Silent Support Weekend returns across the country on 2nd and 3rd March 2024

Having been successfully trialled last season, the Silent Support Weekend will return to youth football across the country in the first weekend of March, giving another opportunity for young players to let their football do the talking.

Silent Support helps create a more positive space for players, coaches and spectators, cutting down on unnecessary distractions from the sidelines. All youth leagues in Hertfordshire have signed up, highlighting their commitment to creating a positive environment for young players to develop.  

The goal is to find ways to make the game better for them so they can improve as players and a team. The previous Silent Support Weekends were a big success, giving young players the opportunity to explore, find their voice and take control of the game.

Overall, the benefits on player development are clear, helping players to talk more and better support their teammates. Less outside influence gave them more independence over decision making and the chance to practice key skills without instruction.

Playing in an environment with less confusing distractions also 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 enhance their playing journey.

Show your support with applause

During this Silent Support Weekend parents and supporters are asked to show their backing from the sidelines through applause only, while coaches can still provide instructions and give support to players as needed.

Further information on how to approach this weekend with a view to maximising the benefit to young players can be found in this Guidance for Coaches.

Ahead of the weekend, Hertfordshire FA CEO Karl Lingham said:

“Feedback from previous Silent Support Weekends showed clear benefits for young players, who told us they enjoyed matches with less outside interference and a calmer atmosphere on the sidelines, allowing them to focus on playing the game. This was reinforced in our recent consultation which highlighted how people saw the value of these events in making spectators think about their behaviour and giving players the freedom to learn for themselves.”