We are supporting the FA's Silent Support Weekend
25 - 26 February 2023
What it means for the players, coaches and supporters...
The purpose of the Silent Support Weekend is to allow young players to find their voice, make their own decisions and take control of their game. Help us listen to young players to make our youth game the best place to play football.
After the first Silent Support Weekend our young players told us it allowed them to talk more as a team, with more chances to make decisions and overall, it was more enjoyable.
However, they missed the support of their coach. We’re running the trial again, this time the coach will be able to coach throughout the match.
We want you, your clubs and teams to be part of it and tell us what you think.
On the weekend, we’re asking spectators to work together with coaches to provide a positive space for the players during the match. The coach can help the players where needed through the match and everyone can applaud good play from either team.
“It’s giving them space to find their own game.”
– Under 12s coach
“They are talking to each other more, playing their own game, this was the best way to try it out.”
– Under 10s coach
“It was good as we got to make our own decisions, not the parents, not the coach, just the team.”
– Under 12s player
“It can get confusing when lots of people are telling you what to do” – Under 14s player
Online survey and FAQs
Whole in one:
Players keep talking on the pitch
Coaches support the players as they need to on the pitch
Spectators support good play through applause only
How to make it a success:
Share the details in the pack with your clubs via email and ask them to send it to their teams, Coaches and Managers ASAP
Spread the word to make sure all your teams understand what is happening
Post on social media that your league is taking part in Silent Support weekend.
If you need further information attend the workshop on 13 February
If required share the Respect code of conduct with your teams
After the weekend: Fill in and share the survey so we can collect as many opinions as possible about the experience
What will happen if spectators don’t follow the Code of Conduct?
If they’re not following the FA’s Respect Codes of Conduct, they may be asked to leave the venue, meet with the Club’s Committee and/or Welfare Officer, or asked not to attend future games. There must be a RESPECT steward nominated from each team from U7-11. This is to ensure the Code of Conduct is applied appropriately.
