How do I become a qualified coach?
It is recommended that all new potential coaches should complete the FA Club Coach Award (FA Level 1.) The course is 28 hours and includes elements of practical and theory work. All candidates will also complete a FA Child Protection workshop and an FA Emergency Aid qualification. For more information please Click here or contact a member of the Football Development team - 3 Qualifications for the price of one.
What is FACA?
FACA is the FA Coaches Association. The objective of FACA is "To affect positively the attitudes, ethics, knowledge and performance of football coaches."
Benefits include:
FACA Membership card (on completion of a successful FA CRB check) Subscription to the Official half yearly journal of FACA "Insight." Access to the official on-line coaching resource. £5 million Civil Liability Insurance Protection. Personal Accident insurance protection. Exclusive Education & Training Opportunities Coaching Merchandise FACA Resource Catalogue FA CRB Enhanced Disclosure.
What is a CRB Check?
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) provides wider access to criminal record information through its Disclosure service. It enables organisations to make safer recruitment decision by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially that involving children or vulnerable adults.
All levels of football will benefit from the checks being carried out by The FA Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Unit on people with access to children in football.
For more information on CRB checks please contact the County Secretary
How do I set up a team/club?
Wiltshire FA have produced some guidelines for organisations wishing to set up a new club/age group. Please contact us for details.
How do I find my local club?
Wiltshire FA have a "Find a Club" Section under the "Get involved" section of this website. The search will help you to identify a team in your locality by postcode, distance from a particular area, team name, gender and/or age group. You can also search for clubs accredited with FA Charter Standard.
I have a qualification, where can I get coaching experience?
The Wiltshire FA Ltd has limited direct coaching opportunities. The Wiltshire FA works closely with other organisations in the delivery of football at a local level.
What is Mini Soccer?
In 1999 Mini-soccer was implemented as the form of football for Children Under 10 years of age. Girls and boys are introduced to the game on smaller pitches, smaller goals and fewer players. The aim is to provide a quality experience for all players at all levels. The Football Association deem Mini-soccer as the most appropriate and fun introduction to football. It allows greater involvement in the game, with more touches on the ball, dribbles and passes.
What is Futsal?
Futsal is the FIFA/UEFA recognised form of small-sided football. Many Countries that we admire for the technical skills of their players use Futsal as an aspect of Youth Development. Ball retention, quick and skillful play and tactical awareness are all promoted in Futsal.
Futsal is played on a pitch marked with sidelines. The ball (size 4) is a low bounce, slightly heavy ball.
How much football should my child be playing?
In any one day, no player should play more than the stipulated period below:
Age Group
Minimum duration of participation per day per player.
Maximum duration of participation per day per player
Over 6 & Under 8s
10 Minutes
45 Minutes
Over 8 & Under 10s
15 Minutes
60 Minutes
Source: Mini-soccer Handbook
What size pitch/ball should I be playing with?
The size of football to be used shall be:
Size 3 is recommended for Under 8's The ball should be no larger than size 4 for mini-soccer (up to U10's) Size 4 for those playing U11-U14 age groups Size 5 for those playing in 14+ age groups.
What age group should I be playing in?
The FA operate a strict 2 year age band in Youth football. The oldest player on the pitch must not be more than 2 years older than the youngest player on the pitch.
To identify the qualifying dates of birth for your age group, please consult the Wiltshire FA/league handbook.
What is Charter Standard?
The FA Charter Standard is the Football Association's Kite mark of quality. Accreditation is available for all clubs, schools, colleges and holiday courses.
Please contact the Football Development team if you are interested in the FA Charter Standard Scheme.