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Shooters Youth FC Joins the 'Silent Weekend' Initiative
Let the Kids Play!
To all our fantastic players, parents, and supporters,
This weekend across Shooters Youth FC, we are proudly participating in the Silent Weekend. If you are heading down to the pitches to support our brilliant young teams, you might notice the sidelines are a little quieter than usual, and that’s exactly the plan!
We know how passionate our community is, and we love the fantastic support our teams receive every single week. However, the Silent Weekend is a special initiative designed to put the focus entirely back on the children and their love for the game.
Why Are We Having a Silent Weekend?
Grassroots football is all about learning, developing, and most importantly, having fun. Sometimes, the sidelines can become a bit too loud, and even well-meaning instructions from parents and coaches can become overwhelming for young players.
The reasons behind the Silent Weekend are simple:
To let the players make their own decisions: Without adults telling them when to pass, shoot, or tackle, players are encouraged to think for themselves, read the game, and learn from their own mistakes.
To help them find their own voice: A quieter sideline allows the players to communicate with each other. You'll be amazed at how much the kids talk, organise, and encourage one another when they aren't competing with the noise of the crowd!
To reduce pressure: Taking away the constant shouts of instruction removes the fear of making a mistake, allowing the children to play with freedom, creativity, and a smile on their faces.
What Is Expected of Parents and Spectators?
We are asking all parents, carers, and supporters to fully embrace the spirit of the weekend. Here is what we need from you:
DO applaud good play, great effort, and fair play from both teams. Clapping is highly encouraged!
DO smile, relax, and enjoy watching your child play the game they love.
DON'T shout instructions from the sidelines (e.g., "Pass!", "Shoot!", "Send it!"). Leave the coaching to the coaches.
DON'T question the referee’s decisions. Let the game flow and set a positive example of respect.
We appreciate that standing in silence and biting your tongue when a player is through on goal can be incredibly difficult! But this weekend is a fantastic experiment in seeing how our young players adapt and thrive when the game is truly handed over to them.
Thank you, as always, for your unwavering dedication to the club and for helping us create the best possible environment for youth football.
See you on the sidelines, don't forget to bring your applause!