FA Silent Support Weekend
The Silent Support Weekend will return Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th February, giving another opportunity for the players to do the talking in junior grassroots football, with parents and supporters showing their support from the sidelines through applause only.
Last November, the FA the the first national pilot of the Silent Support Weekend with the aim being to allow youth players to explore their own game, find their voice and take control of the game.
And the FA are now putting on a second weekend on, to hear from our youth players and find out how to make the game better for them so they can improve as players and a team.
The FA received feedback from over 3000 people who participated last time around, and they have taken that on board to tailor the next Silent Support Weekend.
This time around the coaches will be permitted to coach throughout the match, with parents and supporters showing their backing from the sidelines through applause only.
This allows the players to not only step up, but feel they can get support from their coach if they need too.
Following the first Silent Support Weekend with clubs and leagues across England, below are some of the reactions from the young players:
“It was good as we got to make the decisions not our coach, not our parents, just the team.” - U12s player
“I think as a team we don’t really talk enough. We got a bit better in the second half but it’s something I think we need to work on.” - U15s player
“I play better, when nobody shouts at me.” - U9s player
“It can get confusing when lots of people are telling you what to do.” - U14s player
However, they did miss the support and guidance from their coach.
Overall, the benefits on player development are clear, it helps them to talk between players and support their teammates.
Less outside influence gave them more independence and the chance to practice key skills without instruction. It allows the players to identify areas for development and explore new tactics on the pitch, which all supports their own development of critical thinking and their playing journey.
Both the Hull and District Youth Football League and East Riding Girls Football League are taking part in the weekend and have requested that teams join them in supporting the Silent Weekend. A number of resources to help clubs promote Silent Weekend to coaches and parents can be found by clicking on the link below.