YOUTH football should be fun when the grassroots game returns.

That was the message during a CPD event for Suffolk youth coaches when meeting the new FA East Region Coaching Team.

Wednesday night’s online event, which was hosted by Suffolk FA, was attended by more than 40 coaches from across the county.

They were introduced to two members of the new FA East Region Coaching Team – Regional PE Officer Amanda Greensdale (above left) and Regional Coach Development Officer Joanne Williams (above right).

They talked through their roles at The FA and how COVID-19 has affected the coaching department at The FA.

The over-riding message was that the emphasis following the resumption of football should be about having fun rather than fitness and formations, with coaches helping players rekindle their love of the game, enjoy socialising with peers and teammates again, and regain their confidence after such a challenging last 12 months.

Those in the session also considered what players will be looking forward to, any anxieties and nervousness participants and parents/guardians could be feeling ahead of football resuming, and how The FA’s four corner model to player development might be reflected in their practices and delivery.

Amanda and Joanne also gave some pointers on running coaching sessions and ensuring the environment is safe as well as a fun environment.

Suffolk FA County Support Officer Ruth Ward, who organised the session, said: “I would like to thank all the coaches for attending the event and Amanda and Jo for hosting.

“We are looking forward to working together in continuing coach development within the county and our Youth teams returning to grassroots football in a fun and friendly environment in the near future.”