Middlesex FA are pleased to announce that Middlesex Youth Football League as our pilot Respect league.

Middlesex FA are always striving to ensure football is a respectful place, both on and off the pitch. In line with The FA’s recent ‘We Only Do Positive’ campaign and linked Respect initiatives, Middlesex Youth Football League (MYFL) have agreed to be the County’s Respect League pilot for the 2019/20 season to help raise the profile of respect.

The FA’s Respect programme, launched in 2008/09 season, is all about creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment. Starting with a focus on youth football for a bottom up approach research has shown 90% of children play better with positivity. This then leads to the open aged game and spreading respect through every avenue.

The FA have recently launched the ‘Respect for coaches’ E-Learning module which will be a key part of ensuring the beautiful game remains just that. All those who take part, in all the many formats and varied roles, do so for the love of the game. It’s our job to try and make all these experiences positive, and a big element of that is through the Respect Initiatives. The course is FREE and focuses on the following themes:

• Creating the right environment
• Lead by positive example
• Understand your players
• Build a positive team around you
• Instil an ‘anything is possible’ attitude

Middlesex Youth Football League will be leading by example, supporting the county FA in promoting and living by the respect values and encouraging all member clubs and teams to do the same. As a Respect League they will ensure there is a new level of education for coaches, parents and players alike resulting in a big impact in the long term.

The youth league will pave the way for other leagues to follow suit in creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment. If you want to find out more on how your team, club or league can get involved with the respect programme please get in touch with your local Football Development Officer.