The Junior Premier League is delighted to back The FA Silent Support Weekend, taking place on Saturday 25th February.

The purpose of Silent Support Weekend is to allow young players to find their voice, make their own decisions and take control of their game. Help us listen to young players to make our youth game the best place to play football.

The FA have supplied a range of guidance and assets for our member clubs and coaches. Please download these assets so you can share them across your teams: https://we.tl/t-xfPWKJ82pX

After the first Silent Support Weekend our young players told us it allowed them to talk more as a team, with more chances to make decisions and overall, it was more enjoyable. However, they missed the support of their coach. The trial is being run again, this time the coach will be able to coach through the match.

We’re asking spectators to work together with coaches to provide a supportive and encouraging space for the players during the match. The coach can help the players where needed throughout the match. And everyone can applaud good play from either team. There will be an opportunity to give feedback directly to The FA about the experience.

Here are some quotes from the first Silent Support weekend:

“It’s giving them space to find their own game.”
Under 12s coach

“They are talking to each other more, playing their own game, this was the best way to try it out.”
Under 10s coach

It was good as we got to make our own decisions, not the parents, not the coach, just the team.”
Under 12s player

“It can get confusing when lots of people are telling you what to do”
Under 14s player

We want you, your club and teams to join us and be part of it and tell us what you think.