Updated guidance for grassroots game
The FA has updated the guidance given to coaches and players of grassroots football teams following an easing of restrictions from Government.
The association released a document last week to provide information for players, coaches, facility operators, parents and carers involved in the restart of grassroots football, with restrictions changing slightly from July 4. This included practical tips for coaches working with individuals, pairs or in slightly larger groups.
The latest Government guidance permits football training and fitness activities in groups of no more than six, including the coach, while keeping socially distant at all times. There should be no physical contact with anyone outside of your household or bubble.
The FA said it continued to be in active discussions with other sports, Sport England and the Department of Digital Culture, Media and Sport as to how it can aid the safe return of competitive grassroots football ‘as soon as is reasonably possible’.
The document for adult grassroots sport said the phased return of the game following COVID-19 must be done with careful consideration for everyone’s safety – especially vulnerable groups. It urged groups returning to training to follow the guidance strictly.
Players must maintain good hygiene such as hand washing before, during and after sessions and they should also travel to training in separate cars. Changing rooms, showers and club rooms should remain closed, but access to a toilet may be permissible.
Players should avoid touching equipment, cones and footballs frequently, if put out by a coach, and parking and one-way systems around the club should be implemented if possible.
Drinks shouldn’t be shared by players. Anyone who becomes symptomatic either before or during the session should stay at home or remove themselves from the session.