National Silent Support Weekend
As WAHYFC only does positive, this weekend, 5th and 6th November 2022, we’re joining in with the first National Silent Support Weekend to promote Respect in Youth Football, and our teams, coaches, parents, spectators and players will play an important part.
Imagine if you were trying to do something and the people around you were shouting their views on what you were doing. It wouldn’t be a positive experience for you, and it is certainly not a positive experience for our young people when they are playing football.
We’re encouraging spectators and coaches to show their support during the match through applause only. This will reduce pressure and confusion and give players a better opportunity to find their own voice and develop their game.
So, all you have to do is not talk but you can applaud good play from both teams.
What to do at the Silent Weekend?
• Allow players to make mistakes
• Allow players to make their own decisions
• Applaud good play and effort from either team
What are the benefits of the Silent Weekend?
• Players can concentrate on the game and not be distracted by the touchline
• Players develop independent learning and decision-making
• Coaches can assess the teams communication skills
What are the coaches supposed to do if they can’t communicate?
Please give clear instructions to players before the game starts, take notes during the game, and use half time or quarters to communicate to players positively. Coaches can also communicate with players through the captain or substitutes during suitable breaks in play.
Please join us and play your part on Silent Support Weekend, 5th and 6th November 2022.
