YEL Update – 3rd April 2026

YEL Update – 3rd April

 

A big thank you to all our referees who have put their hands up over recent weeks, we know it’s not easy at this time of year with midweek fixtures, weekend games and holidays all in the mix, and your support really does make a difference.

We’re sorry we haven’t been able to allocate everyone a game, due to reduced fixtures but please know we are doing everything we can to maximise coverage across all fixtures.

🔄 2026/27 Season Preparations

Preparations are already well underway for next season, and this is a really good time for clubs to start getting things organised in the background so everything runs smoothly heading into the new season. We wanted to share some helpful tips on what to think about:

  • We’d encourage clubs to take a bit of time now to check that accreditation is up to date and that your FA Club Portal reflects your current squads, especially removing any leavers. These small updates now can save a lot of time later on.
  • Player photographs will be unlocked from 1st June, as all players are free agents awaiting re-registration. Please be aware that photos can be updated by parents or clubs at this time. As standard we will be requesting new photos for U7, U10 and U13 age groups. It’s useful for teams to have photos ready for all players, just in case any are rejected. We all know how difficult it can be once holidays begin. Just a reminder to follow the usual guidance with clear, passport-style photos – with a smile😊.
  • For any players currently playing under dispensation, just a reminder this will need to be redone and approved again ahead of the new season.
  • We’d also ask that clubs ensure any outstanding finances are settled as we move towards the new season, helping everything run as smoothly as possible for everyone involved.

⚽ 3v3 Football – U7

We’re really pleased to be supporting the FA Future Fit programme with the introduction of weekly 3v3  football for Under 7s from September 2026.
This format is all about giving players more, more game-time, more opportunities to score, more opportunities to stop goals, more passes! This will create the right environment for development and enjoyment.
Each team will be entered into the league and will have 6-9 (approx.) registered players. Teams will be grouped into divisions and fixtures will be scheduled on a home and away format, as ever YEL will review groupings to give teams the right level of football.

🤝 Club Engagement

It was great to meet with a number of YEL clubs on Monday evening, thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. Your input is really valued and helps shape the direction of the league.

The proposed rule changes have now been shared with all Club Secretaries. Following the Easter break we will also be looking at how we can help improve communication and keep everyone connected.

📞 League Phoneline

YEL Matchday Hotline: 07510 305354
(For urgent matchday safeguarding or Respect concerns only)Please note the YEL phoneline opening hours are 9am – 12 noon on match days.

As always, thank you for everything you do to support your teams, your players and the league. We know how much goes on behind the scenes, and it really is appreciated.

Have a lovely Easter 🐣

#YEL #GrassrootsFootball #Respect

Thanks

YEL Board

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