1. Purpose and Scope

FutBaller's Community Guidelines have been established to foster a safe, positive, and enriching environment for youth soccer players, their families, and sports professionals. These guidelines govern all interactions and content within the FutBaller platform, including but not limited to video uploads, comments, messages, profile information, and performance statistics. As a platform dedicated to youth athletics, we maintain particularly stringent standards to protect our young users while promoting their athletic development and opportunities.

These guidelines apply to all users of the platform, regardless of their role – whether they are players, parents, coaches, scouts, or other sports professionals. They are designed to be comprehensive yet clear, ensuring that all members of our community understand their responsibilities in maintaining a safe and productive environment. Users must be at least 13 years old to create their own account, or must have a parent-supervised account if under 13, in accordance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

2. Content Safety and Moderation

FutBaller employs a multi-layered approach to content moderation, combining automated systems with human review to ensure all content aligns with our community standards. All video content undergoes review before posting to ensure it meets our guidelines and is appropriate for our youth-focused platform. This includes checking for appropriate athletic content, proper conduct, and adherence to safety standards.

Our moderation system pays particular attention to user comments and interactions to prevent harassment, bullying, or inappropriate communication. We utilize artificial intelligence to detect and flag potentially inappropriate content, followed by human review for context and nuance. Users are encouraged to report any content that they believe violates our guidelines, and we maintain a dedicated team to review these reports promptly.

3. Youth Protection

The protection of our young athletes is paramount to FutBaller's mission. We maintain strict protocols to safeguard youth players while allowing them to showcase their athletic abilities and connect with legitimate opportunities. Any content or behavior that exploits, harasses, or puts young athletes at risk will result in immediate account termination and may be reported to appropriate authorities.

Parent or guardian supervision is required for all users under 13, and we provide robust parental controls and monitoring tools. These tools include the ability to review all interactions, approve connections, and monitor communication with other users. We strictly prohibit private messaging between adults and minors unless there is a verified parent-approved coaching or scouting relationship. Additionally, we require all sports professionals, including coaches and scouts, to undergo verification before they can interact with youth athletes on the platform.

Furthermore, we protect young athletes by enforcing strict guidelines about what personal information can be shared. While athletic performance data and game statistics are permitted, certain personal details are restricted or require parental approval before being displayed. We also maintain specific guidelines about the type of athletic content that can be shared, ensuring it focuses on skill demonstration and game performance while avoiding any potentially exploitative content.

4. Privacy and Personal Information

FutBaller maintains stringent privacy protections that balance the need to showcase athletic talent with the imperative to protect user privacy, particularly for young athletes. Users must exercise discretion when sharing personal information, and certain categories of information are subject to specific restrictions and protections within our platform.

For youth athletes, we implement a tiered privacy system where basic athletic information (such as position played and team affiliation) can be displayed publicly, while more sensitive information requires parental approval and may only be visible to verified scouts and coaches. We strictly prohibit the sharing of sensitive personal information such as home addresses, private contact information, or school locations. Users are forbidden from attempting to circumvent these privacy protections or from soliciting personal information from other users, particularly minors.

In cases where game footage or team photos are shared, we require confirmation that appropriate permissions have been obtained from all individuals (or their guardians) appearing in the content. We also provide tools for users to report and request removal of any content that may compromise their privacy or safety.

5. Behavioral Standards

The FutBaller community is built on principles of sportsmanship, respect, and positive athletic development. All interactions within our platform must reflect these values. Users must maintain professional and appropriate behavior in all communications, whether in public comments, private messages, or video content. We have zero tolerance for harassment, bullying, hate speech, or discriminatory behavior of any kind.

Criticism and feedback must be constructive and focused on athletic performance and development. Personal attacks, derogatory comments, or any form of intimidation are strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, comments about physical appearance, athletic ability, or personal characteristics. Users must also refrain from engaging in or promoting unsportsmanlike conduct, whether in game footage or platform interactions.

Professional users, such as coaches and scouts, are held to particularly high standards of conduct and must maintain appropriate professional boundaries in all interactions. Any violation of these standards by professional users will result in immediate review and potential termination of their verification status.

6. Video Content Guidelines

All video content uploaded to FutBaller must adhere to our strict content standards. Videos must focus on athletic performance, training, or game play, and must be appropriate for our youth-oriented platform. Each video undergoes both automated and human review before publication to ensure compliance with our guidelines.

We require that all uploaded videos maintain appropriate context and presentation. Game footage must be unedited except for reasonable trimming to highlight specific plays or sequences. Training videos must demonstrate safe and appropriate training techniques. Any instructional content must be accurate and presented by qualified individuals. We prohibit videos that encourage dangerous play, unsafe training practices, or unsportsmanlike conduct.

The integrity of video content is paramount. We prohibit deceptively edited content that misrepresents athletic performance, including but not limited to manipulated speed, altered game situations, or misrepresented outcomes. Additionally, all music used in videos must be properly licensed and appropriate for our youth audience. Videos that include multiple players must have obtained appropriate permissions from all featured athletes or their guardians.

7. Statistics and Performance Data

The accuracy and integrity of athletic performance data on FutBaller is fundamental to our platform's mission of connecting youth athletes with legitimate opportunities. All statistical information must be accurately reported and verifiable through official game records or verified team sources. We maintain strict protocols for the submission and verification of performance statistics to ensure the integrity of our platform.

Users who input game statistics and performance metrics must adhere to our data entry standards and verification processes. Parents, coaches, and team officials who submit statistics must be prepared to provide verification if requested. We prohibit the manipulation or misrepresentation of performance data, and any attempt to falsify statistics will result in immediate disciplinary action. The platform maintains the right to correct or remove any statistical information found to be inaccurate or unverifiable.

In cases where there are disputes about statistical accuracy, we provide a formal review process that allows for the submission of official documentation to support statistical claims. We also implement automated systems to flag unusual statistical patterns that may require additional verification.

8. Account Integrity

The authenticity of user accounts is essential to maintaining the trust and safety of the FutBaller community. Each user may maintain only one account, with the exception of parent-supervised accounts for youth athletes. The creation of multiple accounts, impersonation of other individuals, or misrepresentation of credentials or affiliations is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate account termination.

Professional users, including coaches, scouts, and team officials, must undergo a comprehensive verification process to confirm their credentials and affiliations. This process includes submission of official documentation, professional references, and background checks where appropriate. Verified status will be prominently displayed on professional profiles, and any attempt to circumvent or falsify the verification process will result in permanent platform exclusion.

All users must maintain the security of their accounts and immediately report any unauthorized access or suspicious activity. Sharing account credentials, selling or transferring accounts, or allowing unauthorized access to accounts is strictly prohibited. Users are responsible for all activity that occurs under their account credentials.

9. Enforcement and Appeals

FutBaller maintains a comprehensive system for enforcing these Community Guidelines through a combination of automated monitoring, human review, and user reporting. Violations of these guidelines will result in actions proportional to the severity and frequency of the violation, ranging from content removal to permanent account termination. In cases involving the safety of minors or other serious violations, we will cooperate fully with appropriate law enforcement authorities.

We implement a structured enforcement system that includes warnings, temporary suspensions, and permanent bans. First-time violations of a less severe nature typically result in a warning and content removal, while serious violations or repeated infractions may result in immediate account termination. Any violation involving the safety or exploitation of minors will result in immediate permanent platform ban and referral to appropriate authorities.

Users have the right to appeal enforcement actions through our formal appeals process, which must be initiated within 30 days of the enforcement action. Appeals must include substantive evidence or documentation supporting the appeal. During the appeals process, temporary restrictions remain in effect to ensure community safety. Appeals are reviewed by a separate team from the original enforcement action to ensure fair and unbiased consideration.

10. Reporting and Accountability

To maintain a safe environment, users are encouraged to report any content or behavior that violates these guidelines or raises safety concerns. FutBaller provides easy-to-use reporting tools within the platform, enabling users to flag inappropriate content, suspected abuse, or other violations. All reports are reviewed promptly by our moderation team. Users who make false or malicious reports may face disciplinary action, including account suspension or termination.

11. Anti-Grooming and Exploitation Policies

FutBaller has zero tolerance for grooming, exploitation, or predatory behavior of any kind. All interactions between adults and minors must follow strict boundaries and comply with our verified relationship policies (e.g., verified coaches or scouts). Adults attempting to establish inappropriate relationships with minors or engaging in suspicious behavior will be immediately banned, and such activities will be reported to law enforcement.

12. Advertising and Sponsorship Standards

To protect young users from inappropriate or exploitative advertising, all advertisements and sponsorships displayed on the platform must comply with strict standards. Ads must be age-appropriate and relevant to youth soccer or related activities. FutBaller prohibits advertisements for alcohol, tobacco, gambling, or any other products unsuitable for minors. Sponsored content must be clearly labeled, and parents or guardians may opt out of personalized advertising on behalf of their children.

13. Mental Health and Well-Being

FutBaller prioritizes the mental health and well-being of its young users. The platform prohibits content that promotes unrealistic athletic expectations, excessive criticism, or negative self-comparisons. Users are encouraged to focus on their own growth and development rather than competing for online recognition. FutBaller provides links to mental health resources and encourages positive engagement, emphasizing sportsmanship and teamwork.

14. AI and Automated Moderation Transparency

FutBaller uses artificial intelligence (AI) for content moderation, but AI alone cannot fully assess context. Automated systems flag potentially inappropriate content, which is then reviewed by human moderators for final decisions. Users have the right to request explanations for enforcement actions taken by AI systems and may appeal such decisions through the formal appeals process. FutBaller is committed to minimizing errors and biases in its AI systems to ensure fair enforcement.

15. Third-Party Integration and Data Sharing

While FutBaller integrates with third-party applications and services to enhance user experiences (e.g., analytics, league tools, or video editing software), we enforce strict controls over what data can be shared. Personal or sensitive information is never shared without explicit parental consent, and third-party providers must comply with FutBaller’s privacy and security standards. Users are advised to review and understand the privacy policies of any third-party services they choose to use within the platform.

16. Impersonation and Misrepresentation

FutBaller strictly prohibits the act of impersonating others, whether it involves pretending to be a celebrity, a professional athlete, a local soccer player, or any other individual. Creating accounts or uploading content that misrepresents your identity or falsely attributes content to another person violates our guidelines and undermines the integrity of the platform. Users must only create profiles and upload content that accurately represent themselves or their team. Any attempt to impersonate another person, fabricate achievements, or use false identities will result in account termination and, where applicable, notification to relevant authorities.

17. Prohibited Language and Hate Speech

FutBaller is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful community. We strictly forbid any content or language that is hateful, racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, or otherwise discriminatory. This includes slurs, derogatory remarks, or any communication intended to demean or harm others based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other personal characteristics. Users who engage in hate speech or use offensive language will face immediate disciplinary action, including account suspension or termination. Let’s work together to ensure that FutBaller is a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

18. Encouraging Sportsmanship and Positivity

FutBaller is a platform built on the principles of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Users are encouraged to celebrate the achievements of others, share positive feedback, and create an uplifting community where young athletes can thrive. Constructive criticism is welcome when it helps others grow, but negative or destructive comments have no place here. FutBaller celebrates teamwork, inclusivity, and positive energy—so let’s bring out the best in each other by supporting one another, cheering each other on, and celebrating the love of soccer.

19. Parental Responsibility and Involvement

Parents and guardians play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive experience for young users on FutBaller. For users under the age of 13, parents must actively supervise the account, review content and interactions, and approve any shared information. Parents are encouraged to engage with the platform by celebrating their child’s achievements, monitoring communications, and using the parental controls provided. FutBaller emphasizes that a collaborative effort between parents and the platform is essential for fostering a secure environment for youth athletes.

20. Respect for Cultural and Regional Diversity

Soccer is a global sport that unites people from diverse backgrounds, and FutBaller reflects this inclusivity. Users are expected to respect cultural differences and refrain from making offensive comments or judgments about others’ customs, languages, or traditions. This includes respecting different styles of play, coaching methods, and the variety of approaches to the game that come from around the world. By embracing diversity, we strengthen our community and enrich the experience for all players, parents, and coaches.

21. Accurate and Transparent Content

All content uploaded to FutBaller must be accurate, authentic, and truthful. Users are prohibited from altering or editing footage in ways that distort reality, such as fabricating game outcomes, manipulating scores, or misrepresenting events to gain undue recognition or competitive advantage. Highlight reels and performance videos must reflect actual gameplay or training without deceptive edits. Transparency is key to ensuring that FutBaller remains a trusted platform for showcasing genuine athletic achievements. Users found to be uploading deceptive or fraudulent content will be subject to disciplinary action, including account suspension or removal of content.

22. Accurate and Transparent Content

All content uploaded to FutBaller must be accurate, authentic, and truthful. Users are prohibited from altering or editing footage in ways that distort reality, such as fabricating game outcomes, manipulating scores, or misrepresenting events to gain undue recognition or competitive advantage. Highlight reels and performance videos must reflect actual gameplay or training without deceptive edits. Transparency is key to ensuring that FutBaller remains a trusted platform for showcasing genuine athletic achievements. Users found to be uploading deceptive or fraudulent content will be subject to disciplinary action, including account suspension or removal of content.

23. Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policies  

At FutBaller, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. Bullying, intimidation, and harassment of any kind are strictly prohibited. We define bullying and harassment as any repeated or intentional behavior—online or offline—that demeans, humiliates, or threatens another person or group. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Mocking or Ridiculing: Criticizing someone's performance, appearance, team affiliation, or personal characteristics in a manner meant to belittle or embarrass.  

2. Exclusionary Behavior: Intentionally excluding someone from discussions, groups, or challenges in a manner meant to isolate or marginalize them.  

3. Spreading Rumors: Sharing false, harmful, or malicious information about someone with the intent to damage their reputation.  

4. Threatening Language or Behavior: Using threats—explicit or implicit—to intimidate or coerce another person.  

5. Targeted Online Harassment: Repeatedly sending unwanted messages, posting derogatory comments, or initiating coordinated campaigns against an individual or group.  

We also have a zero-tolerance policy for cyberbullying, including content or comments aimed at inciting hostility or ridicule. This policy extends to private messaging, public comments, and all other interactions on the platform.

How FutBaller Addresses Bullying

1. Content Moderation: Our advanced AI systems and human moderators actively monitor for signs of harassment or bullying, including flagged keywords, reported behavior, and trends of repeated offenses.  

2. User Reporting Tools: We empower users to report bullying behavior through a simple and confidential reporting mechanism. Reports are reviewed promptly by a trained team of moderators.  

3. Consequences for Violations:  

• First-time offenders may receive a warning and have the offending content removed.  

• Repeat offenders or those engaging in severe bullying behavior may face immediate account suspension or termination.  

• In cases involving threats, exploitation, or targeted harassment, we will notify appropriate authorities as necessary.  

FutBaller is committed to creating an atmosphere of positivity and mutual respect. We urge all users to speak up when they witness bullying or harassment and to contribute to a supportive community for everyone.

24. Intellectual Property and Copyright Compliance  

FutBaller respects intellectual property laws and expects all users to do the same. Any content uploaded to the platform—whether videos, images, or music—must not infringe on the rights of others. If music or other media is used in videos, it must be properly licensed or fall under fair use.  

Users found to be uploading infringing content may face the removal of their materials, warnings, account suspension, or termination. Repeat infringers under the United States Copyright Act or other applicable laws will be permanently banned. If you believe your copyrighted material has been used without authorization, you can file a complaint with FutBaller for review.

25. Real-World Safety Guidelines  

FutBaller prioritizes the safety of its community both online and offline. To ensure the protection of all users, especially young athletes, the following guidelines apply:  

• Never arrange in-person meetings with other users without explicit parental consent and supervision.  

• Invitations to events, training sessions, or other real-world interactions must be thoroughly vetted by parents or guardians.  

• Be cautious of sharing personal location information or accepting unsolicited invitations.  

Users who fail to follow these guidelines or who use the platform to arrange unsafe or inappropriate interactions will face immediate disciplinary action, including account suspension or termination.  

26. Community Challenges and Fair Play  

FutBaller frequently organizes challenges and initiatives to encourage creativity, skill-building, and community engagement. These challenges are opportunities for users to showcase their talent and connect with others, and we encourage everyone to participate honestly and fairly.  

• All submissions must reflect authentic efforts and performances without manipulation or falsification.  

• Users may not attempt to sabotage, criticize, or discredit others' contributions during or after challenges.  

• FutBaller retains the right to verify challenge submissions and disqualify any entries found to violate these guidelines.  

By adhering to principles of fair play and mutual respect, users can contribute to a positive and enriching experience for all participants.

27. Platform Accountability and Continuous Improvement  

FutBaller is committed to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. Our team regularly reviews and updates policies to reflect evolving legal standards, community needs, and technological advancements.  

We welcome feedback from our community and encourage users to share suggestions on how we can improve the platform. Feedback can be submitted via the in-app help center, and our team will review and consider all constructive input.  

In addition, FutBaller will periodically publish transparency reports summarizing policy enforcement actions, including the number and types of violations addressed. This helps ensure that our community understands the steps we take to maintain a safe and positive environment.