Terms and Conditions for RefZone.org

Last Updated: 29/08/2025

1. Eligibility and Account Use

1.1 Minimum Age

You must be at least 13 years old to use RefZone. If you are between 13 and 18 years old, you represent that you have parental/guardian consent.

1.2 Account Registration

Registration requires accurate and complete details, including your full name and valid email address. You may not create accounts using false information or impersonate another person.

1.3 Single Account Policy

Each individual is permitted only one account. Duplicate accounts may be merged or terminated.

1.4 Account Security

You are responsible for safeguarding your login credentials. You must notify RefZone immediately if you suspect unauthorized access. RefZone is not liable for damage or loss caused by failure to secure your account.

1.5 Account Suspension or Termination

We may restrict, suspend, or permanently terminate accounts if you violate these Terms, attempt to cheat or manipulate quizzes/leaderboards, engage in abusive behavior on RefZone.org or the official Discord server, or create multiple or fraudulent accounts.

2. Purpose of RefZone

2.1 Educational Resource

RefZone provides resources to support referees in learning and applying the Laws of the Game (LOTG). Content is for educational purposes only and does not confer official referee certification or professional status.

2.2 Accuracy of Content

RefZone strives to ensure accuracy in its materials; however, LOTG interpretations may vary by governing body (e.g., FIFA, IFAB, Football Australia). Users are responsible for confirming official rules with their local referee association.

2.3 No Guarantee of Outcomes

RefZone does not guarantee improvement in referee assessments, match appointments, or professional opportunities.

3. Quizzes, Scenarios, and Leaderboards

3.1 Educational Tools

Quizzes, scenarios, and interactive exercises are intended to reinforce learning of refereeing concepts.

3.2 Scoring System

Points, badges, ranks, and leaderboard positions are non-transferable and have no monetary value. They may not be sold, traded, or redeemed for real-world benefits.

3.3 Leaderboard Management

RefZone reserves the right to adjust scoring formulas, reset or modify leaderboards, and disqualify users suspected of cheating.

3.4 Fair Participation

Use of automated tools (e.g., bots, macros, scripts) to complete quizzes or manipulate scores is prohibited. Evidence of cheating may result in permanent suspension.

4. Discord Community Rules

4.1 Official Community

The RefZone Discord server is the official platform for discussions, feedback, and interaction among users. By joining, you agree to follow both these Terms and Discord’s Terms of Service.

4.2 Prohibited Conduct

Harass, bully, or threaten other members.
Post discriminatory, hateful, obscene, or sexually explicit material.
Share malicious software, phishing links, or spam.
Distribute quiz answers, official referee exam material, or confidential documents.
Impersonate referees, moderators, or staff.

4.3 Moderation and Enforcement

RefZone moderators may mute, warn, kick, or permanently ban users who breach rules. Discord bans may extend to suspension of your RefZone.org account. Ban appeals (if allowed) are handled exclusively at RefZone’s discretion and may be denied without explanation.

5. Intellectual Property

5.1 Ownership

RefZone and all associated content are protected by copyright. All logos, branding, quiz questions, designs, and software code are the exclusive property of RefZone unless otherwise stated.

5.2 Prohibited Uses

You must not copy, reproduce, or distribute RefZone content without prior written consent; create derivative works based on RefZone resources; or use RefZone’s branding, name, or logo without authorization.

5.3 User-Generated Content

You retain ownership of content you create (e.g., Discord posts, quiz answers). By submitting content, you grant RefZone a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use, display, and distribute that content in connection with the Service.

6. Data, Privacy, and Integrations

6.1 Data Collected

Information collected includes account details (name, email), quiz activity, leaderboard scores, and user interactions.

6.2 Third-Party Processing

Data may be stored or processed through Airtable, Make.com, Softr, and Discord. RefZone is not responsible for the practices of third-party providers; use is subject to their own policies.

6.3 Security

We use encryption and standard protections, but no system is 100% secure. You acknowledge that use of online services carries inherent risks.

7. Disclaimers

7.1 Service Availability

RefZone is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis. We do not guarantee uninterrupted, error-free access.

7.2 Educational Disclaimer

Content is not official referee instruction or legal advice. Always confirm rules and procedures with your governing body.

7.3 No Warranties

We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

8. Limitation of Liability

RefZone shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including loss of data, misinterpretation of referee rules, or missed matches, opportunities, or appointments. In no event shall RefZone’s liability exceed the total amount paid by the user (if any) in the 12 months prior to a claim.

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless RefZone, its owners, staff, and moderators from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of the Service, content you post on RefZone.org or Discord, or violations of these Terms.

10. Termination

We may suspend or permanently terminate accounts at any time, without notice, if you violate these Terms. Termination may result in the deletion of your account, leaderboard data, and Discord access. Termination decisions are final.

11. Changes to These Terms

We may revise these Terms periodically. Notice of changes will be posted on RefZone.org. Continued use after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

12. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

These Terms are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia. Disputes will first be addressed through informal negotiation. If unresolved, disputes may be submitted to binding arbitration or the courts of New South Wales.

13. Miscellaneous

Entire Agreement: These Terms and the Privacy Policy form the full agreement between you and RefZone.
Severability: If one section is invalid, the rest remain enforceable.
No Waiver: Failure to enforce a right does not waive that right.
Assignment: Users may not transfer accounts; RefZone may assign rights in case of restructuring.

14. Contact Information

For support, moderation issues, or legal questions, contact us:
📧 Email: refzone.redirect@outlook.com
🌐 Website: https://refzone.org
💬 Discord: Discord server (coming soon)