05 REQUIREMENTS - to start playing |
Refer to |
General
Before a ball is kicked a number of issues need to be considered: |
|
Essential
(a) Firstly a playing area that has sufficient space available
to meet your requirements including a pitch marked out as
specified in the Little League Football Rule Book (11-a-side) or
Section 16 (mini-soccer). The pitch should be reasonably flat
and maintained by the Groundsman, who will cut the grass
(subject to budget limits!!) and re-mark the white lines
regularly.
(b) Adequate and separate toilet facilities for both
boys and girls.
(c) Secure storage space for equipment
Highly Desirable
(d) Suitable changing rooms with separate facilities
for both boys and girls, including washing facilities. With three
matches taking place during a normal morning’s programme a minimum
of two good size changing rooms are desirable. Hot water for washing
is a luxury that even the most grimy player wishes to avoid and
although not essential may well be used. |
Rule 4.1.2.1.Section 16 |
| Bonus
(e) Cafe facilities make the morning more enjoyable, act as a
'social centre' and also provide a fund raising opportunity for
your league. |
|
EQUIPMENT
Note: The NEC can advise on the purchase of suitable
equipment, possibly at a preferential price.
|
|
| Goalposts
11-a-side goals must conform to the size specified in the Rule
Book. If not permanently installed they should be constructed to
allow for ease of erection and dismantling (every match day). It
is recommended that suitably safe attachments are on the cross
bars to allow the nets to be located speedily. It is essential
that the sockets are sunk permanently and capped when not in use
to ensure that the posts remain in an upright position and are
secure for safety sake. Wooden goals are not recommended
as they can fall short of modern safety standards. |
Rule 4.1.2.1 |
|
Goalnets, Corner posts and flags, size 4 footballs
(match and training)
These are obtainable from any reputable sports shop, but shop
around for the best prices. Do not be afraid to ask for a discount,
who knows where it may lead to particularly if you have further
equipment and kit requirements!The NEC bulk buy good
quality size 4 footballs and re-sell these at cost to local
Leagues. Size 3 balls are recommended for children under 8.
Rope and Rope Stakes
(First check with your local authority if they have a view or
even a bylaw restricting their use on Health and Safety grounds.)
Sufficient rope is required to surround the pitch and is supported
by stakes placed at regular intervals. (It is estimated that 300
metres of rope and 12 stakes will be sufficient)
Alternatively ask the groundsman to put an additional line
beyond the touch and goal lines beyond which spectators
must not encroach. The line should be three yards from the
touchline at the halfway line, tapering to two yards at the goal
lines. You can decide locally which is the better
alternative. |
Appx C |
|
Team Benches (2 off)
Of strong construction and placed on either side of the half way
line for specific use of Team Managers and Substitutes. |
|
|
First Aid
See section 7A |
Section 7A |
|
Trolley
Remember that you will have to move all the required equipment
to pitchside and return it to your secure storage area. You may
find it advantageous to beg, steal, borrow or even invest in some
form of a trolley to transport the equipment. This will encourage
volunteers to help. |
|
Buying Kit
Sizes vary from each manufacturer so be sure that you order the
sizes that adequately suit the teamAs a guide always aim to buy
shirts, shorts and socks in youth sizes as opposed to boys. The
buying of kit is very important and you may be advised to talk
to an established league for further guidance on quantities, appropriate
size ranges and quality.In the first season the kit is new and
is issued to the teams. The kit should be handed in to the Team
Manager at the completion of the season, with old strip being
replaced, if necessary, during the close season. Some Managers
may prefer to retain the kit during the season. Some Leagues may
hold a limited stock of shirts that can be swapped for a larger
or smaller size during the season to accommodate the team's circumstances.
Being a major expense, kit replacement is a matter for the Committee
to decide.
| |
