National Silent Support Weekend
THE FA’s first National Silent Support Weekend takes place over November 5th and 6th 2022.
Suffolk FA are supporting the Silent Support Weekend which is aimed at promoting good behaviour on touchlines across grassroots youth football.
The weekend will encourage spectators and coaches to show their support during the match through applause only.
The aim is to reduce pressure on youth players at grassroots level and give them a better opportunity and environment to find their own voice, improve their on-pitch communications skills, develop their own game, and most importantly have fun.
Across the National Silent Support Weekend, The FA and Suffolk FA encouraging coaches and spectators to show their support by applauding good play from both teams but refraining from talking or shouting.
This is to create an enjoyable, safe and developmental experience for all youth players, so that they can play the game with freedom, without pressure, and without an over-emphasis on winning at all costs.
FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham said: "The National Silent Support Weekend is designed to promote respect in youth football. It gives players an opportunity to focus fully on their game and not be distracted by the touchline.
"As a grassroots coach, I have taken part in trials and seen the benefits first-hand. It was so well received by the players that we have worked with County FAs to offer the first National Silent Support weekend.
“We hope a large number of clubs across the country will join in and provide a fun environment for young players to find their voice."
Suffolk FA Designated Safeguarding Officer and Services Manager Hayley Chart said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for spectators to have a positive impact on children’s football and highlight that their actions can speak louder than words.
“Poor spectator behaviour is sadly a growing issue in the game. Grassroots football should be all about children having fun and enjoying their football, so I am looking forward to them taking centre stage.
“We hope that as many clubs as possible around the county will take part and we look forward to hearing players feedback from this event.”
For further information and to sign up and play your part on Silent Support Weekend, please click the below link.
