This group chat is supposed to be about kick-off times, pitch sharing and making sure eight-year-olds get to enjoy their weekend football — not a place for grown adults to circulate drug-related content. For any coach to think this was acceptable is beyond comprehension.

League officials have rightly condemned the message as “disgusting”, and moved instantly to remove the coach. Child protection officers and the coach’s own club were notified immediately. The league has made it absolutely clear that this individual is barred for good, and will not set foot at any Fonacab League venue again. No debate. No second chances.

In a strongly worded statement, the league said that while it cannot monitor every private message sent between coaches, its expectations could not be clearer: any behaviour that puts children’s safety, wellbeing or the reputation of grassroots football at risk will be dealt with on the spot.

They also paid tribute to the many volunteers and coaches who work hard to uphold the values this level of football is built on — a sharp contrast to the behaviour shown here.

Because at the end of the day, this is children’s sport. Their environment should be safe, positive and free from this kind of behaviour. And when someone forgets that, they simply have no place in the game.

These interventions, introduced for the 2025/26 season, are aimed at driving a positive culture across grassroots football and act as a clear deterrent against unacceptable behaviours. They also form part of the ‘Love Football. Protect The Game’ campaign to introduce enhanced measures and tougher sanctions so that everyone can enjoy the game in a positive and enjoyable environment.

Key updates for the 2025/26 season include:

Captains Only protocol

A Captains Only protocol is being introduced across all levels of English football. This will mean that only the team Captain can approach a match official to discuss a decision after it has been made (unless the team captain is the goalkeeper, in which case a nominated outfield player will play this role). A ‘captain-only zone’ has been introduced which extends four metres around the referee, and only the captain can enter this space. Other players are not permitted to enter this space and would receive a caution for dissent if they do. This new protocol is intended to reduce wider incidents of dissent and intimidation of match officials.

Cooling off periods

The introduction of ‘cooling off periods’ will be trialled across selected grassroots leagues as a tool to help prevent escalation during heated moments in a match. If the referee feels the game is getting too heated or unsafe, they can pause play and send all players to their penalty areas. If this happens, captains and coaches will be required to meet with the referee in the centre circle to discuss the issue and help calm their teams. Other players must stay in their penalty areas during the break, and anyone who leaves without permission would receive a yellow card. After a short timeout, based on the seriousness of the situation and conditions, the referee will restart the match.

Bodycams

In 2023, The FA became the first football association to introduce the trial of bodycams for grassroots referees, which were used in over 4,000 matches across eight leagues last season. In these matches, the bodycams were activated a total of 6 times in response to situations where the referee felt it was necessary, and used as a visible deterrent when required.

The impact of the expanded bodycam trial is being assessed and feedback is being collated from participants, match officials, and leagues to help shape the next phase of the pilot and any decisions regarding future implementation. As part of this, for the 2025-26 season, bodycams will be used in certain leagues targeted as a result of discipline records.

Under-18 Referee Armbands

Starting this season, all youth referees (those under the age of 18) will have the option to wear a yellow armband, which signifies they are not an adult. This will add further protection to our U18 referees, serving as a visual notice to players, coaches, and spectators to treat them with an extra level of respect and patience. These armbands will be distributed to all U18 referees via their respective County FAs, and while not mandatory, we are encouraging those eligible to wear them.

Penalty points accumulations to continue

Penalty points will continue to be attributed to teams for offences that are behaviour-based, such as violent conduct, dissent, or threatening behaviour. When a threshold of accumulated penalty points is reached, bespoke support will be provided to the club, and they will be asked to evidence steps that are being taken to tackle their poor behaviour. Ultimately, ongoing accumulation of penalty points can lead to removal of England Football Accreditation or even the removal of a team from a competition. Last season, 20 teams either had their affiliation immediately removed or affiliation for 2025-26 was made subject to the CFA agreeing an action plan with them ahead of the start of the season.

Continued league points deductions

Following on from the introduction of league points deductions in grassroots football in 2023, we are committed to tackling repeat offenders and points deductions can be applied to clubs where there are repeated incidents of serious misconduct, for example, discriminatory abuse from spectators.

Grassroots Code of Conduct

We will continue to embed the Respect Standard, supported by Codes of Conduct, which was launched prior to the 2024/25 season, clearly setting out expectations of behaviours in the grassroots game: Enjoy the Game; Give Respect; Be Inclusive; Work Together; and Play Safe.

Rewarding Positive Behaviour

Our County FAs are running a wide range of initiatives to recognise and reward examples of positive behaviour from their local clubs; with these initiatives including discounts on affiliation fees and local awards.

Mandatory minimum fine

A key part of our work is the continued focus on addressing the most serious of cases. These include offences aggravated by reference to a protected characteristic, threats, physical contact or assaults on match officials and player-on-player assaults. Whilst these offences only occur in 0.2 per cent of all grassroots football annually, we know the serious impact these incidents have on those within the game.

A mandatory minimum fine of £75 will be introduced for individual misconduct charges and a mandatory recommended entry point of between £100 and £200 depending on the level of football for club misconduct charges where there is a protected characteristic involved. This includes cases of discrimination against race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and disability.

Behaviour Improvement Programme

Our Behaviour Improvement Programme will run again this year following its success in the 2024/25 season. The programme uses discipline and respect score data to monitor clubs for poor conduct, including dissent, abuse of referees or players, and serious misconduct. Clubs accumulate penalty points for repeated incidents and receive respect scores from opponents, creating a league table that identifies both the worst offenders and consistently well-behaved teams. We are continuing the programme this season, which sees County FAs working directly with Clubs identified to improve repetitive poor behaviour.

The FA’s Director of Football Development, James Kendall said: “Tackling poor behaviour at all levels of grassroots football is of paramount importance to us. We are committed to creating safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for players, match officials, spectators, coaches, and all others involved in the game, and we’re clear on our position that all forms of unacceptable behaviour, whether on or off the pitch, have no place in football.

“We’ve made good progress on addressing these issues, but we recognise there is still more to be done, and we need to constantly adapt, develop and evolve our procedures in line with changes in the game to create positive environments and tackle misconduct. We’re continuing to take important steps to achieve this, and our new set of updated measures are designed to further support a culture of respect, accountability, and enjoyment across the grassroots game.”

A reminder of the FA guidance for U6s is below. Children under the age of 6 should not be permitted or encouraged to play in a football match of any kind.

To clarify, FA Rule 8(C) states the following,  A child who has not attained the age of six shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match of any kind. The rule is clear, a child who is under the age of 6 cannot play in football matches, including those arranged for competitive or ‘friendly’ purposes with other clubs.

Football clubs, coaches, parents, and organisers often wonder when children can start playing formal matches. The Football Association (FA) has clear rules about Under-6s (children who have not yet turned six). This article explains the current regulations, the rationale behind them, and how to ensure compliance.

What the Rules Say

1. Rule: FA Rule C / SCORY / Youth Code of Rules
   Under FA Rule C (Relating to Players), and the Standard Code of Rules for Youth Competitions (SCORY), the FA states:

   “A child who has not attained the age of six shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match of any kind.”

   This applies to any match, whether competitive or friendly. “Match” refers to organised contests/scrimmages vs other teams, whether formally affiliated or not.

2. Affiliated Tournaments & Festivals
   Any match between affiliated clubs (or events that involve multiple clubs) for U6s is not allowed. These rules also apply to tournaments or friendlies advertised for U6-level players.

3. Potential Consequences of Breach
   Clubs found to be arranging or participating in matches involving children under six can face disciplinary actions.
   For example, they may be charged under FA Rule E1: Failed to comply with the rules and regulations of the Football Association. 
   County FAs have also warned that advertisement of such matches (on social media, etc.) is against the rules.

3 Pairs Nike Socks £9.99

Sudden Collapse on the Pitch

Regan was playing a regular weekly game with colleagues at a leisure centre in Northallerton when disaster struck. Without warning, he fell backwards and hit his head on the ground. But the real danger was internal—he had gone into sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

A teammate with first aid training immediately stepped in, placing him into the recovery position. But when Regan stopped breathing, bystanders began performing CPR while staff called emergency services.

Critical Response From Air Ambulance Team

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance deployed a Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV), often quicker than a helicopter in built-up areas. Paramedics Terri-ann Lonie and Tom Chatwyn arrived on scene with life-saving equipment.

“Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency,” said Paramedic Tom Chatwyn.
“If the heart stops and breathing ceases, survival depends on immediate CPR and defibrillation. Every minute counts.”

When the team arrived, Regan’s pulse had returned thanks to the quick action of teammates and leisure centre staff—but he was still unconscious, and his condition remained critical.

Emergency Procedure and Hospital Transfer

Concerned that Regan’s heart could stop again, the medics prepared for Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) to secure his airway and ensure oxygen flow to his brain. With the on-site doctor already busy, another critical care doctor from a nearby air ambulance was called in to assist.

Regan was then transferred to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, where he underwent further tests.

Hidden Heart Defect Discovered

Hospital staff discovered that Regan had an undiagnosed congenital defect in his right coronary artery. This defect had led to the cardiac arrest. He underwent open-heart surgery and had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) fitted to prevent future incidents.

“You Never Think It’ll Happen at 32”

Regan, now recovering, reflected on the terrifying experience.

“At 32, you never think something like this could happen to you. The average age for a cardiac arrest in the UK is around 70,” he said.
“I can’t put into words how grateful I am—to my teammates, the leisure centre staff, and the medical professionals. Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”

⚠️ Cardiac Arrest in Football: The Hidden Risk

While rare, sudden cardiac arrest in young footballers is not unheard of. According to Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), 12 young people die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions—many during exercise or sport.

In football alone, over 60 players have collapsed due to SCA in England since 2018, as reported by sports medical journals and grassroots organizations.

Early CPR and access to a defibrillator can increase survival rates by up to 70%. That’s why the presence of trained individuals and readily available defibs is critical at all sporting events, amateur or professional.

Knowing CPR and having access to a defibrillator can make all the difference. Consider taking a course or talking to your local club or workplace about installing an AED.

As parents, we all want our children to thrive, both on and off the football pitch. Whether they’re practicing their dribbling skills or playing a game, staying hydrated is essential for their performance and overall health. However, with so many drink options available, and big brands marketing their products at children it can be difficult to know what’s best for young athletes. While sugary drinks are often marketed by brands and sports personalities as performance boosters, water remains the most effective and healthiest choice for children involved in grassroots football. Here’s why.

1. Optimal Hydration for Performance

When children play football, they sweat and lose fluids that are essential for bodily functions. Hydration helps regulate body temperature, improve endurance, and boost mental clarity. While sugary drinks might offer a quick burst of energy, they don’t provide the hydration the body needs to perform well over time.

• Water helps with fluid balance: Water replenishes lost fluids without the added sugar and empty calories that sugary drinks contain. Dehydration can cause fatigue, cramping, and reduced concentration, making it harder for kids to stay sharp during a match.
• Sustained energy: Water hydrates the body without spiking blood sugar levels. Unlike sugary drinks that can cause a rapid rise and fall in energy, water provides a steady source of hydration, keeping children energized throughout their activity.

2. Sugar and Empty Calories Are a Concern

Sugary drinks, including sodas and energy drinks, are filled with added sugars and empty calories. While they might taste sweet and refreshing, they don’t contribute any essential nutrients that support growth or athletic performance. For children who are still developing, consuming sugary drinks regularly can lead to various health concerns.

• Risk of weight gain and obesity: Consuming sugary drinks contributes to excessive calorie intake, which can lead to weight gain and, eventually, obesity. Studies show that children who consume sugary drinks regularly are at a higher risk of gaining excess weight.
• Dental health problems: The high sugar content in sugary drinks also has a detrimental effect on children’s teeth. The acids and sugars in these beverages promote tooth decay, leading to cavities and other dental issues.
• Increased risk of metabolic issues: High sugar intake has been linked to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and other long-term metabolic problems. Regular consumption of sugary drinks can affect a child’s health well into adulthood.

3. The Hydration Benefits of Water

Water, on the other hand, is a calorie-free, natural way to keep your child hydrated. It is the best way to ensure that your child maintains the fluid balance they need during physical activity, without the negative side effects associated with sugary drinks.

• Boosts brain function and concentration: Dehydration can affect cognitive function, making it harder for children to concentrate and process information. Water, by maintaining hydration levels, helps improve focus and decision-making on the field.
• Improves digestion and metabolism: Water aids in digestion and supports healthy metabolism, helping your child maintain optimal energy levels and muscle recovery during and after physical activity.

4. Better Long-Term Health with Water

Aside from immediate benefits during football games, consistently choosing water over sugary drinks sets up a pattern for healthy habits that last a lifetime.

• Supports overall health: Water is essential for various bodily functions, including nutrient transport, temperature regulation, and toxin removal. Ensuring your child drinks enough water is a simple but important step in promoting their overall well-being.
• Fewer health risks in the future: Encouraging your child to drink water now helps them avoid the long-term health consequences of sugary drinks, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

5. Practical Tips for Keeping Kids Hydrated with Water

It’s important to make drinking water fun and accessible for children, especially when they’re on the go and busy with sports activities.

• Add a splash of flavor: If your child finds water too plain, try adding slices of fruit, like lemon, lime, or cucumber, to make it more appealing without adding sugar.
• Use a water bottle: Make it easy for your child to access water during training or games by providing a refillable water bottle. Let them pick their own, so it feels personal and fun to use.
• Encourage regular sipping: Remind your child to drink water regularly, especially before and after physical activities. Hydrating early in the day and during breaks in activity helps keep them topped up.

Water Wins Every Time

When it comes to hydration for children during grassroots football, water is the superior choice. It keeps children hydrated, supports their physical performance, and provides long-term health benefits without the added sugar, calories, and health risks associated with sugary drinks.

So next time your child heads out to the football field, ensure they have a bottle of water by their side. It’s the simplest and most effective way to fuel their performance and help them stay healthy both now and in the future.

What exactly is Osgood Schlatters?

Essentially it is painful inflammation or irritation of the bone growth plate in the shin bone (tibia bone) which is just below the knee cap.

It generally happens in children between the ages of 9-14, when they have a growth spurt and is more common in boys and those who are particularly active in sport and exercise..

This condition normally goes away when your child stops growing and should not cause long lasting issues provided you manage it correctly.

What are the causes and symptoms?

If your child is very active with exercise and sport then this can lead to it. Pain below the knee cap is one of the most common symptoms, and it is often painful to touch and can be accompanied by a lump in the area of pain (the tibial tuberosity)

Your child may also find walking up and down the stairs hard to do as well and bending down onto their knees.

How can we help our kids?

Listen to your child and do NOT let your child play through the pain. This can only increase the amount of time it takes to recover, and lead to them to not being able to play the sport they love for a longer period of time!

Get an assessment from a therapist who can assess and treat where appropriate. Sports massage from a professional on the surrounding soft tissue can help reduce tension. REST is important for children with this condition. The tibial tuberosity should be pain free to touch before recommencing exercise.

Before a return to sport a period of supervised progression of exercise should take place to prepare the body. Make sure your child warms up correctly before exercise. When returning to sport a protective knee pad/support can help. Particular for sports played on hard ground. Correct footwear is important and shock absorbing insoles can help in some cases

A little foam rolling and stretching could help relieve symptoms and aid preventing the issue. Below is the links to a few exercises that could be used to help. There are plenty more out there so this is to give you a few ideas. If your child plays a lot of sport it is worth educating them on how to start to look after themselves. Its not hard and it can be done while they watch the TV too!

3 Pairs Nike Socks £9.99

Quad foam rolling
https://youtu.be/bCHk714PKW8

Hip flexor stretch – this is better with a cushion under the knee and would not be suitable if the knee is painful when rested on the floor
https://youtu.be/l8dlsdLqkxI

Calf foam rolling
https://youtu.be/NKD-vO0FGcs

Calf stretch
https://youtu.be/PJvrqVCtk7E

Hip strengthening exercises (one example here)
https://youtu.be/t_ZttZH7O-E

If you have any questions your welcome to email me at info@richknightperformance.com or even check out my facebook page www.facebook.com/richknightperformance which is full of useful self help videos which can be used by you and your family alike.

The FA have released the following guidance to outline the steps required to protect the safety of participants in grassroots football in the event of a thunderstorm.

What is ADHD? 

Adapt sessions with the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002). Space: keep the playing area familiar by using existing pitch markings – don’t use too many cones. Task: change up games and activities to reduce boredom. Equipment: use a whiteboard to show the activity and consider providing sensory toys such as fidget spinners in a safe space to help players regulate their emotions. Players: use small-sided games to keep players moving and engaged.

Here are five top tips to help you support players who have ADHD:

• Have a set space for arrival activities to get players active as soon as they arrive at the session.
• Give them individualised attention where possible. Most players with ADHD respond well to individual encouragement.
• Mix up the tasks to avoid boredom and keep the players active.
• Check with parents, carers and the player about what works best for them and what they enjoy.
• Manage excitement and anxiety. Allow for a time out to let the player refocus their attention.

More resources 

If you haven’t already, download this PDF for more information on how to support players with ADHD. It’s a handy resource to take with you to training.

And if you want to find out more about ADHD or disability football, check out these useful links:

• ADHD Foundation website
• Coaching People with ADHD Guidance (UK Coaching)
• A coach’s guide to ADHD
• England Football: Disability Section
• Disability Football Introduction Course.