Indoor*Archery – Indoor*Archery – Outdoor*Athletics – Cross-Country*Athletics – Decathlon & HeptathlonAthletics – Indoor*Athletics – MarathonAthletics – Outdoor*BadmintonBoxingCanoe – Slalom*Canoe – Wild Water*Clay Pigeon*Climbing*Cycling *Equestrian*FencingGolf - Strokeplay*Gymnastics - Artistic*Ju Jitsu*Judo*Karate*Modern Biathlon*Modern Pentathlon*Orienteering*PoolRifle – Full Bore*Rifle – Small Bore*Rowing – Champs & Beginners HeadRowing – RegattaRowing – Small Boats HeadRugby FivesSailingSnooker*Snowsports - Dry Slope*Snowsports - Alpine*SquashSurfing*Swimming - Long CourseSwimming - Short CourseTable TennisTennisTenpin Bowling*Trampolining*Triathlon*WakeboardingWindsurfing**Note: There will be a team element offered alongside the Individual Championship.REG 4.2 RegulationsThe Championships shall be conducted according to the rules of the International Governing Body ofthe sport concerned and according to the special regulations laid down for each competitionas detailed in these regulations and the sports specific rules.REG 4.3 EventsA complete list of individual events contained within each of the above Championships is contained inAppendix 1. Amendments and additions to this list can only be made with the endorsementof the CEO on the recommendation of the relevant Sports Advisory Group (SAG).25

general regulationsREG 5 TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS (A)(Not conducted as part of the Premier and Conference League Programme)REG 5.1 BUCS may promote annually Team Championships to ascertain the BUCS Champions inthe following sports:Archery - IndoorArchery - OutdoorAthletics - Cross CountryAthletics - IndoorAthletics - OutdoorCanoe - PoloCanoe - SlalomCanoe - Wild WaterClay PigeonClimbingCross CountryCycling (various)EquestrianFutsalGaelic Football (Men)Gymnastics - ArtisticJu JitsuJudoKarateKorfballModern BiathlonModern PentathlonOrienteeringPoolRifle - Full BoreRifle - Small BoreRugby Union - 7-a-sideSailingSnookerSnowsports - Dry SlopeSnowsports - AlpineSurfingSwimming TeamTenpin BowlingTrampoliningUltimate FrisbeeWindsurfingREG 5.2REG 5.3RegulationsThe Championships shall be conducted according to the rules of the InternationalGoverning Body of the sport concerned and according to the specific regulations laiddown for each competition as detailed in these regulations and the sports specific rules.EventsA complete list of individual events contained within each of the above Championships iscontained in Appendix 1. Amendments and additions to this list can only be made with theendorsement of the CEO.REG 6 TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS (B)(Conducted as part of the Premier and Conference League Programme)REG 6.1 The following regulations are applicable to the Team Championships of the Company,conducted as part of the Premier and Conference League programme.REG 6.2 BUCS shall promote annually Championships organised on a league basis. The structurewill provide qualifiers for two national knockout competitions and a conference basedknockout competition.Championship (national)Trophy (national)Conference CupConference Plate (An option for conferences where conference cup draws exceed64 teams)This structure will apply to the following sports:BadmintonBasketballCricket (Indoor and Outdoor)FencingFootballGolfHockeyLacrosseNetball (Women)Rugby League (Men)*Rugby UnionSquashTable TennisTennisVolleyballWaterpolo*In the case of Rugby League a national shield competition exists in place of theconference cup.REG 6.3REG 6.4BUCS will operate Premier Leagues in Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Fencing, Football,Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Netball, Rugby Union, Rugby League, Squash, Table Tennis(Men’s only) and Tennis.Premier Leagues operate to the same general and sports specific regulations asConference Leagues with the following exceptions:REG 6.4.1REG 6.4.2Where a Premier League has six or more teams, then the bottom team atthe end of the season will be relegated automatically (for exceptions to thissee league caveats).Where a Premier League has four or five teams, the bottom team will playoffagainst the best of the Tier One winners as determined by the BUCSOffice. Unless sport specific regulations state otherwise.26

general regulationsREG 6.5REG 6.6REG 6.7REG 6.4.3 When four teams are in a qualifying position for a Premier League, the playoffswill take the form of a semi-final and final. The format of which shall bedecided by the BUCS Office.For the purposes of restricting travel, the Premier League North generally comprisesinstitutions in Scottish, Northern and Midlands Conferences. The Premier League Southgenerally comprises of institutions in the South Eastern and Western Conferences.However, the following Midlands institutions will be placed in the Premier League Southshould they qualify – Anglia Ruskin, Cranfield, Cambridge, Bedfordshire, Oxford andOxford Brookes.With the exception of Rugby League, Rugby Union and Tennis, only first teams arepermitted to play in Premier Leagues.EventsA complete list of competitions contained within each of the above Championships is containedin Appendix 1. Additions to this list can only be made with the endorsement of the CEO.REG 7. ELIGIBILITYREG 7.1REG 7.2Eligible ParticipantsFor a student to be eligible for BUCS Individual Championships or to represent his/heruniversity in BUCS Team Championships and in BUCS Domestic Representative matches,he/she shall:REG 7.1.1REG 7.1.2REG 7.1.3REG 7.1.4REG 7.1.5REG 7.1.6Be an internally registered 1 student at an institution of Higher or FurtherEducation (and aged 18 or over in the case of FE) that holds currentmembership of the Company andBe registered on a credit rated course (e.g. MSc, Degree or HND) 2 , andBe undertaking a study programme equivalent to at least 60 credits peryear, or in the case of a postgraduate student be undertaking a studyprogramme of no less than 50% of the full time student programme. HEinstitutions that have FE students registered with them and undertaking aminimum of 225 Guided Learning Hours are eligible to compete in BUCScompetitions as long as they fulfil their National Governing Body regulationson age, andBe a player who is permitted by the National Governing Body of the sportconcerned to participate alongside amateur competition in that sport; andHave paid the appropriate Union or Athletic Union subscription.Students may only compete for the institution(s) with whom they areinternally registered.Special Cases for ParticipationThe following persons are classified as eligible to participate in BUCS IndividualChampionships or to represent his/her university in BUCS Team Championships and inDomestic Representative matches:REG 7.2.1 A student who is fully registered as an internal student at more than oneBUCS member institution (and is by BUCS regulations eligible to competefor each of those institutions) may choose, annually, on a sport-by-sportbasis, from among the institutions which they are eligible, which of thosemember institutions to represent (noting REG 7.2.2 below).REG 7.2.2 No student may compete in the same sport for more than oneinstitution in any one academic year.REG 7.2.3 A sabbatical officer of either a Students’ Union or an Athletic Union who haspaid the appropriate Union or Athletic Union subscription.REG 7.2.4 A student satisfactorily finishing his/her course of study between Decemberand March or later until the end of the academic year provided his/herUnion or Athletic Union subscription has been paid and his/her institutionstill classifies them as a registered student.REG 7.2.5 A student embarking on a Sandwich Course and/or Year Abroad courseprovided all of the following:REG 7.2.5.1 The appropriate fee has been paid to their Athletic Union,andREG 7.2.5.2 Their Athletic Union has paid affiliation fees to BUCS onhis/her behalf, andgeneral regulations1a student who is classified by the university Registrar as a student who is studying at the member institution orassigned campus in an internal classification.2that is a course that is registered under CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme)27

general regulationsREG 7.3REG 7.4REG 7.5REG 7.6REG 7.2.5.3 The duration of the course in industry is less than one year.REG 7.2.5.4 Officers of Athletic Unions at universities should in cases ofdoubt refer the circumstances to the BUCS CEOIneligible ParticipantsThe following students are ineligible to participate:REG 7.3.1 Externally registered students, as determined by the University’s Registrar.REG 7.3.2 Students undertaking ‘foundation’ courses are only eligible if theirinstitution’s Registry Office (or equivalent) deems them to fulfil the BUCSeligibility requirements; i.e. are internally registered students of the BUCSmember institution and are studying an appropriate course as listed above.Acceptable Governing BodyThe CEO of BUCS shall determine, from time to time, which student organisations shall beacceptable as bodies equivalent to an Athletic Union and performing the function of sucha body.Team SelectionIn team sports which incorporate competition below First Team level, each team shouldbe selected as though the other teams would be playing in a match of equal importanceat the same time. It would be expected that the first team would always be the strongestteam available to represent that institution. Teams must be selected as if all teams areplaying on a given day, for example, if the first team do not have a match but the secondteam do, no players who would normally represent the first team are eligible to play forthe second team. Individuals may not play or be a substitute (playing or non-playing) fordifferent teams on the same date, but may play for a different team in a different sporton the same day. Individuals may not play for different teams in the same round of theknockout stages, even if those rounds take place on different dates, but may play for adifferent team in a different sport on the same day.Each university Club MUST observe the following procedures:REG 7.6.1 In all league matches and subsequent knockout round matches, theFirst Team or higher fixture must be given priority should an institutionbe unable to fulfil its complete programme within each sport. Matchesplayed in contravention of this regulation will be awarded to the opposition,or in certain circumstances, be voided. For example, an institution may NOTconcede a walkover at Second Team level, while continuing to field a lowerteam on the same day.REG 7.6.2 Under no circumstances may a player be permitted to compete fora team of the opposite sex, with the exception of specific mixed sexChampionships.REG 8. DURATION OF MATCHES & CONDITIONS OF PLAYREG 8.1 The duration of all matches shall normally be as laid down by the International SportsGoverning Body concerned, for senior matches, except as specifically indicated within thesport specific regulations.REG 8.2 It is the responsibility of the host institution to provide the correct conditions and timeavailability for a match (as laid down in the rules and regulations in the relevant sportspecific regulations or by the Governing Body) to take place. This includes facilities,equipment, first aid cover and playing time. This is especially prevalent in matches whereextra time may be required.REG 8.3 It is the responsibility of the host institution to ensure that all match officials are awareof the BUCS general and sports specific regulations, especially where these differ fromNational Governing Body (NGB) regulations.REG 8.4 In normal circumstances, all matches should be completed as per REG 8.1. However, inexceptional circumstances, and where the correct playing conditions have been satisfied,the duration of a match may be reduced with the written consent of both teams and theagreement of the match official where appropriate, prior to the start of that match. Onceagreement has been reached, the result from this fixture cannot be appealed.REG 8.5 If agreement cannot be reached, matches should take place following the completion of a‘Playing Under Protest’ form.REG 8.6 In knockout rounds, because a result must be obtained on the day of the fixture, noticemust be paid to the sports specific rules that apply when no result has been obtained atthe end of full time.REG 8.7 BUCS reserves the right to adjust the duration of matches at centrally organised tournaments.28

general regulationsREG 8.8REG 8.9REG 8.10Access to facilities should be free of charge to competitors from away teams.Where these charges exist, they are the responsibility of the home team as part of itshosting obligations unless stipulated in sports specific regulations.Regardless of start time, if the fixture is played in accordance with REG 8.4 the resultwill stand.Results from matches abandoned by the match official(s) before the completion of normal timewill not stand unless alternative provision is made under the BUCS sports specific regulations.REG 9. RESULTSREG 9.1REG 9.2REG 9.3REG 9.4REG 9.5REG 9.6REG 9.7REG 9.8REG 9.9The results of all League and knockout round matches, should be recorded on the BUCSwebsite no later than 10am on the first working day following the fixture.Results of ‘Home’ fixtures should be entered by the appropriate InstitutionalRepresentative. A confidential institution-specific password for access to the websitewill have been issued to named Institutional officials for this purpose. These namedInstitutional officials will be responsible for all entries made on the BUCS website,accessed via their password.Institutions are responsible for ensuring that the results of all their matches (home andaway) are entered into the BUCS website correctly. If an institution believes the result ofan ‘away’ match has been entered incorrectly by their opposition they should contactthat institution in the first instance and the BUCS Office thereafter. Matches for whichincorrect results have been entered and not amended by the institutions involvedcannot be altered after the deadline in REG 12.9.4 and 12.9.5Institutions are not required to submit results of their home and away matches to theBUCS Office other than via the BUCS website unless detailed within the sports specificregulations or requested by the Competitions Manager.Where a team has forfeited a match it is imperative that the result is entered into the BUCSwebsite as a “walkover” to the appropriate team by the deadline detailed in REG 12.9.4Please also note REG 12.9.6. Under no circumstances can a false result be added tothe BUCS website.Where a competition is organised on a Premier or Conference league basis, three pointswill be awarded for a win, one point for a draw and no points for a loss (unless sportsspecific regulations state differently).No points will be awarded to either team in the case of a void fixture.Where a walkover has been awarded, three points shall be given to the non-offendingteam and three points deducted from the offending team (unless sports specificregulations state differently).When calculating a final league table, a tie on points within that league will be split by thefollowing sequential system (unless sports specific regulations state differently):REG 9.9.1 Where there is a tie between two teams, for whatever position in the league,the result between the teams will be the determining factor in placing oneteam above the other. Where fixtures are played on a home and away basis,the aggregate score of the two matches (or more) will determine the higherplaced team.REG 9.9.2 Where more than two teams are tied on points, a table shall be formed tocalculate the higher placed team from the results between the relevant teams.REG 9.9.3 Goal/Set/Point/Rubber difference as applicable to each sport (Games in Golf.)REG 9.9.4REG 9.9.5REG 9.9.6The higher number of Goals/Sets/Points/Rubber scored (Games in Golf)Where a tie on points has been effected by a walkover or a void fixture, allthe relevant results against the team which conceded the walkover or theteam involved in the void fixture (i.e. all the results between the teams tiedon points and the team(s) conceding the walkover(s)/void match) will beremoved from the results table and the re-calculated goal/set/point/rubber(dependent on the sport) difference shall be used to determine the higherplaced team.In the sports of Badminton, Squash, Table Tennis and Tennis, where thehigher placed team cannot be determined by points REG 9.9.1 to REG9.9.4 above, then the team with the higher ‘games’ difference (not rubbers/matches) or equivalent shall be deemed the higher placed team. As per sportsspecific regulations for basketball, badminton, squash, table tennis and tennisinstitutions will be responsible for supplying full records of all matches in thesesports on official Governing Body scorecards if requested by the BUCS Office.general regulations29

general regulationsREG 9.9.7REG 9.9.8If the higher placed team cannot be determined from the system above,then this shall be determined by the toss of a coin in the BUCS Office.REG 9.9 does not apply to cricket, where league finishing position for teamstied on points is determined by overall net run rate (see cricket specificregulations on the BUCS website for net run rate calculation method).REG 10REG 11MATCH PREMIER LEAGUE GENERAL REQUIREMENTSAll fixtures must be fulfilled. Any team failing to complete all of their Premier League programmeincluding Championship knockout round ties as per BUCS General Regulations will be subject todisciplinary action. N.B. all previous Premier League regulations have been incorporated in to theBUCS General Regulations.MATCH OFFICIALS – PREMIER & CONFERENCE LEAGUE SPORTSREG 11.1 These regulations apply to all matches undertaken as part of the BUCS League Programmeand subsequent knockout rounds. Please also see the ‘Officials’ spreadsheet (Appendix 2)which also has neutrality and qualification requirements detailed for each sport.REG 11.2 It is the responsibility of the home team to arrange all appropriate match officials.REG 11.3 An institution cannot appeal against a decision made by an official appropriate for the match.REG 11.4 Definition of NeutralityNeutral shall be taken to mean not being a current student, a full or part time memberof staff, a member of the team or club* or Athletic Union of the institution concerned, orbeing closely related to any member of the team.*A member of the club shall be taken to mean any player, coach, elected officer or team official.REG 11.5 Internationally Qualified or Governing Body Appointed OfficialsWhere an official is qualified to officiate to Senior International Level by the appropriateinternational federation or has been appointed by an appropriate Governing Body regionalor national officials’ appointment board, the neutrality regulation shall not apply.REG 11.6 Failure To Obtain OfficialsREG 11.6.1 Failure to supply the correct officials, as per Appendix 2, will lead tothe forfeiture of the match and the deduction of three points (in leaguematches), with the exception of written notification from the appropriateofficials appointments body that they were unable to provide officials orofficials withdraw from the fixture on the day.REG 11.6.2 In Premier League, Championship, Trophy, Conference Cup (& Shield forRugby League) knockout round matches, if this notice has been given andthe appropriate letters provided, then the away team may choose to host thematch provided it can supply the correct officials and facilities, and notifiesthe opposition and the BUCS Office by 11am on the last working day beforethe fixture. In this case the original home team is obliged to travel.REG 11.6.3 Fixtures in Tier One and below, where the evidence detailed above has beenprovided, the home team must supply qualified, non-neutral officials or willforfeit the match. An away team cannot appeal against the result of a matchplayed under these circumstances.REG 11.6.4 Where the away team chooses not to host the match then the match shallbe replayed at a venue and on a date determined by the BUCS Office.REG 11.7 Failure to Notify Non-Provision of Officials Within 48 Hours of Start TimeREG 11.7.1 Any team failing to notify the opposition of the non-provision of appropriateofficials within the 48-hour deadline (excluding weekends and bankholidays) will forfeit the match and concede a walkover. The only exceptionto this rule will apply when the home team is let down by an appointed orbooked official and can prove in writing that the official was appointed /booked. In this case REG 11.8.2 applies. It would be expected that bothinstitutions would explore all alternatives before a walkover was claimed.REG 11.7.2 If the away team has arrived at the venue and the home team is let down byan appointed or booked official and can prove in writing that the official wasappointed / booked the original home team is obliged to travel.REG 11.7.3 Should the two institutions concerned agree in writing beforehand to playwith non-neutral, qualified and/or incorrect number officials (in matcheswhere neutrality of officials is required) the BUCS Office will accept theresult. Neither team can appeal against the result of a match played underthese circumstances.30

general regulationsREG 11.8Non-Provision of Officials on the Scheduled Day of the FixtureREG 11.8.1 Should the two institutions concerned agree in writing before the away teamhas travelled to play with non-neutral, qualified and/or incorrect number ofofficials (in matches where neutrality of officials is required) the BUCS Officewill accept the result. Teams cannot therefore play under protest or appealagainst the result of a match played under these circumstances.REG 11.8.2 If the away team has arrived at the venue and the home team is let down byan appointed or booked official and can prove in writing that the official wasappointed / booked the original home team is obliged to travel to replay thefixture. If a team has not yet travelled and/or incurred any travel costs, thematch shall be played at the original home team venue.REG 12.FIXTURE ADMINISTRATIONREG 12.1 Athletic Unions or equivalent bodies/person, shall be responsible for the arrangement ofBUCS fixtures, as displayed on the BUCS website.REG 12.2 No league or knockout round match may start before 1pm (except for Tennis, Golf andCricket) without the written consent of both institutions. Similarly no league match shouldbe scheduled to finish at such a time when an away team would unnecessarily arriveback at their institution after midnight. In cases of dispute this would be determined bythe BUCS Office. Start times of knockout round matches should broadly adhere to thesame principles although it is recognised that travel distances may require overnightaccommodation. Semi-final and final stage times shall be determined by the BUCS Office.REG 12.3 In all BUCS leagues, with the exception of the lowest tier of competition, no more than2 teams from one institution can be in the same league.REG 12.4 Double HeadersBUCS will not recognise any matches played as double headers (one match cannotproduce the result for two league fixtures).REG 12.5 Playing ColoursEach University is responsible for informing its opponent of the colours of its playingkit. Should there be a clash of colours, it is the responsibility of the home team tochange its colours. For matches organised by BUCS and played at a neutral venue (i.e.Championship Semi-final or Final), the first named team will be asked to change coloursby the BUCS office in the event of a colour clash.REG 12.6 Notification of FixtureIt is the responsibility of the home team to contact the visiting team in writing (email) to confirmthe fixture details at least 48 hours (outside of weekends and bank holidays) prior to the fixtureand at this time an emergency telephone number shall be exchanged together with the intendedtime of departure of the visiting team. This correspondence should be conducted through therelevant Athletic Union / Sports Office. For Premier Leagues, home teams must provide theiropposition with match information in writing at least 7 days (not working days) prior to the fixture.REG 12.7 Athletic Union / Sports Office representatives MUST update the BUCS websiteimmediately with any amendments to the fixtures once these have been agreed with theopposition. The venues and start times of all home matches should be inputted onto theBUCS website no later than 1 October 2011.REG 12.8 All matches must be played on the set fixture date as set by BUCS unless agreedin writing by both institutions to move the fixture to an alternative date by the fixturecompletion date as set out in REG 12.9.1.REG 12.9 Dates by Which Premier & Conference League Fixtures Must be CompletedREG 12.9.1 All Premier and Tier 1 League fixtures (with the exception of Rugby Union,Squash and Water Polo) must be completed no later than Sunday 18March 2012. Squash and Water Polo fixtures must be completed no laterthan Sunday 5 February 2012. All Rugby Union leagues from Premier Band below and all other sports For Tier 2 and below (with the exception ofSquash and Water Polo), league fixtures must be completed no later thanSunday 25 March 2012. Rugby League dates will be determined by theStudent Rugby League and will be detailed on the BUCS website. Cricketfixtures deadlines will be published with the fixtures.REG 12.9.2 Matches not completed, by the date stated shall be declared void with nopoints being awarded to either side unless there has been a further breachof regulation.REG 12.9.3 For results that have not been inputted onto the BUCS website, the awayinstitution should first contact the home institution with the result of thegeneral regulations31

general regulationsREG 12.10REG 12.11REG 12.9.4REG 12.9.5REG 12.9.6REG 12.9.7match and remind them to add it to the website. As a last resort, the awayinstitution should contact the BUCS Competitions Manager (before thedeadline in 12.9.4) with the result of the match.Athletic Unions will not be able to add or make amendments to Premier orTier 1 results (with the exception of Rugby Union, Squash and Water Polo)of matches on the BUCS website after 10am Monday 19 March 2012.Athletic Unions will not be able to add or make amendments to Premier orTier 1 results for Squash and Water Polo after 10am Monday 6 February2012, Rugby League as determined by the Student Rugby League andCricket whose dates will be published with the fixtures.Institutions will not be able to amend the result of a fixture in all RugbyUnion leagues from Premier B and below and all other sports for Tier 2 andbelow after 10am Monday 26 March 2012.An institution claiming a walkover must notify the opposition in writing.An institution has 24 hours following notification of a walkover to appealagainst that walkover.Forfeited Matches – LeaguesMembers are advised; due to the impact of the integrated league/knockout format beinginitiated for the 2011/12 season, REGS 12.9–12.11 are currently under review. Scenariosto which REGS 12.9-12.11 are applied shall be assessed on a case by case basis by theBUCS office and are subject to the process of appeal outlined in REG 16 .REG 12.10.1 Premier Leagues:Should a team concede one walkover then that team will receive a threepoint league deduction and the loss of half the Overall BUCS Pointsattained through finishing league position. Should a team concede two ormore walkovers then that team will receive automatic relegation, a furtherthree point league deduction, they will be ineligible for progression into theknockout stages and will lose all the Overall BUCS Points attained throughleague finishing position. A further three points to be deducted from theleague points total after each additional walkover.REG 12.10.2 Tier 1Should a team concede one walkover then that team will receive a threepoint league deduction and the loss of half the Overall BUCS Pointsattained through league finishing position. Should a team concede twoor more walkovers then that team will receive a further three point leaguededuction be ineligible for progression into the knockout stages of theChampionship and Trophy and will lose all the Overall BUCS Points attainedthrough league finishing position. A further three points to be deducted fromthe league points total after each additional walkover.REG 12.10.3 Tier 2 and belowShould a team concede one walkover then that team will receive a threepoint league deduction and the loss of half the Overall BUCS Pointsattained through league finishing position. Should a team concede twoor more walkovers then that team will receive a further three point leaguededuction and will lose all the Overall BUCS Points attained through leaguefinishing position. A further three points to be deducted from the leaguepoints total after each additional walkover.REG 12.10.4 Should a team in any BUCS Premier or Conference League concedethree voluntary walkovers they will be fined £50 and a further £50 for eachsubsequent walkover conceded.REG 12.10.4.1 To avoid fines listed in REG 12.10.4 institutions areencouraged to withdrawal teams via their account on theBUCS website, please also note REG 3.2.3.Forfeited Matches – Knockout RoundsREG 12.11.1 Any team forfeiting in a Championship knockout round will be subject to a£500 fine. Any team defaulting in the Trophy knockout rounds will be subjectto a £300 fine. Any team withdrawing from the semi final or final stages of aConference Cup or Conference Plate knockout shall be fined £300.REG 12.11.2 An automatic hearing of the Disciplinary Committee will consider anyextenuating circumstances but will also have the powers to increase thepenalties. Extenuating circumstances must be submitted to the BUCSOffice by no later than 2pm on the next working day following the fixture.32

general regulationsREG 12.12REG 12.13REG 12.14Forfeited Matches – Involuntary & Voluntary (Walkovers):REG 12.12.1 A forfeited match will be deemed to have been caused by involuntary orvoluntary circumstances. An involuntary walkover occurs when it is considered(whether by the BUCS Office or the Disciplinary Committee) that a team hasforfeited on a fixture through reasons beyond the reasonable control of thatteam, club or Athletic Union. A voluntary walkover is deemed to have occurredwhen it is believed that reasonable actions undertaken by the team, club orAthletic Union of the offending institution would have prevented the forfeit.REG 12.12.2 In the first instance all walkovers will be deemed voluntary. For a walkoverto be considered involuntary, an institution must submit a written requestto the BUCS Office by no later than 2pm on the next working day followingreceipt of written notification as per REG 12.9.6 & REG 12.9.7.REG 12.12.3 Teams, clubs or Athletic Unions deemed to have given ‘voluntary walkovers’will be subject to the penalties outlined in REG 12.10.REG 12.12.4 Teams, Clubs or Athletic Unions deemed to have given ‘involuntarywalkovers’ will, in normal circumstances, be deemed to have concededthe match but will not be deducted three points. Further penalties may bewaived as determined by the BUCS Office.Late Cancellation of MatchesREG 12.13.1 Where a team has to cancel a fixture within 48 hours of its agreed starttime, for reasons other than those outlined in REG 15.1, it will be liable forreasonable costs incurred by its opposition. The 48 hour ruling will applyregardless of whether an institution is notified of the cancellation.REG 12.13.2 Institutions wishing to reclaim reasonable costs from their opposition shoulddo so by official invoice within 30 days of the date of the scheduled match.Claims may only be made for actual financial costs incurred by the AthleticUnion or equivalent. Claims may be made for travel expenses, facility hirecharges (or cancellation charges as appropriate), referee / umpires’ fees andcatering costs. Proof of costs incurred must accompany the invoice to theoffending team / institution.REG 12.13.3 If an invoice is disputed, the BUCS Office shall determine whether costs arereasonable and instruct institutions to pay accordingly taking into accountany extenuating circumstances. Invoices should be settled within 30 daysof receipt. The BUCS Office reserves the right to levy an administration feeshould it be required to intervene. Non-payment of invoices will result in theoffending institution being referred to BUCS’s Disciplinary Committee.REG 12.13.4 Matches that have been re-arranged from their original scheduled date orhave had their venue altered will be subject to the same principles outlinedabove. This regulation applies only to matches classified as voluntarywalkovers. Where an institution agrees to re-schedule a cancelled fixturethen the opposition will be liable for costs involved in hosting the originalfixture. This regulation does not apply to matches cancelled due to inclementweather, ‘force majeure’ or walkovers deemed by the BUCS Office as‘involuntary’ (i.e. factors over which the offending institution was notperceived to have control). Matches should be cancelled by written contactwith the official administrative point of contact listed in the BUCS Handbook.Playing Under ProtestREG 12.14.1 If a team feels, upon arrival or during a fixture, the conditions do not adhereto those outlined in the BUCS regulations, or fixture confirmation theyshould complete a ‘Playing Under Protest’ form immediately (forms can bedownloaded from the website)REG 12.14.2 If a team travels to a fixture with prior knowledge of a breach of regulationsthey are deemed to have accepted these conditions of play and cantherefore not play under protest for that reason.REG 12.14.3 The grievance(s) should be clearly stated on the form and must be signedby the captain of the aggrieved team. The opposing captain must thencountersign this form (he/she cannot refuse to do so), failure to do so mayresult in a misconduct charge. He/she then has the opportunity to state his /her opinion regarding this grievance on the Playing Under Protest form.REG 12.14.4 The completion of a Playing Under Protest form allows an institution theright to appeal at the conclusion of the fixture if they feel that the grievancesnoted had an effect on the final result. It does not guarantee the outcomeof any subsequent appeal.general regulations33

general regulationsREG 12.15REG 12.14.5 If a team fails to complete a Playing Under Protest form as above it isdeemed to have accepted the conditions under which it has been playedunless information comes to light after the fixture has been completed.Teams from The Same Institution In The Same LeagueREG 12.15.1 Where two teams from the same institution are in the same league, fixtureswill not be scheduled for the last week of competition. Institutions are alsoforbidden to re-schedule to the last fixture date any fixtures between teamsfrom their own institution. Should this happen the result will be void and nopoints will be awarded to either team.REG 13.KNOCKOUT ROUND MATCHESREG 13.1 Where entry levels permit, BUCS will offer annually in each sport, national (UK) knockoutround stages as follows:REG 13.1.1 ChampionshipREG 13.1.2 TrophyREG 13.1.3 Shield (Rugby League)And conference based knockout round competitions:REG 13.1.4 Conference Cup & Plate (Football Scotland)REG 13.2 Each Premier or Conference League will qualify all teams to a knockout round stage,with the exception of Cricket and Water Polo.REG 13.3 National knockout round draws shall be made based on the league finishing positionsfrom the previous season and will run as part of an integrated league and cup programme.The exception to this will be Squash and Water Polo, which will have the national knockoutcompetitions running following the completion of the league programme.REG 13.4 Conference Cup rounds will be drawn prior to the start of the season and dates will beconfirmed by the BUCS office. All Rugby League knockout round matches and format willbe determined by the Student Rugby League.REG 13.5 The Championship knockout stages shall operate from a Last 16 stage. The Trophyknockout stages shall operate from a last 32 stage.REG 13.6 The format of the draws will be determined by the BUCS office. The dates of the variousrounds, shall be determined by the BUCS Office.REG 13.7 The qualification criteria to the relevant knockout competition(s) shall be stated on the topof each league on the BUCS website.REG 13.8 Where a different number of teams qualifies for a knockout stage from each Conference,this shall be determined based on the performance of teams in the previous season.REG 13.9 All BUCS knockout round matches must take place on the date set by the BUCS Office.Only in exceptional circumstances and with written permission from the BUCS Office mayknockout round matches take place on an alternative date.REG 13.10 All BUCS Knockout round matches must be played to a conclusion. When booking yourfacility allow enough additional time to cater for the sports specific extra time requirements.REG 13.11 Northern Ireland Universities Sports CommitteeTeams from member institutions in Northern Ireland wishing to be considered for inclusionin a BUCS Championship knockout competition, must submit a written request via NIUSCto the BUCS Office at the time team entries are submitted for the following season.REG 13.12 ChampionshipREG 13.12.1 The Championship in each sport shall consist of a maximum of 16 firstteams, drawn (with the exception of Volleyball and Women’s Table Tennis)from the relevant Premier Leagues and also best placed first teams of thefive English, Welsh and Scottish Conference Tier One leagues, exceptionsto this regulation will be noted in the caveats for each league.REG 13.12.2 When establishing the next best first team the following process will be used:Number of points won expressed as a percentage of the total number ofpoints available for that league.Number of points won x 100Total number of points availableREG 13.12.3 In Volleyball and Women’s Table Tennis, qualifiers will be determined fromthe five Conference Tier one leagues.REG 13.12.4 In Golf, the Scottish Conference shall be offered four qualifying places, withqualifiers from English and Welsh Conferences subsequently reduced.34

general regulationsREG 13.13REG 13.14REG 13.15REG 13.16REG 13.12.5 Teams finishing first, second, third and fourth in Premier Leagues shallbe seeded.REG 13.12.6 All other teams will be randomly drawn.REG 13.12.7 The team playing at home will be randomly drawn in the first round.REG 13.12.8 Exceptions to the above are Squash, and Waterpolo (see sportsspecific regulations).REG 13.12.9 The venue of matches in the last 16 and Quarter Final stage shall be firstnamed team at home (with the exception of Basketball and Volleyball whichwill have the final eight teams progressing to the Finals).REG 13.12.10 For fixtures at centrally organised neutral venues, ‘neutral’ does notguarantee that the venue will be equidistant between the teams involved.The BUCS Office shall be responsible for the appointment of officials andother logistics, including costs, for these matches.TrophyREG 13.13.1 The Trophy knockout stage in each sport shall consist of a maximumof 32 teams.REG 13.13.2 Last 32 matches shall be regionalised where possible North and South.REG 13.13.3 Four teams to be seeded based on the four best performing Conferencefrom the previous season’s Trophy. One seeded team per Conference.REG 13.13.4 For fixtures at centrally organised neutral venues, Trophy final venues shallbe at an appropriate neutral venue determined by the BUCS Office. Note that‘neutral’ does not guarantee that the venue will be equidistant between theteams involved. The BUCS Office shall be responsible for the appointment ofofficials and other logistics, including costs, for Trophy finals.Conference Cup & PlateREG 13.14.1 The Conference Cup knockout will be randomly drawn from all teamsfrom Tier 2 and below.REG 13.14.2 The Conference Cup draws shall be made prior to the season by theBUCS office.REG 13.14.3 The finals of the Conference Cup shall be at the venue of the first namedteam unless otherwise instructed by the BUCS Office.In the case of Conference Cup or Conference Plate matches clashing with a scheduledconference league fixture, the cup fixture must take precedence and the league fixturemust be rearranged by the Sunday 25 March 2012.Ties in Knockout / Playoff Round MatchesIf the teams are still tied at the end of a knockout / playoff round match, then extra timeshall be played as per the sports specific regulations. Should further rules be required thenthe appropriate rules of the sports specific Governing Body shall be used.general regulationsREG 14 PREMIER LEAGUESBUCS will operate Premier Leagues in Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Fencing, Football, Golf, Hockey,Lacrosse, Netball, Rugby Union, Rugby League, Squash, Table Tennis (men only) and Tennis.REG 15POSTPONED & ABANDONED MATCHESREG 15.1 DefinitionAbandoned matches are matches called off, for whatever reason, by the match official(s) onceplay has begun. Postponed matches are matches called off up to and including the day of thematch, due to bad weather, ground conditions, bad light or other extenuating circumstances(force majeure). It is intended that postponed matches will always be replayed.REG 15.2 Postponed MatchesREG 15.2.1 Should a league match have to be postponed, this match shall be replayedat the venue of the home team no later than the relevant date stated in REG12.9.1, but preferably within two weeks of the date of the original match.REG 15.2.2 A knockout round match (except conference cup) postponed due toinclement weather must be replayed within five days. The home teamis required to give reasonable notice to the visiting team if there is anylikelihood of the playing area being pronounced unfit for play.REG 15.3 Late Postponed MatchesWhere the away team has commenced their journey only for the fixture to be postponedby either the match official(s) or groundsmen, the fixture shall be replayed at the venue ofthe AWAY team. In cases of ‘late postponed matches’ REG 15.5.2 and REG 15.5.5 belowapplies. If there are concerns that a match may be postponed, please inform opposition of35

general regulationsREG 15.4REG 15.5your proposed departure time and ask that a decision is made about whether the matchwill take place before this proposed departure time.Abandoned MatchesWhen a match has been abandoned, the fixture shall be replayed at the venue of theAWAY team unless covered under REG 8.10.Postponed & Abandoned Matches – Re-ArrangementsLeague MatchesREG 15.5.1REG 15.5.2REG 15.5.3When re-arranging a postponed, late postponed or abandoned leaguematch, the host institution must offer at least two dates in writing for thematch to take place by the relevant dates stated in REG 12.9.1. One ofthese dates must be a weekend date and one a weekday. Where anoffer is made for a weekday other than a Wednesday, then an eveningstart is preferable. Where the host institution has failed to adhere to thisregulation, they will be deemed to have conceded the match and theaway team will be awarded a walkover.It is the responsibility of the home team to make an offer of replaydates no later than 24 hours (allowing for weekends and BankHolidays) after the postponement. Where the host institution has failedto adhere to this regulation, they will be deemed to have concededthe match and the away team will be awarded a walkover. Institutionsmust have agreed a replay date in writing no later than one week afterthe date of the original fixture and the original home team must enterthe new date into the BUCS website.If the away team cannot fulfil either of the dates offered by the hostinstitution as stated in REG 15.5.1, they can offer two alternative dates(one weekday and one weekend) to the host institution. If the hostinstitution cannot fulfil either of these offered dates and the away teamdo not agree to play on either of the original dates offered by the homeinstitution, the away team will be deemed to have conceded the matchand the home institution will be awarded a walkover.Championship, Trophy and Conference Cup/Plate KnockoutsREG 15.5.4 When re-arranging a postponed, late postponed or abandonedknockout round match, the host institution must offer at least two datesfor the match to take place by no later than the Monday before the nextround date. One of these dates must be a weekend date and one aweekday – the latter should have an evening start time unless otherwiseagreed by the two teams. Where the host institution has failed to adhereto this regulation, they will be deemed to have conceded the match andthe away team will be awarded a walkover.REG 15.5.5 It is the responsibility of the home team to make an offer of replay datesin writing no later than 12 noon on the day after the original scheduledfixture. Where the host institution has failed to adhere to this regulation,they will have deemed to have conceded the match and the away teamwill be awarded a walkover. Institutions must have agreed a replaydate in writing no later than 5pm on the day after the originalscheduled fixture.REG 15.5.6 If the away team cannot fulfil either of the dates offered by the hostinstitution as stated in REG 15.5.4, they must offer two alternative dates(one weekday and one weekend) to the host institution. If the hostinstitution cannot fulfil either of these offered dates, and the away teamdo not agree to play on either of the original offered dates by the homeinstitution, the away team they will be deemed to have conceded thematch and the home institutions will be awarded a walkover.REG 15.5.7 There will be three guiding principles for the re-scheduling of postponedChampionship and Trophy knockout round fixtures:REG 15.5.7.1 All knockout final dates will be sacrosanctREG 15.5.7.2 Semi-final at neutral venues dates will remain sacrosanctREG 15.5.7.3 In the event of no fixture being played on the Mondayprior to the Wednesday the BUCS office will toss of a coinat 5pm, to decide a fixtureREG 15.5.8 In exceptional circumstances the BUCS Office will instruct teams of thereplay date and venue.36

general regulationsREG 15.6REG 15.7Semi-Final and Final RoundsShould a match not be played or postponed because of inclement weather or ‘forcemajeure’ it shall be replayed on a date and at a venue organised by the BUCS Office.These matches shall take precedence over any other matches previously arrangedby the competing Universities.REG 16. DISPUTES[Any fines imposed within this process are payable within 30 days of dispatch of invoice]COMPETITION BASED DISPUTESREG 16.1 UNIVERSITY CLUB AND ATHLETIC UNION OFFICIALS ARE REMINDED THAT ONLYWHERE A REGULATION HAS BEEN BREACHED SHOULD AN APPEAL BE MADE.REG 16.2 Playing Under ProtestInstitutions are reminded that they have the right to play matches under protest asdetailed in REG 12.14REG 16.3 Should a Dispute Occur, the Following Procedure will Operate : INITIAL APPEALPROCESSThe reason for the dispute shall be forwarded via the recognised Athletic Union /Sports Office representative. This representative shall be personally responsiblefor checking the validity of the claim. If satisfied that there are reasonable groundsto believe a rule infringement has taken place he / she shall make an Initial Appealon the Initial Appeal Proforma, attaching all relevant evidence, to the BUCS Office,by 2pm on the next working day after the disputed match took place. This appealMUST be sent to appeals@bucs.org.uk.REG 16.4 The proforma and any further evidence will then be forwarded to the opposition’sAthletic Union / Sports Office representative by the BUCS Office, who will have 24hours to reply to the allegations. This reply should be emailed to the BUCS Office.Failure to reply in writing on the Initial Appeal Response Proforma in the timespecified will lead to a decision being reached based on the facts presented. Shoulda reply not be received in the time specified the institution concerned may notsubsequently appeal the decision reached.REG 16.5 A decision based on the two statements, information from any other relevant bodiesand on previous case law shall be made and notified in writing to both institutions. Inthe event an outcome of an appeal would affect a fixture in the near future, BUCS willrule on the appeal and inform both parties no later than 1600hrs on Friday.REG 16.6 Should either side wish to appeal the decision of the BUCS Office they are requiredto move this matter forward to a Full Appeal REG 16.7, a meeting of the DisciplinaryCommittee. To do this they are required to supply written notice (including a FullAppeal Proforma) within 24 hours of receiving the initial appeal decision and £50lodging fee (cheque payable to BUCS) must immediately be sent to the BUCS Office.REG 16.7 FULL APPEAL PROCESS:REG 16.7.1 The Full Appeals process will be overseen by the BUCS DisciplinaryManager and the Disciplinary Panel shall be comprised of:– Chair(s) of Disciplinary Panel– 2 Student Members (SDP), subject to them not being from the sameplaying conference as either team involved in the dispute.– BUCS Disciplinary ManagerREG 16.7.2 The Disciplinary Panel will convene in a timeframe appropriate to thedispute, with regard to impact on future fixtures and the ability of partiesto provide written evidence or representation at the hearing.REG 16.7.3 Institutions must submit a written response, providing as muchevidence as possible or (preferably) attend the hearing in person. Wherecircumstances dictate conference calls may be utilised.REG 16.7.4 Institutions who do not adhere to REG 16.7.3 will automatically have theFull Appeal decision ruled against them, forfeit any fees and lose theright to a Final Appeal.general regulations37

general regulationsREG 16.11REG 16.12REG 16.13Intentional Breach of EligibilityWhere an institution has intentionally contravened eligibility regulations (as determined bythe Disciplinary Committee) the relevant team(s) shall be removed from the competitionand subject to further disciplinary action as the Committee determines. An “unintentional”breach of these regulations (as determined by the Disciplinary Committee) will result in theteam(s) being deducted three points and three points being awarded to the opposition (foreach match in violation of regulations).Breach of Rules Brought by the BUCS Office Against an InstitutionA charge should normally be brought against the infringing institution within five workingdays of receiving the necessary information relating to the breaking of a rule. The AppealsProcess detailed above shall apply.Disciplinary Procedures for Individual and Tournament Based EventsShould a dispute or disciplinary matter occur at a BUCS tournament/event/championshipthe following shall occur:REG 16.13.1REG 16.13.2REG 16.13.3REG 16.13.4REG 16.13.5The reason for the dispute / disciplinary matter shall be brought to theattention of the Tournament Director or BUCS representative within 30minutes of the incident.A neutral technical committee of three shall be convened, comprising ofa Chairman, two other members selected from the BUCS SAG / NGB /BUCS representatives.This committee shall have the authority to rule on matters relatingspecifically to the event in question and also to forward anyrecommendations to BUCS Disciplinary Committee for furtherconsideration if necessary.Should the Technical Committee refer a matter to the DisciplinaryCommittee the Full Appeals Process REG 16.7 shall be followed.Should the appellant wish to dispute the outcome of the Disciplinaryhearing then they can refer the matter to the Disciplinary Committeefollowing REG 16.7general regulationsREG 17 MISCONDUCT/BRINGING BUCS INTO DISREPUTEREG 17.1 Every member institution and its clubs shall be responsible for ensuring that its players,officials and all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers conduct themselves inan orderly fashion whilst attending or taking part in by the above shall render the institutionand its clubs liable to a charge of misconduct for failing to discharge its said responsibility.Failure to adhere to this regulation may render the institution and its clubs liable to acharge of misconduct for failing to fulfil its said responsibilities and/or additional charge/sof bringing BUCS into disrepute. Examples of behaviour the company would deem aninstitution and its clubs liable to a charge of misconduct and/or disrepute are:– Violent, threatening, abusive, obscene or provocative behaviour, conduct or language;– Encroachment on the playing area by spectators or unauthorized persons, save forreasons of safety;– Throwing missiles, bottles or other potentially harmful or dangerous objects at, onto oradjacent to the playing area.– Every member institution and its clubs shall be responsible for ensuring that its players,officials and all persons purporting to be its representatives do not conduct themselvesor print / have published any material which will bring the company into disrepute.REG 17.2 Charges under REG 17 will be subject to the following process :REG 17.2.1 In the case of a member institution wishing to lodge a complaint againstanother; a written complaint (email or letter) must be sent to the BUCSoffice. Complaints of such a nature shall be regarded as FORMAL andmust therefore be treated by all parties with the appropriate regard.REG 17.2.2 There shall be no timeframe for BUCS receiving a complaint of this nature.REG 17.2.3 BUCS will acknowledge receipt of said complaint in writing and may seekclarification of details/collection of evidence.REG 17.2.4 BUCS will complete a standardised form summarising the accusationwhich will be forwarded to the accused institution.REG 17.2.5 The accused institution shall have 7 days from receipt of the complaint torespond to the allegation.REG 17.2.6 If an offending institution fails to respond within the stated timeframe(REG 17.2.5) they shall lose the right to any further appeal.39

general regulationsREG 17.2.7REG 17.2.8REG 17.2.9REG 17.2.10Disciplinary Hearing: A Disciplinary Panel will then convene in atimeframe appropriate to the allegations, with regard to impact onfuture fixtures and the ability of parties to provide written evidence orrepresentation at the hearing. The panel shall be comprised of:- Chair(s) of Disciplinary Panel- 2 Student Members (SDP)- BUCS Disciplinary ManagerDecisions reached by the Disciplinary Panel shall be communicated inperson, immediately following the conclusion of the hearing. Only thedecisions of the Committee shall be minuted and not any discussion.The respondent can request a Final Appeal in order to appeal againstone or more of the following :- The verdict- The penalty- The processInstitutions wishing to lodge a Final Appeal would then enter theprocess as stipulated in REG 16.10REG 18TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP ORGANISATIONThese Regulations are intended to cover the organisation of the Team and Individual Championships.REG 18.1 The Company reserves the right to administer its Championships in the mannerconsidered by the CEO to be most expedient.REG 18.2 Where appropriate a local sub-committee shall be set up to conduct the preparationsfor the staging of a BUCS Championship event or final.REG 18.3 Where a University agrees to undertake the organisation of a BUCS Championshipevent or final, it shall be required to submit a detailed scheme of the proposedarrangements to the BUCS office.REG 18.4 48 hours notice of cancellation of a BUCS event should be given to participatingUniversities, to officials, and to the BUCS Office by the host University.REG 18.5 Whenever possible, in case of inclement weather, e.g. ground conditions, 24 hoursnotice of cancellation should be given to participating Universities, to officials and to theBUCS Office by the host UniversityREG 18.6 BUCS shall be represented on all Championship Sub-Committees by one of its Officersor by an appointed representative.REG 18.7 Representatives of local Governing Bodies or technical experts shall be co-opted tolocal sub-committees with the consent of the BUCS CEO.REG 18.8 On the days when competition is in progress all members of the sub-committeewho are actively participating shall be relieved of organising responsibility. When itis necessary for a draw to be made for play-offs, byes, heats or lanes, this shall bedone by a BUCS Official in conjunction with the local county or area association of theGoverning Body of the sport concerned.REG 18.9REG 18.10FinanceREG 18.9.1REG 18.9.2REG 18.9.3REG 18.9.4OfficialsREG 18.10.1REG 18.10.2The financial arrangements for each Championship shall be madeby the BUCS Office in consultation with the representatives of theorganising University.The organising sub-committee shall furnish a complete account ofthe income and expenditure for the Championship, within 28 days ofthe event.Whenever conditions permit, a ‘gate’ shall be taken at allChampionships, the proceeds of which shall be entered into therelevant BUCS sports account.BUCS will not be responsible for reimbursing any expenses incurredby a University or by a University (Athletic) Union, or any one of itsconstituent clubs in the cancellation of any BUCS event.The chief officials for all Championships shall be officials qualifiedaccording to the rules of the Governing Body of the sportconcerned.Other competent officials may be appointed by BUCS or itsrepresentatives.40

general regulationsREG 19. GENERALREG 19.1REG 19.2REG 19.3REG 18.10.3BUCS reserves the right to appoint a Tournament Director for allChampionships. The duties of this official shall include liaisonduty between the Championship officials and the organisers,interpretation of BUCS Championship Regulations and solearbitration in the event of disputes or appeals relevant to theconduct of the BUCS Championship which is being contested.Any point an issue not covered by these regulations shall be referred to the Boardfor a decision, depending on the nature of the query.A breach of any of these regulations shall render the defaulting University liable toforfeit its place in the Championship in question.All BUCS regulations are determined by the CEO and subsequently endorsed bythe Board.REG 20. REPRESENTATIVE SPORTREG 20.1 DefinitionBUCS’s sporting programme includes both UK and international representative sport.UK representative sport includes trials, selection events, preparation events for British,English (or one of its regions), Welsh, Scottish or Northern Ireland Universities teamscompeting in the UK. International representative sport includes trials, selection &preparation events and competition for Great Britain at FISU (Federation Internationaledu Sport Universitaire) events or other tournaments as sanctioned by BUCS’sInternational Sport Committee.REG 20.2 Eligibility – UK Representative SportAny student complying with BUCS’s general eligibility regulations is entitled to submita nomination and be selected for any aspect of BUCS’s UK Representativeprogramme. Institutions are required to sign nomination forms confirming an athlete’scompliance with BUCS Eligibility Regulations. In the same way that they may competein any BUCS Championship, an athlete may compete for British, English, Welsh,Scottish or Northern Ireland Universities regardless of their nationality. In Home Nationsports, athletes must compete for the country in which their institution resides; e.g.a Scottish or Greek student at Cardiff University may represent Welsh and/or BritishUniversities as appropriate.REG 20.3 Eligibility – International Representative SportUK citizens, as defined by the holding of a UK passport, are entitled to represent GreatBritain in FISU events regardless of whether they are studying at a BUCS memberinstitution, provided they meet FISU eligibility regulations. BUCS may wish to restrictmembership of teams competing internationally in non-FISU events to athletes fromBUCS member institutions.REG 20.4 Nomination forms for BUCS representative sport (including British, English, Scottish,Welsh and Northern Ireland Universities) will be accepted only if signed by anofficial representative of the Athletic Union (or equivalent). Two signatures will berequired: a) the first will confirm the eligibility of that student to compete in BUCS UKrepresentative matches (REG 7 – Eligibility); b) the second will confirm the acceptanceby that institution of liability for the costs incurred by that player / competitor duringthe course of that season’s representative programme.REG 20.5 Institutions are entitled to sign part a) of the nomination form (confirming the eligibilityof the student to compete in representative matches) while declining to acceptresponsibility for costs incurred (i.e. not signing for a second time).REG 20.6 Students for whom their institution will not confirm their eligibility for representativeselection will have the right to appeal to BUCS’s Disciplinary Committee who shallconsider the dispute in an appropriate timescale.REG 20.7 When issuing nomination forms, the BUCS Office will endeavour to provide anaccurate assessment of possible costs that could be incurred.REG 20.8 The rules of the relevant NGB in respect of match precedents vis-a-vis nationalrepresentative teams shall apply for each sport unless specified otherwise in thesports specific regulations. These will normally only apply for senior internationalrepresentation and shall apply for competitive matches and not training / practice /selection events.general regulations41

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