Questions:
Answers:
What is a CRB Check?
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) provides wider access to criminal record information through its Disclosure service. It enables organisations to make safer recruitment decision by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially that involving children or vulnerable adults. All levels of football will benefit from the checks being carried out by The FA Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Unit on people with access to children in football. For more information on CRB checks please contact the County Welfare Officer.
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How do I set up a team/club?
The County FA have produced some guidelines for organisations wishing to set up a new club/age group. Please have a look at the guidelines in Development, then Club Development section of this website. If you have any queries please contact the Football Development Team.
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How do I find my local club?
The County FA have a "Find a Club" Section under the "GetIntoFootball" section of this website. The search will help you to identify a team in your locality by postcode, distance from a particular area, team name, gender and/or age group. You can also search for clubs accredited with FA Charter Standard.
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How do I write a Development Plan?
For help and assistance please contact the Football Development Team.
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What is Mini Soccer?
In 1999 Mini-soccer was implemented as the form of football for Children Under 10 years of age. Girls and boys are introduced to the game on smaller pitches, smaller goals and fewer players. The aim is to provide a quality experience for all players at all levels. The Football Association deem Mini-soccer as the most appropriate and fun introduction to football. It allows greater involvement in the game, with more touches on the ball, dribbles and passes.
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What is Futsal?
Futsal is the FIFA/UEFA recognised form of small-sided football. Many Countries that we admire for the technical skills of their players use Futsal as an aspect of Youth Development. Ball retention, quick and skillful play and tactical awareness are all promoted in Futsal. Futsal is played on a pitch marked with sidelines. The ball (size 4) is a low bounce, slightly heavy ball.
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How much football should my child be playing?
In any one day, no player should play more than the stipulated period below:
Age Group Minimum duration of participation per day per player. Maximum duration of participation per day per player:
- Over 6 & Under 8s 10 Minutes minimum and 45 Minutes maximum
- Over 8 & Under 10s 15 Minutes minimum and 60 Minutes maximum
Source: Mini-soccer Handbook
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What size pitch/ball should I be playing with?
The size of football to be used shall be:
- Size 3 is recommended for Under 8's
- The ball should be no larger than size 4 for mini-soccer (up to U10's)
- Size 4 for those playing U11-U14 age groups
- Size 5 for those playing in 14+ age groups.
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What age group should I be playing in?
The FA operates a strict 2 year age band in Youth football. The oldest player on the pitch must not be more than 2 years older than the youngest player on the pitch.
To identify the qualifying dates of birth for your age group, please consult the County FA handbook.
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What is Charter Standard?
The FA Charter Standard is the Football Association's Kite mark of quality. Accreditation is available for all clubs. Please contact the Football Development team if you are interested in the FA Charter Standard Programme.
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How do I become a qualified coach?
It is recommended that all new potential coaches should complete the FA Level 1 Award in Coaching Football. The course is 28 hours and includes elements of practical and theory work. All candidates will also complete a FA Safeguarding Children workshop and an FA Emergency Aid qualification. For more information please contact a member of the Football Development team.
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What is the FA Licensed Coaches Club?
The Licensed Coaches Club replaces FACA and costs just £12 to affiliate every season
Coaches signing up to The FA Licensed Coaches Club will receive a number of benefits:-
* Access to a new website with online resources, session plans, coaching news and a coaching network.
* Free England tickets (ballot entry for every England team).
* Discounts on FA Learning courses.
* Access to accredited local training events.
* FA Photo Coaching Licence.
* Option to purchase insurance, Public and Civil Liability and physio care.
* Option to sunscribe to The FA’s new coaching magazine, The Boot Room.
* Option to subscribe to UEFA coaching tool, TaxtX.
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