The FA has announced that Grassroots football is returning
From August – competitive matches will be allowed (friendlies, festivals, small-sided, etc.)
From September – grassroots leagues and FA Competitions
Obviously, risk assessments should be carried out prior to these commencing to ensure the safety of all
A useful Summary for match officials:
- Self assessment for any COVID-19 symptoms; if in doubt DO NOT referee
- Travel to/from games in a safe manner and follow best practice
- Identify the home club COVID-19 Safety Officer and contact on arrival at the ground (if applicable)
- Observe club rules in place to protect everyone, where these are in place
- Sanitise your hands before and after games (minimum)
- Arrive changed for the game and shower at home
- No pre-match handshakes
- Discourage team pre-match huddles
- Try to avoid handling the ball
- Encourage spectators (when possible) not to handle the ball when retrieving it
- Observe Social Distancing when addressing players, including substitutes
- Goal celebrations should not be allowed
- Set plays
- Free kicks – encourage players to get on with the game, where possible
- Corner kicks – to be taken promptly, where possible
- No spitting allowed
- Apply FA’s Code of Behaviour (spectators), eg. no excessive shouting
and remember practice SOCIAL DISTANCING at all times, wherever possible
The use of common sense may be required at times, but try to follow the guidelines
Remember, if you’re not comfortable returning to football there is no pressure to do so.
Everyone’s health, well-being and safety are the priorities…….it is entirely your call
NB. No indoor football or Futsal allowed at present
The full guides from the FA can be found here:
detailed-covid-19-guidance-on-re-starting-competitive-grassroots-football[61099]
FA Statement regarding return of grassroots football.[61098]