Contents...within your football club The Football Association Charter Standard Clubs incentive scheme initiatives such as Active Sports, Ability Counts, Asians in Football and Kick

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Contents

Introduction

1. Sports Equity Within Your Club

2. Effective Action Planning

3. Player Recruitment

4. Coach Recruitment andDevelopment

5. Refereeing

6. Club Administration (FootballWorkforce)

7. Effective Football ClubAdministration Programme

8. Child Protection and Best Practice

9. Appendices

i. Contact listii. Membership registration formsiii. Membership registeriv. Attendance registerv. Press release guidelinesvi. Risk assessment/goal post

safetyvii. The Football Association range

of coursesviii. Annual review formsix. School/Volunteer

Co-ordinators Roles

The Football Association are committed to supporting grassroots clubs to raisestandards of football provision. Club Development form an integral part of the FA’sfive year Football Development Strategy.

The Football Association Charter for Quality recommends that the player is central toall developmental needs and aspirations. The Football Association Charter StandardClubs Scheme encapsulates this philosophy by assisting clubs to provide qualityexperiences for all players.

Your County Football Association has developed a 3-year strategic plan to supportgrass roots clubs including the implementation of the Effective Football ClubAdministration Scheme, a volunteer strategy, a coach education programme and FAchild protection training courses to managers and officials. With the support fromyour County Football Development officer, your club should be able to aspire toeither Charter Standard, Charter Standard Development Club, Chartered StandardCommunity Club or Adult Club status in the future.

The Development Manual has been designed for clubs at all levels to improve theservice you provide and assist you to raise standards and adopt good practice.However the manual is only a tool to assist your development. Remember to contactyour County Football Development Officer, Assistant Girls Football Officer or FARegional Development Manager for further assistance and training.

Programmes such as Charter Standard, Mini Soccer, Active Sports, Top SportFootball, disability and social inclusion (equity) and the Youth Games all rely heavilyon the quality of the clubs available in order to provide quality playing opportunities.

Introduction The Football Association arecommitted to supporting grassrootsclubs to raise standards of footballprovision. Club Development formsan integral part of the FA’s five yearFootball Development Strategy.

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In the continuously changing and fluid environment in which football is developed, it is essential to support and equip football clubs with the necessary structures andbest practices to improve standards and remain sustainable.

This Club Development Manual has been produced in consultation with a number of clubs at different stages of development. It therefore reflects the needs of theseclubs and provides guidance to support these needs, including;

• The Future – identifying and planning the way forward for your club.

• Methods for recruiting new players, coaches and volunteers.

• Referees

• Club Administration

• Opportunities to identify and source new methods of funding, including theFootball Foundation.

• Dealing with parents of children involved in your club.

• How to achieve and the benefits of achieving Charter Standard status.

• Child Protection

• Coach Education Pathway and FA Qualifications

• Providing playing opportunities for social excluded groups and young people with a disability

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The Football Association iscommitted to providingopportunities for everyone toparticipate in football regardless oftheir ethnicity, disability or gender.The FA has adopted the followingethics and sports equity policy:

Ethics and sports equity in footballis about fairness and respect forpeople. It is about equality of accessand opportunity, recognising thatinequalities exist and taking practicalsteps to address them. It is aboutrecognising that football needs toensure that it is equally accessible to all member of society.

The Football Association is workingin partnership with a number ofagencies to ensure that the wholecommunity has the opportunity to become involved in a club.

1.Sports equitywithin yourfootball club

The Football Association CharterStandard Clubs incentive schemeinitiatives such as Active Sports,Ability Counts, Asians in Footballand Kick it Out campaign will assistthis objective.

The Football Associationrecommend to all clubs• The adoption of an equal

opportunities policy or a sports equity policy

• The adoption of an anti-discrimination policy

• Codes of conduct for players, coaches, parents, spectators and clubs

• Members attend a sports equitytraining course

To further enhance and supportequal opportunities in the sport,The Football Association hasproduced

"Equity guidelines and examples of good practice in football" (see resource list).

Before embarking on thedevelopment of your club, taketime to review the communitywithin which your club is locatedand take stock of the service youare providing and how this couldbe expanded.

Ethics and sports equity in football is about fairness and respect forpeople. It is about recognising thatfootball needs to ensure that it isequality accessible to all member of society.

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2.Effective actionplanning

Planning ahead is the easiest wayto help any club develop. AnAction Plan provides a frameworkfor development that will requirethe co-operation of all of thosewithin the club. A simple ClubDevelopment Plan can also openup potential grant aid opportunitiesthat will allow you to ensure youhave the finances to put the planinto action.

In producing a Club Action Planyour club will need to identify;• What are the aims of the club

within the plan?• What are the objectives

of the club within the plan?• What methods will be used?• Who will be responsible?• The time-scales in which

objectives can be achieved.• The financial resources required.

Before your club writes an ActionPlan you need to identify ‘Whereare we now?’, ‘Where do we wantto be?’, ‘How do we get there?’ In order for you to ascertain whatstage your club is at, have a go atcompleting the ‘Building a qualityClub’ worksheet on the next page.

Then have a look at the rest of the manual before you attempt to write your clubs Action Plan for the future. It is advisable tohave two or three people involvedin producing the plan to ensure itmeets the needs of the whole club.Please refer to the example ShortTerm Action Plan enclosed.

Remember it is a good idea toreview your plan on a regular basisbut particularly at the end of thefootball season (see appendix 8).

A simple Club Development Plancan also open up potential grantaid opportunities that will allow you to ensure you have thefinances to put the plan into action.

Charter Standard Club

Question Yes No Planning Need to do this Assistance

1. Does your club have a written constitution? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does it make reference to:• Affiliation ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Management Committee ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• AGM/Additional Meetings ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Accounts ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Membership Procedures ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Child Protection ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Code of Conduct ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Disciplinary Procedures ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Equity ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Public Liability Insurance ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

2. Do you follow the Football Association’s Child Protection Policy, Procedures and Practices? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Do you have a designated Child Protection Person? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Has your Child Protection Designated Person attended the Football Association 3 hour Child Protection Workshop? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does your club follow the procedures and good practice in recruiting volunteers as advised by The FA, including the screening of volunteers? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

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Charter standard:Building a better future

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3. Are all of your managers and coaches in receipt of at least a FA Assistant Club Coach/Junior Team Manager Award? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

4. Would a representative of your club attend at least one in-service training event a year? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

5. Does your club have a Code of Conduct? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does it include:• Coaches/managers ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Players ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Spectators/Parents ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does it make reference to:• Fair play ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Equity ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Respect ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Behaviour ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Expectations ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If you are able to answer yes to the above questions, you may be eligible to receive the Football Association Charter Standard Club Award.

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Charter Standard Adult Club


6. Has your club adopted The FA model constitution? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If No, does your club have a constitution? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does it include:• Committee meetings ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• AGM ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Accounts ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Membership Procedures ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Disciplinary Procedures ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Equity ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

7. Does your club have Public Liability Insurance? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

8. Does your club have a Code of Conduct for• Players ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Coaches/Managers ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Team Officials ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Spectators ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

9. Will your club adhere to FA Child Protection Policies and Procedures? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

10. Does every team have a person with a First Aid qualification? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If you are able to answer yes to questions 6-10, you may be eligible to receive the Football Association Charter Standard Adult Club Award.

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Charter Standard Development Club


11. Does your club meet the Charter Standard Club Criteria (Questions 1 to 5)? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

12. Does your club have a Development Plan? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If yes, does it include?• Recruitment/retention policy ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Mini soccer ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Links with schools ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Links with boys/girls football ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Staff development programme ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Development of new teams ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Exit routes ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

13. Do you offer at least 5 teams, at a minimum of 4 age groups? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

14. Is at least one of your managers/coaches qualified to certificate level? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

15. Will your club commit to attending at least two in-service training events per year? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If you answered yes to questions 11-15 you may be eligible to receive The Football Association Charter Standard Development Club Award.

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Charter Standard Community Club


16. Does your club meet the previous criteria (Questions 1 to 15)? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

17. Has a representative of your Club completed a Soccer Parent Course? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

18. Does your club have a Schools Liaison Officer? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

19. Does your club have a Volunteer Co-ordinator? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

20. Does your club have a Football Development Plan? ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Does it include specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timebound targets against:

• Development of new teams ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Links to schools ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Volunteers ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Coach Education ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Disability ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Referee Development ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• In-Service Training ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• FA Community TOPS ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Links to clubs ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Links to professional clubs ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■• Communication Plans ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

If you answered yes to questions 16-20 you may be eligible to receive The Football Association Charter Standard Community Club Award.

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Objective Method Responsibility Timescale Resources Costings Required

To run an annual Mini-Soccer festival which includes girls and boys from Primary Schools

To set up a Mini-Soccer team (mixed.)

To set up girls U11 team

To Recruit and trainthree new coaches to minimum JTM level

Recruitment of Officials

Example of a FootballAction Plan:

Aim: to increase the number ofopportunities for women and girlsto be part of the football club.Outcome: To work towardsbecoming a Charter Standard Club.

In partnership with thelocal authority, contactschools and organisefestival

To invite girls and boys toregular Mini-Soccersessions at the club.

In partnership withSchools, Local Authority /SFA provide taster sessionsfor girls.

In partnership with CountyFA identify course. Talk toparents / volunteers whoare interested.

In partnership with CFAidentify small-sidedreferees course. Talk toparents /volunteers whoare interested

John – contact LA repitches and publicity.Paul – Organise facility andcoaches.Donna – producecertificates and club flyers.

Julie to produce clubleaflet, invitation letter.

Les to book facilities,Donna to organise coach,Lucy to liaise with LA toproduce publicity.

Andy to find courses,Rachel to identify coaches.

John to find course.

Les to identify volunteers.

April 2000

May 2000

May 2000

September toJanuary 2000

August 2000

• Venue• Small-SidedGoals• Match balls• Officials• Prizes

• Facilities• Publicity• Postage• Equipment• New Kit• Coach• New Kit• Equipment• Publicity• Coach• Facilities

• Fees – FA Course.• RunningSport/NCF/Child ProtectionCourseFees

LA to provideBorrow from LA

Club Balls£30£20 certificates

£10 per week

£5£50 (new balls)£300No cost£300£50£10No cost£10 per week

£35 each

£20 each course

£20 each

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Objective Method Responsibility Timescale Financial Costings Resources

FootballDevelopment Plan

Aim: Achieving Charter Standard Club

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

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Aim: To Recruit and Retain, Players and Volunteers

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

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Aim: to increase the number ofopportunities for mini soccer

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

1515



Aim: Develop Links with Local Schools

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

1616



Aim: Develop Links/Opportunities for Boys/Girls

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

1717



Aim: To Increase Staff/VolunteerDevelopment Opportunities

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

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Aim: Develop New Teams, Ensure ExitRoutes into the Game for Members

_____________________________________Football Club

__________________________________________Season

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3.PlayerRecruitment

Identifying Clubs Needs

It is essential to identify a club'srecruitment needs in order toselect the appropriate group totarget. Factors, which may affecttarget group selection in order todevelop the club, i.e. junior, youthor senior players are as follows:

• Demand from the localcommunity.

• Existing playing opportunities(e.g. Local Authority/Football inthe Community Schemes/OtherLocal Clubs).

• Existing league opportunitiesavailable (e.g. Mini-Soccer,Girls/Boys League, CountyLeague etc).

• Local Schools, Colleges orUniversities who are able toprovide new players.

If a group is targeted in order toattract new members, it is importantthat the appropriate structure andsupport of the whole club is in placeto cater for the needs of the playersand that there should be a localopportunity where that new clubscan play games. It is also importantto remember that every playerjoining your club will probably do sofor very different reasons.

Benefits of targeting specificgroups

Senior Players

a) Are needed to strengthen anddevelop existing senior andreserve sides.

b) Assist with the general runningof the club, especially coachingyounger players and being rolemodels.

c) Generate income throughincreased membership.

d) Bring organisational skills to theclub, through their existing job.

e) Raise people from playing sideas role models to Junior YouthPlayers, reflecting exit route forJunior Players

Junior Youth Players

a) Are the future of the sport andof your club.

b) Provide future Players,Coaches, Officials andAdministrators for all teams.

c) Help raise the profile of the clubin the local community.

d) Provide an opportunity toidentify parents who may havefootballing or organisationalskills; they may wish to assistthe administration ororganisation of the club.

e) Assist in the development ofexisting Coaches and canbecome potential Coachesthemselves.

f) Generate income by increasedmembership and enhance the likelihood of grant aid (see Funding Handbook)

g) Provide better access to localauthority and school facilitiesand equipment

h) Are offered the chance toparticipate in meaningfulactivities which support a youngpersons health and social skillsdevelopment

It is important that the appropriatestructure and support of the wholeclub is in place.

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Methods of Recruitment

There are numerous methods of attracting players to clubs.Activities to recruit new players can be organised in partnershipwith Local Authority, SportsDevelopment Officers, Football inthe Community Officers, CountySchools Associations, CountyFootball Association, FootballDevelopment Officers.

Recruiting in partnership withexisting football providers willensure your club gains maximumpromotion opportunities and thatevery potential player is aware thatyou are developing a new team.

Player Recruitment (Juniors)

• Come and Try It, IntroductoryCoaching Sessions.

• Taster Days.

• Kick Start Coaching Schemes(Active Sports)

• Coaching Courses.

• Top Sport Community FootballClubs.

• Mini-Soccer Centres.

• Coaching Weeks/HolidayCourses

• Festivals.

• Club Open Day/ParentsMeeting

• Taster Sessions in Schools.

• Posters/Flyers/Adverts

• Press Releases.

• Local Business/Sports Centrecompetition.

• Youth Games.

• Tournaments.

• Club Information Leaflet (See FA Resources Leaflet)

• Recreational Games

• Veterans

It is important to keep records of players once they have beenrecruited to your club in case ofemergencies etc (see Appendix 3).

It is also essential that all newlyrecruited players are issued withyour clubs Code of Conduct (SeeCode of Practice handbook).

Insurance

All football clubs are urged toobtain adequate insurance coverfor their players in case of injury oraccident whilst playing or travellingto matches.

This may even be mandatory forsome competitions or CountyFootball Associations. Clubs mustalso protect themselves byobtaining suitable public liabilityinsurance and coaches personalinsurance. For further informationplease contact your CountyFootball Association.

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4.CoachRecruitment andDevelopment

Qualified Coaches

It is imperative for the developmentof the game that all coaches at alllevels within clubs hold a recognisedFA qualification or are workingtowards becoming qualified.

Recruitment of suitable Coaches

Research has consistently shownthat the major factors, whichmotivate individuals to becomeinvolved in coaching are:

• A desire to continue theirinvolvement in sport afterplaying and continue to meettheir competitive needs.

• A desire to help young peopleto develop sport, particularlytheir own children.

• A desire to put something backinto sport. (Source: SportsCouncil.)

When recruiting new coaches it is always useful to contact yourCounty Football AssociationFootball Development Officers orLocal Authority Sport DevelopmentOfficer to seek advice.

Remember when recruiting tofollow the advice from the ChildProtection and Best PracticeWorkshop and from the section in this manual on recruitment.

Finding new coaches is not an easytask, however, it is a good idea totarget the following group ofindividuals:

• Ex players or players who arecoming to the end of theirplaying career.

• Students particularly thosestudying Physical Education or Sports Degrees related to A-Level Physical Education,G.N.V.Q Leisure and Tourism,C.S.L.A students, Junior FootballOrganisers and Women’sFootball Academy students.

• Parents/Cares. (This could bepart of your Soccer Parentsessions).

• Young players to work towardstaking a qualification, workingalongside more experiencedcoaches.

• Teachers, particularly those whohave an interest in football.

• Advertising within the localcommunity.

The Football Associationrecommends for the safety andwelfare of coaches and players, the following measures areadopted when recruiting coaches;

• Clubs should follow the FA BestPractice and Procedures.

• Coaches should be required to complete an application formidentifying experience,qualifications and references.(See Recruitment).

It is imperative for the developmentof the game that all coaches at alllevels within the clubs hold arecognised FA qualification.

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• Coaches should be required to be interviewed.

• Coaches should be required to sign up and deliver the clubsCode of Conduct. (See Code of Practice Handbook).

• Coaches should be required towork in pairs wherever possible.

Coach Development

Helping Coaches to becomequalified and develop is a keyfactor in the development of clubs.

The Football Association provides a range of courses for Coaches atall levels. (See Appendix 7).

It is recommended that all Coachesjoin the Football AssociationCoaches Association (FACA) tokeep coaches up to date. FACAprovides the following services andsupport to Coaches; ContinuedProfessional Development, regularcoaches magazine (Insight),insurance cover and access toresources.

Sports Coach UK also provide an extensive range of supportingcourses, such as, ‘Working withChildren,’ ‘Fitness and Training’and many others. For specificdetails regarding these coursescontact your Sports DevelopmentOfficer or Sports Coach UK (SeeAppendix 1).

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5.Refereeing

There are three main advantagesfor clubs to develop their ownreferees:

1. If no referee is appointed toyour game you have some onewith knowledge and experienceto officiate

2. If a referee is appointed to yourgame you have aknowledgeable andexperienced assistant

3. You have someone available to assist in educating yourmembers with regard to thelaws of the game, so enhancingtheir enjoyment of football.

How to become a Referee

All county Football Associationsregularly organise referee-trainingcourses.

The course, which lasts for 12hours usually over a 6 weekperiod, is completed once thepotential referee has successfullyundertaken an exam.

The new referee should registerwith their County FootballAssociation.

What Happens Next?

On passing your exam, youbecome a Class 3 referee. Under16’s are class 2Y and can onlyofficiate in youth football.

Many County FootballAssociation’s organise a mentoringsystem to support the newlyqualified referees.

For those who take to refereeingand enjoy the unique andimportant role of referee’s play infootball, there is a career pathway.

Refereeing Onwards and Upwards

Class 3

Refereeing local football.Through your performance youmay be promoted to Class 2.

Class 2

As well as refereeing in localfootball, you may also be invited tobe an assistant referee on a supplyleague.

Class 1

If your performance as a Class 2merits promotion, you will becomea Class 1 referee.

There could be the opportunity toreferee at supply league and be anassistant referee of a contributoryleague. If you reach this level therefereeing bug will really havecaught hold and the sky’s the limit,with the National list to be yourtarget.

The sky’s the limit, with theNational list to be your target.

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6.ClubAdministration(FootballWorkforce)

What is the Football Workforce?

The Football Workforce is animportant FA programme whichrecognises the value of volunteersto the development of football atevery level of the game.

The Football Workforce is aprogramme that aims to:

“Build a skilled, well supportedvolunteer workforce, who enjoyundertaking clearly defined rolesand responsibilities and whosework is recognised and valuedthroughout the organisation andbeyond”.

You told us:

“I do it for the love of the gamebut I wish I had more help”

“In an average week, I give 20hours to my voluntary job infootball and that’s after I get homefrom work!”

“I took the job on because therewas nobody else to show me whatI was meant to do.”

“It would be nice to beappreciated, a thank you doesn’tcost anything.”

The Football Workforce will helpyou to…

• Recruit more volunteers intofootball

• Retain volunteers within thesport and help them to worksmarter, not harder

• Recognise and reward the workof all volunteers

Who is the Football Workforcedesigned to help?

The Football Workforce is foreverybody working within footballwhether paid or voluntary – we’reall part of the same team.

The Football Workforce focus willbe on volunteers working forfootball particularly at grass rootslevels.

The Football Workforce can beused by club secretaries, teammanagers, mini soccer organisers,league organisers, in fact, anybodywho works alongside volunteers infootball.

Whether you’re running a one-team club or administering a largeleague, volunteering problems arevery similar but on different scales!The Football Workforce suggestsideas that can be adapted to thesmallest or largest club or league.

What will the Football Workforcelook like?

The Football Workforce is anevolving programme ofinformation, ideas, packages andproducts that can help to providesome practical solutions toeveryday volunteering problems.

You told us:

“We just don’t seem to be able toencourage parents to get involved”

“People just don’t seem to realisewhat’s involved in running theclub”

“We’re losing out on manypotential volunteers because theycan’t afford to take on jobs withouthaving their expenses reimbursed”

“People are afraid to get involvedin case they are asked to take onmore work than they can manage”.

The Football Workforce is foreverybody working within football

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The Football Workforce aims tomeet the challenges like these.The programme was launched in2001 providing guidance notes onideas for recruitment of volunteers,retaining volunteers and advice on working smarter not harder. Since then, over 5,000 clubs/organisations have benefited from the resource.

How can we use the FootballWorkforce?

• As a checklist for good practice;how well does your club orleague rate?

• To find solutions to problems

• To generate new ideas, newapproaches

• To share good practice – The Football Workforce aims toact as an information exchange(more about this in the midseason notes)

• To access information andresources which you can adaptfor use in your own club, leagueor county association

Where will we find the FootballWorkforce information?

Contact your County FAoffice/Volunteer Co-ordinator, orvisit The Football Associationwebsite at www.TheFA.com. Get the latest information,products, ideas and programmes at the touch of a button.

In addition you might wish to clickonto the County FA EffectiveFootball Club AdministrationProgramme (EFCA) for courses on Club Administration, Finance,Youth Football, PR, Marketing andFundraising, Soccer Parent andVolunteers.

For a copy of the FootballWorkforce information pack andfolder please write to:

Football WorkforceFA Football DevelopmentProgrammeThe Football Association25 Soho SquareLondonW1D 4FA

Once you’re on the mailing list,you will receive details of theFootball Workforce products and programmes are they aredeveloped.

If you are already part of a clubthat needs extra help, please writeto your County FA Volunteers Co-ordinator with details of theassistance you require and FootballWorkforce will try to help.

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7.Effective Football ClubAdministration

The Football Association, inconjunction with Sport England,has established the EffectiveFootball Club Administration(EFCA) programme aimed atdeveloping the administration of grassroots football clubs.

The EFCA programme forms partof the Football Workforce initiative,supporting everyone at thegrassroots of the game.

The following sets out informationabout who will benefit from theEFCA programme, how theindividual workshops arestructured, and how to sign up.

What is EFCA?

It is a modular programme aimedat increasing the effectiveness ofclub officials working withingrassroots football.

Benefits:

• Recognises the strategic role ofadministrators

• Improves essential knowledgeand skills

• Increases club efficiency• Initiates the sharing of ideas and

good practice• Enhances full-time employment

prospects• Encourages officials from varying

football backgrounds to meet

What does EFCA include?

It is a programme of sevenworkshops for club administrators.You can attend workshopsindividually or even sign up for all seven. The following sectionoutlines the contents of the fourworkshops.

Workshop 1

Running a Club – for clubsecretaries

• Defines the roles and qualities of the Club Secretary

• Describes ways in which thesecretary can work smarter notharder

• Outlines the club’s obligations to its league and County FA

• Describes ways in whichvolunteers can be recruited andretained

Workshop 2

Club Finances – for club treasurers

• Describes the roles of the ClubTreasurer

• Identifies simple rules in lookingafter the money

• Financial requirements for Clubs• Lists possible sources of funding

Aimed at developing theadministration of grassroots football clubs.

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Workshop 3

Developing Youth Football – foryouth team co-ordinators

• Lists the benefits of introducingyoung people to the footballclub

• Identifies the factors thatcontributed to a quality youthsection/club

• List ways of obtaining help fromthe community to support youthfootball

• Guidance on Child Protectionissues for clubs

Workshop 4

Marketing and Sponsorship – forclub officials with responsibilities in these areas

• How to devise an outlinemarketing plan appropriate to the club’s needs

• Ways of publicising the footballclub

• Production of press release• Funding and fund-raising

opportunities• Preparation of a sponsorship

proposal

Workshop 5

Club Development – for clubofficials with responsibilities inaction planning for the future

• An introduction to the principlesof football development

• Guidance on the principles ofplanning

• How to devise and write a clubdevelopment action plan

Workshop 6

Volunteer Management – for clubofficials who are responsible forthe management and support ofvolunteers

• An introduction to the role of the volunteer

• Bringing the FA FootballWorkforce Resource to life

• Recruitment and retention of volunteers

• How to reward volunteers

Workshop 7

Soccer Parent – to encouragefootball clubs to work pro-activelywith parent

• Ideas and resources for workingwith parents

• How to ensure parents areaware of club policies

• Making parents aware of theirresponsibilities

Programme Delivery

• Each workshop lasts 2-3 hours

• Each workshop outcome istailored to the needs of theparticipants

The delivery is interactive,encouraging participants to reflecton their own practice, and tocontribute positively to groupdiscussions and activities

How to Sign up

EFCA training courses are beingorganised in conjunction withCounty Football Associations. For further information, pleasecontact your County FA.

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The FA Child Protection DepartmentLilleshall Hall National Sports CentreNewportShropshireTF10 9ATTelephone: 0207 745 [email protected]/Goal

The FA/NSPCC HelplineTelephone: 0808 800 5000Asian Helpline: 0800 096 7719Welsh Helpine: 0800 100 2524Deaf users - Textphone 0800 056 0566www.nspcc.org.uk

Goal resources available fromThe Media GroupSt. Peter’s HouseSt. Mary’s WharfMansfield RoadDerbyDE1 3TPTelephone: 01332 [email protected]

LinksChild protection is high on TheFA's agenda. The goal is to havesomeone at every club in thecountry aware of child protectionand best practice, whether it's aPremiership Academy or a Sundaymorning park side. For CharterStandard Clubs, of course, it's a must.

Already 40,000 people havereceived their certificates afterattending The FA's Child protectionand best practice workshops. Theseare organised via County FA's on aregular basis. Now, The FA haslaunched Child protection and bestpractice - A guide. This is anintroduction to child production thatcan be worked through at home onVHS or CD-ROM. Details can beobtained through logging on towww.TheFA.com/Goal.

High-profile Ambassadors are alsobacking Goal. Sir Bobby Robson andAlan Shearer are already behind theproject, along with Hope Powell, theNational Women's Coach.

The FA believes football can have a powerful positive influence onchildren and young people. But thatmeans everyone involved in footballmust take on the responsibility oflooking after those children whowant to play the game.

8. Goal Child protection and best practice

Goal is about doing things the rightway; doing things properly. It’sabout allowing children to enjoy the game without abuse of anykind. That means bullying, physical,emotional or sexual abuse andneglect.

Every week, The FA's web sitecarries updates on child protectionissues relevant to the game. Thesite also contains The FA's childprotection policy and procedures,as well as guidelines and advice.These can be downloaded free of charge.

The site carries a link to theNSPCC, with details of TheFA/NSPCC child protectionHelpline. This is a free serviceoffering child protection advice andinformation for anyone in football.

The FA has also made availablemany resources to help developGoal, most of which are availablefree of charge. A web site link toThe Media Group enables clubs to order free posters, leaflets andinformation cards that support The FA's drive for higher standardsin child protection.

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9.List ofAppendices

1. Contact Lists

2. Membership Registration Forms

3. Membership Register

4. Attendance Register

5. Press Release Guidelines

6. Risk Assessment/Goal post Safety

7. Football Association Range of Courses

8. Annual Review Forms

9. School/Volunteers Co-ordinators Roles

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Appendix 1:Contact Lists

Useful Contacts

Kelly SimmonsHead of National Football Development 020 7745 4588

Les HowieNational Club Development Manager 020 7745 4601

Steve WilliamsNational Facilities Manager 020 7745 4757

Donna McIvorNational Football Development Manager 020 7745 4601(Education)

Jo KnightleyEducation and Club Development 020 7745 4601Administrator

Nigel MooreCounty Co-ordinator 0207 262 4542

Ros PottsNational Football Development Manager 020 7745 4597

Dermot CollinsNational Small Sided Development Manager 020 7745 4596

Regional Development Managers

Graham Keeley North West 07971 536 727

Paul Harrison North East 07971 536 728

Steve Goodsell South East 07904 382 324

Jeff Davis London 07971 536 729

Andy Mitchell South West 07971 536 723

Helen Croft North 07904 110 397

Rachel Pavlou West Midlands 07971 537 230

Jamie Houchen East Midlands 07904 193 292

Louise Tideswell East Midlands 07904 793 293

Lucy Wellings South 07904 536 726

Regional Facilities Managers

Andrew Hailwood North 07984 003 469

Mark Liddiard East Midlands & East Anglia 07984 003 466

Eamonn Farrell North West & West Midlands 07904 266 696

Roger Reed London & South East 07932 391 096

Louise Baker South & South West 07984 003 460

Regional Referee Managers

Alan Wilkie North 07984 003 465

Vernon Crew North East 07984 003 464

Eddie Lomas North West 07984 003 463

Derek Bray East Midlands 07984 003 467

Ray Oliver West Midlands 07984 003 468

Keith Hill East 07984 003 461

Edward Stone London 07984 003 474

Ian Blanchard South East 07984 003 475

Janie Frampton South 07984 003 476

Roger Vaughan South West 07984 003 477

Contact AddressThe Football Association25 Soho SquareLondonW1D 4FA

COUNTY FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION CONTACTS

County Football Associations

Bedfordshire 01582 565 111

Berks & Bucks 01234 345 285

Birmingham 0121 682 2525

Cambridgeshire 01223 576 770

Cheshire 01606 871 155

Cornwall 01726 74080

31

Cumberland 01900 872 310

Derbyshire 01332 361 422

Devon 01626 332 077

Dorset 01202 682 375

Durham 0191 384 7006

East Riding 01482 221 158

Essex 01245 240 901

Gloucestershire 01454 615 888

Guernsey 01481 246 231

Hampshire 02380 791 110

Herefordshire 01432 270 308

Hertfordshire 01462 677 622

Huntingdonshire 01480 414 422

Isle of Man 01624 615 576

Jersey 01534 500 270

Kent 01634 812 032

Lancashire 01772 624 000

Leicestershire & Rutland 0116 233 3105

Lincolnshire 01427 614 134

Liverpool 0151 523 4488

London 020 8690 9626

Manchester 0161 232 3108

Middlesex 020 8424 8524

Norfolk 01603 717 177

North Riding 01642 321 696

Northamptonshire 01604 670 741

Northumberland 01434 606 944

Nottinghamshire 0115 977 3219

Oxfordshire 01993 778 371

Sheffield & Hallamshire 0114 241 4999

Shropshire 01743 362 769

Somerset 01752 721 265

Staffordshire 01785 256 994

Suffolk 01473 407 290

Surrey 01273 328 401

Sussex 01903 753 547

West Riding 0113 282 2358

Westmorland 01539 730 946

Wiltshire 01249 657 800

Worcestershire 01905 827 261

Sports Coach UK

114 Cardigan RoadHeadingleyLeedsLS6 3BJ0113 274 4802

Childline

Freepost IIILondon N1 0BR0800 1111

NSPCC

National Centre42 Curtain RoadLondonEC2A 3NH0900 900500

Youth Sports Trust01509 228293

Sport England020 7273 1500

Football Foundation020 7534 4210

32

Appendix 2:MembershipRegistration Form

Full Name: __________________________________________________

Home Address: ______________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Post Code: __________________________________________________

Home Tel No: _______________________________________________

Date of Birth: _______________________________________________

Ethnic Origin (Please tick) White ■■Chinese ■■Black African ■■Black Caribbean ■■Black Other ■■Pakistani ■■Indian ■■Other (Please specify)____________________________

Player Position (If applying as a playing member) (Please tick)

Goalkeeper ■■ Defender ■■ Midfield ■■ Forward ■■

Non Playing Skills

Coach ■■ Administrator ■■ Fundraising ■■ Other ■■

Education Details (If applicable)

Headteacher: ________________________________________________

PE Teacher: _________________________________________________

School: _____________________________________________________

Address:____________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

County: ____________________________________________________

Postcode: ___________________________________________________

Current School Year: __________________________________________

Telephone No: _____________(STD Code) ________________________

Medical Details

Please indicate if you have any medical conditions we should be aware ofe.g. asthma

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

33

Appendix 2:EmergencyParent/CarerDetails

Status (Please tick): Mr ■■ Mrs ■■ Ms ■■ Other ________

First Name: _________________________________________________

Surname: ___________________________________________________

Emergency Telephone No: _____________________________________

Mobile No: _________________________________________________

In the event that the above named person cannot be reached, please givetwo extra emergency contact names and numbers:

Name: _____________________________________________________

Emergency Contact No: _______________________________________

Name: _____________________________________________________

Emergency Contact No: _______________________________________

Parental Consent

In the event that my son/daughter is injured whilst playingfootball/travelling to and from football events and I cannot be contactedon the above number, I hereby give my consent for my child to receivemedical attending.

Signed: ____________________________________________________

Print: ______________________________________________________

I agree to be bound by and to observe the Club Rules and The Rules andRegulations of The Football Association Limited and Football Association,and all Competitions in which the Club participates.

I enclose £___________ as a membership fee to be repayable if thisapplication is not successful.

I consent to disclosure by County Football Association.

Signature: __________________________________________________

34

Appendix 3:MembershipRegister

Name Address Date of Birth Date In/Out

35

Appendix 4:TrainingAttendanceRegister

Name Date

Age Group:

36

Appendix 5:PressReleaseGuidelines

Promoting Football

Many people in the footballindustry have a poor view of themedia - often because negativefootball stories achieve largerheadlines - but, due to the hugepublic interest in the game, theirpower in communicating messagesto a wide audience is unrivalled.

Whilst it often appears that themedia is only interested in thesenegative stories, tremendousopportunities do exist, to promoteyour activities and the role offootball generally.

Developing a Media Strategy

Effective communication with theMedia should ideally be managedthrough a strategy, which sets outwhat messages you want tocommunicate, and how you goabout doing it.

Develop the message you want toget over

• What does your Association/Club do? Provide a ‘profile’,outlining your full range ofactivities is a useful tool to have,to help external organisationsgain an understanding of thescope of your work

• Information about regularactivities: competitions, coachingcourses, refereeing

• New developments: grants, localinitiatives and sponsorship deals

Who Communicates?

• Identify a Press Officer

• Encourage your associations,leagues and affiliatedorganisations to do the same

• Establish internal lines ofcommunication to ensure therelevant information gets to thepress officer for dissemination

Get to Know Who Your LocalMedia Are

• When and where they appear• What audience they cover• Identify sections or programmes

that can be planned in advance• Be aware there are other issues

which will also need to beaddressed at short notice

• Regular: fixtures/results forcompetition

How to Communicate?

• Press releases• Bulletins and newsletters• Posters, leaflets, websites etc• Personal contacts

Effective Communication Tools

• Press Releases• Telephone Interviews• Face to Face Interviews• Photocall Opportunities• Local Radio• Regional Television• Open Days/Special Events• Sponsorship• Newsletters & Bulletins• Developing Long-Term

Relationships with the Media

Producing a Good Press Release

• The date• A good headline with the

correct layout• The key message should appear

in the first paragraph:- Who?- What?- Where?- When?

• Check spelling and grammar• Note to editors, contact name

and telephone number• If you are the nominated

spokesperson, make sure YOUare available

Tremendous opportunities do exist,to promote your activities and therole of football generally.

37

Appendix 6:Risk Assessment/Goal Post Safety

Venue: _____________________________________________________

Date of Check: ______________________________________________

Name and position of person doing check: ________________________

___________________________________________________________

PLAYING/TRAINING AREA

Check that the area and surroundings are free from obstacles.

Is the area fit and appropriate for activity?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline the hazard, who may be at risk and action taken, if any).

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

GOAL POSTS

Check that it is fit and sound for activity and suitable for age group/ability.

Are the goal posts safe and appropriate for activity? (Please refer to Goalpost safety leaflet)

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline unsafe equipment, who may be at risk and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

PLAYERS

Check that the players register is up to date with medical information andcontact details

Check that players are appropriately attired for the activity.

Is/are the register(s) in order?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline current state and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Are players appropriately attired and safe for activity?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline unsafe equipment/attire and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Source: Sport England

38

EMERGENCY POINTS

Check that emergency vehicles can access facilities, a working telephoneis available with access to emergency numbers and that exit points areclear.

Are emergency points checked and operational?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline the issues and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Is a working telephone available?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline the issues and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

SAFETY INFORMATION

Check that evacuation procedures are published and posted somewherefor all to see. Ensure that volunteers and staff have access to informationrelating to health and safety.

Are emergency procedures published and accessible to those withresponsibility for sessions in the club?

Yes ■■

No ■■(Please outline what information is missing and action taken, if any)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Does the club need to take any further action? (If yes, please specify)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Signed: ____________________________________________________

Name (Print): ________________________________________________

Date: ______________________________________________________


39

Guidelines forDealing with anIncident/Accident

1. Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation.Is there danger of further injuries?

2. Listen to what the injured person is saying.

3. Alert the first-aider who should take appropriateaction for minor injuries.

4. In the event of an injury regarding specialisttreatment, call the emergency services.

5. Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are adequately supervised.

6. Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency medics.

7. Contact the injured person’s parent/guardian.

8. Complete an accident report form.


40

Incident/AccidentReport Form

NAME OF CLUB

___________________________________________________________

1. Site where accident took place:

_______________________________________________________

2. Name of person in charge of session/competition:

_______________________________________________________

3. Name of injured person:

_______________________________________________________

4. Address of injured person:

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

5. Date and time of incident/accident:

_______________________________________________________

6. Nature of incident/accident:

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

7. Give details of how and precisely where the accident took place.Describe what activity was taking place e.g. training programme,getting changed, etc.

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

8. Give full details of the action taken including any first aid treatmentand the name(s) of the first-aider(s).

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

9. Were any of the following contacted:

Police: Yes ■■ No ■■

Ambulance: Yes ■■ No ■■

Parent/Guardian: Yes ■■ No ■■

10. What happened to the injured person following the accident? (e.g. went home, went to hospital, carried on with session)

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

11. All of the above facts are a true and accurate record of theincident/accident.

Signed:_____________________________________________________

Name (Print): ________________________________________________

Date: ______________________________________________________

41

Appendix 7:The FootballAssociation Rangeof Courses

Levels FA Coach Education Courses Course Content

1

2

3

Levels FA Medical Courses New Changes

1

2

3

4

1st4Sport Level 1 Certificate in CoachingFootball (Club Coach)

1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate in CoachingFootball

1st4Sport Level 3 Certificate in CoachingFootball

FA Emergency Aid Course

FA Basic Treatment and Management of Injury Course

FA Intermediate Treatment andManagement of Injury Course

FA Treatment and Management of Injury Diploma

Aimed at anyone over 16 years of age with an interest in running football teams.Practical ideas for training session, Child/Player Development, laws of the game,administration, Child Protection and emergency aid are well covered.

Aimed at those over 16 years of age with regular practical experience ofparticipation in football. Practical work around technique practices, skill practicesand small sided games together with work on Coach/Player Development,planning, preparing and evaluating, growing up, nutrition, ethics, fitness, Laws ofthe Game, Child Protection, emergency aid are included and candidates have theopportunity to be assessed on their ability to coach.

Aimed at those over 18 years of age who hold the 1stSport Level 2 Certificate inCoaching Football and are working with a team over a period of time, with the aimof making a significant contribution to the performance of the team.Practical work includes functional practices, small sided games and phases of playtogether with work on nutrition, fitness, psychology, drugs awareness, recognitionof injuries, match analysis, preparing, planning and evaluating.

Candidates will have the opportunity to be assessed on their coaching ability.

• Retained• 3 Hours practical tuition

• Retained• Course duration now 12 hours• Pre-Course Work Book• Course Syllabus and Assessment Procedures amended to enhance student

learning

• Retained• Course duration now 4 hours• Pre-Course Work Book• Course Syllabus and Assessment Procedures amended to enhance student

learning

• Retained• Pre-Course Work Book• Extends over 2 years• Increased course contact hours on residential modules• Additional in-course projects

42

Appendix 8:Annual Review Form -Players

___________________________________________________________Football Club Annual Review Form

Another season has come and gone. Firstly we would like to thank everyone of the players, coaches, managers, officials, volunteers,administrators, parents and supporters for all of their hard work thisseason.

In order for the club to continue to develop, the Committee wouldappreciate five minutes of your time to complete this form.

Players

1. Age group and coach

___________________________________________________________

2. Did the coach help you to learn any new skills/techniques at training?(If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

3. Were the training sessions enjoyable? (If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

4. What did you enjoy the most about the training sessions?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

5. What would you most like to change at training?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

6. Did you play competitive football this season? (If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

7. Do you want to play competitive football next season?(If yes, which age group?) (If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

8. Have you any new ideas to help improve the club?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

The Club would like to thank you for completing this form.

Please return to:

43

Appendix 8:Annual Review Form -Coaches




Coach Name: _______________________________________________

1. What age group did you coach?

___________________________________________________________

2. Did you have sufficient?

Space? _____________________________________________________

Equipment? _________________________________________________

Support? ___________________________________________________

Time? _____________________________________________________

If no, how could this be improved?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

3. Do you feel your players learned new skill/techniques this season?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

4. What aspects of your training sessions were you pleased with?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

5. What areas would you like to improve?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

6. Did your team have sufficient competitive opportunities at the rightlevel this season? (If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

7. Are there any training courses you would like to attend?(If yes, do you have any specific courses in mind?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________


Please return to:

44

Appendix 8:Annual Review Form -Parents/Guardians




Parent/Guardian

1. Age group and coach of child?

___________________________________________________________

2. Do you feel your child learned any new skills/techniques at training?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

3. Did your child enjoy coming to football training sessions/competitivegames? (If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

4. Does the coach have a good rapport with (a) your child (b) the team?(If not, how do you think this could be improved?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

5. Are you happy to leave your child in the care of your child’s coach?(If not, why not?)

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

6. Have you any ideas to help improve the club?

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________


Please return to:

45

Clubs may wish to appoint a Volunteer and/or School Co-ordinator/Liaison Officer

Role : Volunteer Co-ordinator

The role could include

• Recruiting new volunteers

• Ensuring volunteers are provided with an induction to the club

• Provide volunteers with a brief of their role

• Ensure that there is a training programmeavailable for volunteers

• Ensure that volunteers are rewarded

Resource : FA Football Workforce

Appendix 9:Roles

Role : Schools Liaison Officer

Look to establish links with local schools by:

• Meeting with local school at least twice per year

• Be a contact for local schools

• Ensuring local schools receive information on the club

• Establishing ways the clubs can support the schools football programme

The FA Football

Developm

ent Programm

eC

harter Standard Club

Developm

ent Manual

The Football Association25 Soho Square London W1D 4FA

Telephone +44 (0)20 7745 4545 Facsimile +44 (0)20 7745 4546

[email protected]

Documents

Contents...within your football club The Football Association Charter Standard Clubs incentive scheme initiatives such as Active Sports, Ability Counts, Asians in Football and Kick