What is a CRB Check?
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) provides wider access to criminal record information through its Disclosure service. It enables organisations to make safer recruitment decision by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially that involving children or vulnerable adults.
All levels of football will benefit from the checks being carried out by The FA Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Unit on people with access to children in football.
For more information on CRB checks please contact the County Office.
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How do I set up a team/club?
Northamptonshire FA are in the process of producing some guidelines for organisations wishing to set up a new club.
Until these are available please contact the Football Development Team for more information.
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How do I find my local club?
Northamptonshire FA have a "Find a Club" Section under the "Get Into Football" section of this website. The search will help you to identify a team in your locality by postcode, distance from a particular area, team name, gender and/or age group. You can also search for clubs accredited with FA Charter Standard.
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How do I write a Development Plan?
For help and assistance please contact the Football Development Team.
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I have a qualification, where can I get coaching experience?
For help and assistance please contact the Football Development Team.
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What is Mini Soccer?
In 1999 Mini-soccer was implemented as the form of football for Children Under 10 years of age. Girls and boys are introduced to the game on smaller pitches, smaller goals and fewer players. The aim is to provide a quality experience for all players at all levels. The Football Association deem Mini-soccer as the most appropriate and fun introduction to football.
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What is Futsal?
Futsal is the FIFA/UEFA recognised form of small-sided football. Many Countries that we admire for the technical skills of their players use Futsal as an aspect of Youth Development. Ball retention, quick and skillful play and tactical awareness are all promoted in Futsal. Futsal is played on a pitch marked with sidelines. The ball (size 4) is a low bounce, slightly heavy ball.
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How much football should my child be playing?
In any one day, no player should play more than the stipulated period below:
Age Group Minimum duration of participation per day per player. Maximum duration of participation per day per player
Over 6 & Under 8s 10 Minutes 45 Minutes
Over 8 & Under 10s 15 Minutes 60 Minutes
Source: Mini-soccer Handbook
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What size pitch/ball should I be playing with?
The size of football to be used shall be:
• Size 3 is recommended for Under 8's
• The ball should be no larger than size 4 for mini-soccer (up to U10's)
• Size 4 for those playing U11-U14 age groups
• Size 5 for those playing in 14+ age groups.
For pitch sizes please contact the County FA.
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What age group should I be playing in?
The FA operates a strict 2 year age band in Youth football. The oldest player on the pitch must not be more than 2 years older than the youngest player on the pitch.
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What is Charter Standard?
The FA Charter Standard is the Football Association's Kite mark of quality. Accreditation is available for all clubs, schools, colleges and holiday courses. Please contact the Football Development Officer if you are interested in the FA Charter Standard Scheme.
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How do I become a qualified coach?
It is recommended that all new potential coaches should complete the FA Club Coach Award (FA Level 1.) The course is 28 hours and includes elements of practical and theory work. All candidates will also complete a FA Child Protection workshop and an FA Emergency Aid qualification. For more information please contact the Football Development Administrator.
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What is FACA?
FACA is the FA Coaches Association. The objective of FACA is "To affect positively the attitudes, ethics, knowledge and performance of football coaches."
Benefits include:
• FACA Membership card (on completion of a successful FA CRB check)
• Subscription to the Official half yearly journal of FACA "Insight."
• Access to the official on-line coaching resource.
• £5 million Civil Liability Insurance Protection.
• Personal Accident insurance protection.
• Exclusive Education & Training Opportunities
• Coaching Merchandise
• FACA Resource Catalogue
• FA CRB Enhanced Disclosure.
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