STEVENAGE TOWN YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB FAQ
Q1. Who can play?
Anyone! We take both boys and girls in most of our teams, with all sorts of abilities.
We do encourage parents to ensure their child has at least kicked a ball before bringing
them along so that we know they're interested in playing! Please note that the FA does
not permit girls to play in mixed teams above the age of 11.
Q2. Where and When do we train?
In the Winter months we train at a number of different venues in Stevenage such as the
Round Diamond facility or the Stevenage Academy, this can be different for each team
depending on availability. The younger one's will generally train earlier in the evening,
typically between 5:00 and 7:30 for around one hour. In the warmer months we will train
outside, normally Shephalbury Park or St. Nick's playing fields in Stevenage, depending
on availability.
Q3. Where and When do we play our matches?
Our teams are registered in the Royston Crow league. Away matches are generally within a
radius of 15 miles from Stevenage with our home fixtures played at Knebworth Cricket club.
The younger teams play on Saturday, the older teams on Sunday - again this can change
Q4. How much does it cost?
Subs are £90 per year (2007/8). - This includes the league registration costs.
Q5. Do we have a child protection policy?
Yes. Please see our Constitution available on the website
Q6. Do we have a Child Welfare Officer?
Yes. Ron Webster is currently our designated Child Welfare Officer.
Q7. Do we have an anti-bullying policy?
Yes. The club has a zero tolerance policy to any form of bullying. We expect both our
players and parents to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and sportsmanship.
Q8. Where do our coaches come from?
Our coaches are from all walks. Many are parents of players or volunteers who simply want
to give something back to the game. All coaches will be CRB checked and our aim is for
every team to have at least one coach qualified to FA level 1 standard.
Q9. What checks are done on our coaches?
All coaches and volunteers will be required to submit to a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB)
check to ensure it is appropriate for them to be working with children and young adults.
Q10. What qualifications do our coaches have?
Nearly all of our coaches are qualified to FA Level 1 standard. Each team will have at
least one coach that is qualified to this standard. We also have other coaches under going
training for higher-level qualifications.
Q11. Do we have a code of conduct?
Yes. Please see our Constitution.
Q12. What First Aid arrangements are in place?
All teams should have at least one qualified first aider on hand and a first aid kit has
been purchased by the club for each team.
Q13. What other safety procedures are in place?
Appropriate ball sizes are used for each age group and goal posts are always checked to
ensure they are safe and suitably secured. Risk Assessments are carried out at the start
of each session or match.
Q14. How much involvement is there for parents?
We're always looking for parents and volunteers to get involved with the club, whether
this be as a coach, fund raiser, or any other help that you can provide. If you are
interested then please contact our Chairman.
Q15. Does the club meet on a regular basis?
We hold regular monthly meetings for the management team
Q16. What are the team selection procedures?
This will vary from team to team. In the younger age groups we focus on developing skills
and always ensure that all players get involved in equal amounts and ensure that they are
playing against suitable opposition ( losing or even winning 20-0 is not good for morale
& development !!). In the older age groups the selection policy will vary from team to
team, in general we look to ensure that all players are involved.
Q17. What should I do if I'm interested in playing?
If you'd like to come and join us, then ask your parent or guardian to contact one of the
club management team listed on the website 'contacts' page.
Q18. How do I get involved with the club as a volunteer or coach?
We're always looking for new people to get involved! There are whole numbers of ways you
can help! We also have a fund raising committee that is made up of parent representatives
from each team. Please go to the 'contact us' page for details of the right people to
contact
Q19. As a parent what can I do to help my child?
The club recommends that every parent undertake the FA's Soccer Parent course. This is
available as an online course or as an interactive FA run workshop, that helps parents
understand their role and responsibilities as well as providing a background to how you
can help your child develop their football skills. We also pride ourselves on ensuring
that the Parents and not just the club volunteers maintain the highest possible standards
of behaviour.
Q20. How can I find out more?
Please refer to our website 'contacts' page for details of the club committee and their
contact details. Alternatively, take a look at our Teams pages where you can find out about
each age group.
Q21. I'd like to sponsor a team?
We are always grateful for any funding contribution that can be brought to the club. Please
contact our Chairman or Secretary or Manager to find out how you can help.
Q22. As a parent what should I do if I'm not happy with the coaching?
The club has full procedures and policies for airing any concerns or queries. Our website
contains links to our Constitution where these procedures are outlined in detail. A paper
copy can be requested of you do not have access to the internet.