Take A Breath

Take A Breath

Following the announcement that grassroots football could return from Monday the 29th of March we are all delighted to see the game finally return this week after a lengthy period on the sidelines.

 

Many of us have struggled during lockdown, some more than others and the football community has pulled together once again to help each other in these unprecedented times.

 

Despite the fantastic news that grassroots football is returning and the benefits this brings to thousands of individuals in our county to not only their physical health but mental health too, we also wanted to highlight the following sharp rise in serious misconduct cases reported to us here at West Riding FA after the previous two national lockdowns:

 

  • 50% rise in serious disciplinary misconduct cases reported after the first lockdown
  • 60% rise in serious disciplinary misconduct cases reported after the second lockdown

 

Many people have been isolated for months and will be naturally delighted to be back outdoors and engaging with other people, however we are asking the football community in West Riding that should emotions or situations appear to start getting the better of them to simply ‘take a breath’ which may prevent some of these incidents from escalating as we return to the game we all love after a third national lockdown.

 

Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold it for 4 seconds, breathe out for 4 seconds and repeat is a simple tactic that may prevent some incidents from escalating as we return to the pitch. 

 

Reece Sockett, West Riding FA Football Services Officer, said “Following previous lockdowns there has been a spike in the amount of the discipline misconduct reports submitted.

 

With this in mind we urge everyone to take a breath and be mindful of their actions and language and we ask that people respect each other to help create a safe and enjoyable environment for all in the game.”

 

Hannah Simpson, West Riding FA Chief Executive, said “Take a breath isn’t about removing the natural frustrations that come with the game, it’s about personal control. It’s about taking the time to stand back, reflect and react appropriately.

 

As an organisation we will be promoting this initiative to all our participants and would encourage everyone to follow suit to create a healthy, fun and caring environment for all. We look forward to seeing you on the pitch.”

 

Clubs, Leagues and District FAs can help spread the message by sharing our ‘take a breath’ posts on our social media channels. There is also a poster that can be downloaded here to distribute accordingly.

 

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