Information for Coaches & Club Staff
Club Administration Summary Information
This section provides links to everything you need if you have a role within the club.
Pre-Season Administration
All coaches must complete the FA course - Introduction to Coaching Football and have up to date certificates for both Safeguarding Children and Introduction to First Aid in Football.
All required courses are funded by the club - submit an expense form after the course is taken.
Club Registration
If you are a new coach to the club please contact the Welfare Officer to begin registration
Obtain a FAN
All coaches must register with the FA and have an FA Number (FAN)
DBS Process
All coaches must have a valid DBS to be allowed to coach children alone
Safeguarding Registration
All new coaches must have a valid safeguarding certificate
Respect Code
Play your part by following the FA's Respect Code at all times
FA First Aid Course
If you are new to the club please register your information here
Intro To Coaching Football
All coaches must complete this club funded foundational coaching course
Renew Safeguarding
Use this link to renew an expiring or expired safeguarding certificate
Training & Match Day
To prepare for training sessions and ensure you are well organised on match day, please follow some of the supporting links below and if in doubt ask a fellow coach or one of the Saddleworth FC committee members.
Match Day Checklist
Make sure you are fully prepared for success (and emergencies) on match days
Download Team Sheets
Download your current team sheet in Whole Game System (WGS) to show on match day
Submit Incident Reports
Submit match day incidents such as abuse or disciplinary to our welfare officer
Behaviour & Discipline
Understand how the league monitors behaviour from club members and associates
Respect Code for Coaches
At Saddleworth FC, we hold our coaches to the highest standards of conduct both on and off the field. Adhering to The FA's Code of Respect, our coaches play a crucial role in fostering a positive, respectful, and enjoyable environment for our young players. By following these guidelines, coaches set the example for players, parents, and spectators, ensuring that everyone involved in the game can thrive in a supportive and respectful atmosphere.
On and off the field, I will:
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Always show respect to everyone involved in the game
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Stick to the rules and celebrate the spirit of the game
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Encourage fair play and high standards of behaviour
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Always respect the Referee and encourage players to do the same
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Never enter the field of play without the Referee’s permission
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Never engage in, or tolerate offensive, insulting or abusive behaviour
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Be aware of the potential impact of bad language on others
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Be gracious in victory and defeat
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Respect the facilities home and away
When working with players, I will:
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Place the well-being, safety and enjoyment of each player above everything
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Never tolerate any form of bullying
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Ensure all activities are suited for the players’ ability and age
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Work with others (e.g. officials, doctors, welfare officers, physiotherapists) for each player’s best interests
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Make myself familiar with safeguarding practices & review guidance on physical contact (5.6) & Acceptable Behaviours When Working With Young People (5.7) documents on the safeguarding section of EnglandFootball.com
​I understand that if I do not follow the Code, I may be:
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Required to meet with the club committee, league or CFA Welfare Officer
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Suspended by the club from attending matches
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Suspended or fined by the County FA
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Required to leave, lose my position and/or have my license withdrawn
DBS Process
Anyone aged 16 or over who undertakes any unsupervised roles with children under the age of 18 must have a valid DBS check before fulfilling their role. You will require identification documents before completing the application.
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To complete the form you need to input:
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Full name (including middle name)
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Date of Birth
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Place of Birth and Nationality
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Addresses stayed at over the last 5 years – address and postcode including current address
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What documents you want to use for verification – see link below for valid documents.
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Passport number
It is a criminal offence to enter incorrect data.
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If you don't already have it, obtain our organisation pin from the Child Welfare Officer
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If you have registered for a DBS in the past sign in on the online registration system
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Complete your details
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Tick to be kept updated by email
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After submission, send copies of verification docs you have agreed for verification to Child Welfare Officer.
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It will take between 2-4 weeks to receive a confirmation by post.
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When received, send a copy of the confirmation document to the Child Welfare Officer.
Match Day Checklist​
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By following these condensed points, coaches can ensure a smooth, organised, and positive match day experience.
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Player Registration and Kit
Ensure all players are registered, eligible, and have the correct kit (jersey, shorts, socks, shin guards, boots). Carry spare kit items for emergencies.
First Aid Preparedness
Confirm the first aid kit is fully stocked and ready, including ice packs and water bottles.
Pre-Match Communication
Confirm match details (time, location, meeting point) with players and parents. Review specific instructions or strategies with the team.
Arrival and Pitch Inspection
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to inspect the pitch for hazards and identify designated areas for substitutes, spectators, and coaches.
Pre-Match Routine
Conduct a thorough warm-up, including dynamic stretches and light drills, to prepare players and prevent injuries. Gather the team
for a pre-match talk to reinforce key tactics, positions, and roles, and to foster a positive mindset.
Substitution Management
Plan and manage substitutions to ensure fair playing time and track player positions and rotations.
Positive Sideline Behavior
Provide positive encouragement and constructive feedback. Maintain respectful communication with referees, players, and the opposing team.
Injury and Hydration Management
Respond promptly to injuries with the first aid kit. Ensure players stay hydrated, organising regular hydration breaks during stoppages.
Post-Match Cool Down and Debrief
Lead a cool-down routine and conduct a team debrief to highlight positives and areas for improvement. Encourage player feedback and ensure all equipment is collected.
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