Silent Support Weekend: Encouraging Positive Matchday ExperiencesEDMSL is proud to be joining the FA in supporting the Silent Support initiative on the weekend of 15th & 16th March. This nationwide campaign promotes a calm and supportive matchday environment, giving young players the chance to develop their confidence, communication, and decision-making skills on the pitch.The idea is simple: spectators and coaches show their support through applause only, avoiding shouting or giving instructions. By reducing sideline distractions, players can focus on enjoying the game, learning, and growing as individuals.What Does Silent Support Involve?Spectators: Support through applause rather than words—no shouting or coaching from the sidelines.Coaches: Lead by example - talk only when needed, and remind parents of the guidelines before matches.Everyone: Celebrate all of the players’ efforts in a positive and pressure-free atmosphere.Why It MattersThe Silent Support Weekend is part of the FA’s Respect campaign, aimed at creating a fun and inclusive environment in youth football. The goal is to empower young players to develop their skills while ensuring football remains enjoyable for all involved.Thank you for your cooperation in making this initiative a success. Let’s show our players that support comes in many forms—sometimes, silence really is golden!For more details, visit the FA’s Silent Support page or click below to download the Coaches guide.

The FA No Heading trial is now confirmed as a rule change for the 24/25 along with changes to the throw-in.  Linked below are the details and rationale behind the change which will apply to ALL EDMSL matches. Click to see the Full announcement from the FAClick to see Video explaining Heading Law ChangeClick to see Video explaining ‘pass-in’ and ‘dribble-in’Click to read: How to Coach when heading IS allowedClick to read: How to Coach when heading IS NOT allowed

Manager & Coach Qualification Requirments for new Season 24/25It is a requirement for England Accreditation that each team must have the following Manager and Coach Qualifications this season:Every Person Pitchside must have:Valid DBSSafeguarding Qualification - Safeguarding Children CourseAt least 1 Present with - IFAIF - (Emergency Aid)All must be attached to the Team on Whole Game and appear on the team squad list with a picture. (A picture can be uploaded by visiting myaccount.thefa.com)In addition there must be allocated to the team on WholeGame, but does not have to be present at Matches:At least 1 with - ITCF - (Level 1) All must be attached to the Team on Whole Game and appear on the team squad list with a picture. (A picture can be uploaded by visiting myaccount.thefa.com)In addition it is a safeguarding recommendation that every team has 2 x  DBS/CRC qualified adults present at training and matches and a requirement for England Accreditation that one person is present with an indate ITCF for club training events.

We’ve had a number of incidents across the age-groups related to the wearing of jewellery during matches.  This was highlighted in the managers meetings, but to confirm, jewellery of any sort cannot be worn during a match and must be removed.  Using tape to cover jewellery is not permitted. This is an FA rule, not League imposed (we simply enforce it).  The following link provides guidance, and please note that a caution can be issued if a player refuses to remove an item.  https://www.hampshirefa.com/news/2021/may/27/a-reminder-about-dangerous-equipment.  Please ensure parents and players are aware, and please brief your parent ref’s as to the steps they should take if they spot a player wearing jewellery.