So, in light of the events of the past few weeks I felt this blog was necessary to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Firstly, I'd like to remind everyone that the off-season means we allow more non-football related content. It doesn't mean the Code of Conduct becomes null and void. It still very much applies.
Secondly, I'm calling for a truce between all ongoing feuds. At the end of the day, we're all Eels supporters. That's why we're here. I don't care if you don't like someone, the majority of us are adults and there's no need to abuse, harass, intimidate etc. anyone. Act like an adult and just walk away. If you believe something has broken the Code of Conduct, message me with a link to the comment and which part of the Code of Conduct you think they've broken.
The thing I dislike most are running battles between members the devolve into childish name-calling and he said she said messages asking me to ban the other person. You're adults, act like it.
On the moderation side of things, my preference is generally to avoid suspensions. However, if you're a repeat offender, regardless of how long you have been on the site, I am more likely to issue a suspension to you than someone who is clean and generally abides by the rules.
Regarding interpersonal bans, they are issued for a reason. It is not an opportunity to see how closely you can walk the line regarding that. For more information on that, see the Code of Conduct. If I've issued you an interpersonal ban with someone, consider it a warning and my next recourse is a suspension.
I've spent six years as a moderator on here and I've spent five years as a referee. I know that whenever I make a decision someone is going to be annoyed. If I suspend someone I almost always get a message about how it's unfair for x,y,z reasons. Cop the decision, accept it and move on. Targeting me will get you nowhere and abusing me while you're suspended over email will likely result in a longer ban. Also understand that quite often, instances where the code is broken is up to the moderators' interpretation. Not every decision is black and white.
Now, I'm not saying you can't passionately debate topics. After all, that's the point of this site. But there's a line that's not to be crossed and that's when I get involved. Stay on the right side of that line, and everything will be fine.
Banter is fine, so long as everyone involved is comfortable with it. This site is one of the most liberal when it comes to what we allow, but there is a limit.
At the end of the day, we're all Eels supporters. We all want what's best for the club and sometimes we get overly passionate. I ask that every member remembers that.
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