PDO Decision Appeals Process

General Principles

The Player Development Officer (PDO) considers matters collectively, with decisions reviewed and discussed by a panel of members before any outcome is communicated to a player.

This document explains the process available to players who wish to challenge or appeal a decision.

Appeals Process

A player who wishes to challenge a decision made by the PDO has the right to submit an appeal.

Grounds for Appeal

Appeals will only be considered where the player believes that:

• Relevant information was not considered during the original decision-making process;
• The decision was based on incorrect or incomplete information;
• There has been a procedural error that may have affected the outcome.

Disagreement with a decision alone will not normally constitute grounds for appeal.

Submitting an Appeal

Appeals must be submitted in writing to the PDO within seven (7) days of the player being notified of the original decision.

The appeal must clearly state:

• The decision being appealed;
• The grounds for the appeal;
• Any supporting evidence or information being relied upon; and
• The outcome sought by the player.

Appeal Review

Upon receipt of an appeal, the PDO will appoint an appeal panel consisting of members who were not involved in the original decision wherever possible.

The appeal panel will review all relevant documentation, evidence, and submissions before reaching a decision. The panel may request additional information from the player or any other relevant party if required.

Outcome of Appeal

Following review, the appeal panel may:

• Uphold the original decision;
• Amend the original decision;
• Overturn the original decision; or
• Refer the matter back for further consideration.

The player will be notified of the appeal outcome in writing as soon as reasonably practicable. They will be advised of the reasons for the decision and, where applicable, the date or timescale after which the player may apply for their case to be reconsidered.

Finality

The decision of the appeal panel shall be final and binding. No further appeal will be considered except in exceptional circumstances where significant new evidence becomes available.