We know that poor behaviour on the sidelines has a detrimental impact on the game and have introduced new training to help clubs to tackle it

While this behaviour may not be immediately dangerous or intentionally harmful, it does set a poor example and if it remains unchallenged, could result in an environment developing around the game in which abuse may be able to take place.

From players to parents, coaches to club officials, we have a collective responsibility to create a positive football experience for all. To help support this Hertfordshire FA have put together a training package with the aim of supporting clubs in tackling poor behaviour by more effectively utilising their Match Day Delegates.

This project is led by members of our staff across several different areas, as it covers aspects of Safeguarding, Discipline and Football Development. The initiative has also been supported by many of the youth leagues in the county, who understand the importance of taking action to tackle poor sideline behaviour.

The training focuses on the roles and responsibilities of Match Day Delegates, providing those attending with the skills to be able to challenge the behaviour that falls below the required standard set by clubs or leagues in their Codes of Conduct.

Alongside this we cover how any issues can be reported, either through Club Welfare Officers or direct to the County FA, so they can take appropriate action. We also look at the process it may then go through, whether that means a formal safeguarding or discipline case, or being dealt with at the club level, depending on the threshold it meets.

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New training aligns with upcoming Play Safe Weekend

Our first session was held on Wednesday 26th September at the Lamex Stadium, home of Stevenage FC, with local youth clubs invited to attend. This was specifically selected to maximise the potential impact of the training, being an area that experienced a number of incidents that led to poor practice cases last season.

AFC Walkern, Stevenage Borough Juniors, Stevenage Starlets and Bedwell Rangers Youth all sent individuals from their clubs to attend and become the first Match Day Delegates to receive this training from Hertfordshire FA.

They will put their new skills into action starting this weekend, which is also The FA’s national Play Safe Weekend. This event highlights the importance of Safeguarding across football and raises awareness of the part that everyone involved in the game has to play in creating a safe and positive environment for everyone to enjoy.

We are determined to make Hertfordshire a better place to play but know we cannot tackle poor behaviour alone. We are grateful to the clubs attending this session and the leagues that have supported the development of this training.

If you would like your club to be involved in our next Match Day Delegate training session, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Manager, Gemma Chaffey.

Hertfordshire FA’s Match Day Delegate Training was developed with the support of the Royston Crow Youth Football League, Hertfordshire Girls Partnership League, Watford Friendly League, Herts Youth League, and Mid Herts League