Referee Specific Covid-19 Guidance on restarting competitive grassroots football
The FA have issued this detailed guidance which must be used in addition to The FA’s returning to National League System (NLS) football, found HERE.
Please remember, all Referees are reminded to only return to football when it’s right for them to do so. There is no pressure to return and there will be no consequence or judgement for not returning. Everyone’s health, well-being and safety are the priorities.
General Principles
The overriding principles to help safeguard the well-being of all match officials in the match day environment are to:
• minimise face to face contact where possible
• avoid lengthy periods of time in enclosed spaces
• ensure appropriate hygiene protocols are always in place
• encourage maintenance of appropriate social distancing measures
The FA and the Leagues are aiming for a September start of competitive matches in FA Competitions and the NLS; however, this is subject to change in accordance with Government guidance and approval for paying spectators, which may be published from time to time. NLS (or relevant FA Competition) fixtures are proposed to commence on:
• FA Cup: Tuesday 1st September 2020
• Step 1 & 2: No earlier than Saturday, 5th September 2020
• Steps 3 & 4: Saturday, 19th September 2020
• Steps 5 & 6: From Saturday 5th September 2020
Should Government guidance change in response to the current Covid-19 Alert Level, The FA guidance will be updated accordingly.
Thank you in advance for playing your vital part in helping our great game get going again. By observing Government guidance and the football-specific protocols, let’s work together to ensure the transition back to competitive football is as smooth and safe as possible.
Continue reading the Referee Specific Guidance on Returning to NLS Football
Read Covid-19 guidance on re-starting competitive grassroots football – For Referees
