Sin Bin

The league would like to bring to everyone’s attention the Sin Bin rule that was introduced to Grassroots football back in 2019.

We believe that as soon as coaches and referees start to implement this then the issues surrounding behavioural issues on the pitch would drop. When this was initially trialled by 31 leagues, 25 of which found an overall reduction in dissent amongst the players and across all of these leagues there was a total reduction of 38%.

Once a player is sent off for 8 minutes due to dissent towards the referee, this player cannot be swapped with a substitute – so that team is reduced by one player on the pitch. Further dissent from other players will result in more players being side lined for 8 minutes.
So a way to counter this would be for the team coach/manager to substitute these players in order to calm them down and advise what the outcome would be should they continue.

To be clear on one point – the referees decision is final, and no matter what you, the players or parents think of their decision making – their decision is final.
Obviously, it is important that the referee has an understanding of the Rules of the game and they also need to try and make impartial decisions – some of the reports that the league receives due to behavioural issues have come from the referee not being unbiassed / impartial and this needs to be addressed by the teams / clubs that appoint them.
The league arranges training sessions to help coaches and parents who carry out this thankless role and if you are interested in joining a session then please contact your Club Secretary, who will enquire with the league.
Another, very important, point to make is that ALL referees involved with refereeing Junior football matches must have a valid in date FA DBS check having been made against them. It is the sole responsibility of the person appointing the referee to check that this is in place.

Football at Junior Grassroots level is to ensure that our players have development in a fun and competitive environment and the last thing that everyone wants is for there to be a brawl at the end of the fixture; it is NOT to do with a ‘win at all cost’ mentality and the league will not tolerate such behaviour.
Clubs must take full responsibility for conduct at matches, with Coaches and other adults setting the highest standards of positive behaviour being positive examples for the young players – which in turn will make the whole football league experience enjoyable and fun for all.

Here are some informative links relating to the Sin Bin rule: