Publishing results in mini soccer
East Riding FA would like to remind all those involved in the game that results for U7s, U8s, U9s, U10s and U11s must not be published – in any format.
On the whole the vast majority of leagues, clubs, coaches and parents / carers support this stance and understand the need to let young people play with freedom and creativity without being shackled by the pressure of achieving results.
Both the Hull and District Youth Football League and the East Riding Girls League understand and promote this ethos as their websites continue to not publish match results. However, with the increased use of social media, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter etc, results can now be published in a variety of different ways by individuals associated with the grassroots game. That is why we feel it is important to remind everyone involved in grassroots football that results are not important and that the focus should be placed on the development and enjoyment of the player.
Although results from games cannot and should not be shared participation in mini soccer should still be celebrated. We want to hear about the experiences of youngsters in grassroots football in East Riding and help support and promote the fantastic efforts and work going on across the county. We also know coaches, parents and carers want to talk about football across social media. As an example if your team has won you could post "A fantastic performance from my team today, so proud of everyone involved'. What isn't acceptable is "A fantastic performance from my team today, so proud of our 5-0 victory".
Social Media is a fantastic tool to communicate and East Riding FA is fully aware that the majority of people use this appropriately. It is important to remember though that comments on these networking sites are considered public, and anything deemed improper which brings the game into disrepute could lead to disciplinary action. It is the responsibility of everyone in grassroots football to reduce and eradicate threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting behaviour, and the interactive environment is no different.
The FA's 'We Only Do Positive' campaign aims to promote and educate coaches and parents on their roles in creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment for all the players, ensuring they have great experiences throughout their football journey. You can also join England manager Gareth Southgate in pledging to make the match-day experience a positive one for all involved.
We know the last few months have been a testing period for everyone involved in grassroots football. Thank you for help in making East Riding the best place to play and enjoy football.
