As part of the “Love Football. Protect The Game” campaign, these updated rules extend a welcome boost to clubs like Beacons FC striving to lead by example on and off the pitch.
What’s Changing?
-
Captains Only Protocol
Only team captains are now permitted to approach referees in a designated “captain-only zone” (within four metres). Players encroaching this area risk a caution for dissent -
Cooling-Off Periods
In select leagues, referees can now briefly halt play during heated moments. Teams must retreat to their penalty areas, while captains and coaches convene with officials at centre circle to restore calm. Players who leave without permission receive a yellow card -
Referee Bodycams
After a successful trial across eight leagues and 4,000 matches in 2023, bodycams—used six times as visual deterrents—will continue in targeted leagues with higher discipline concerns -
Under-18 Referee Armbands
Youth referees (U18) are encouraged to wear a vivid yellow armband to signal their youthfulness and prompt greater respect from players and spectators -
Penalty Points & League Consequences
Clubs continue to accumulate penalty points for misconduct such as dissent or violent behaviour. Persistent offenders may lose accreditation or face tournament exclusion. Last year, 20 teams were subject to immediate affiliation removal or conditional approval subject to improvement action plans -
League Points Deductions
For repeated serious misconduct—say, discriminatory insults from the sidelines—league points deductions remain a tool to discourage repeat behaviour -
Grassroots Code of Conduct
Built on the “Respect Standard,” this code continues to underscore five core values: Enjoy the Game, Give Respect, Be Inclusive, Work Together, and Play Safe -
Rewarding Positive Behaviour
County FAs are offering affiliations discounts, local awards, and other incentives to clubs exemplifying excellent behaviour -
Mandatory Minimum Fines
For serious misconduct—especially those involving protected characteristics—a minimum fine of £75 for individuals will be introduced. Club sanctions begin at £100–£200, depending on the level of competition -
Behaviour Improvement Programme
Relaunched for 2025‑26 following its success last season, the programme uses discipline data and respect scores to help clubs improve. Clubs with recurring issues will receive focused support from their County FA
Why It Matters for Clubs Like Beacons FC
With these upgraded safeguards and incentives in place, Beacons FC has a clear opportunity to strengthen its reputation for fair play:
-
Encourage team captains to lead by example—especially during tense moments.
-
Use the Cooling-Off Period to emphasise sportsmanship, reinforcing it as part of the club’s culture.
-
Support local referees—especially U18s—by promoting respect for their role and acknowledging the armband initiative.
-
Aim for recognition through positive behaviour, potentially earning affiliation discounts or local awards.
-
Internalise and promote the Grassroots Code of Conduct, embedding its values into training sessions, matchday routines, and team messaging.
Together, these measures reinforce a community where everyone—players, coaches, officials, and supporters—enjoys football in a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment.
