Behaviour on the field is improving in the county but the Cumberland FA acknowledge that standards have to be maintained.
In a look back at the 2024/25 season, progress in discipline has been made with improved figures.
Referees dealt with 34 cases of dissent compared to 47 the previous season.
There were 204 players sent to the sin bin, where that was in use, which was down from 239 in 2023/24.
There were 66 cases of dismissals for violent conduct, compared to 73 while red cards for insulting or abusive behaviour was down from 54 to 49.
The county said that positive trends in disciplinary data may be attributed in part to targeted behaviour initiatives led by Cumberland FA and supported by the various leagues.
These include:
- Campaigns: Reinforcing the importance of mutual respect among players, coaches, referees, and spectators.
- Use of sin bins or temporary dismissals helping reduce repeat offenses.
- Coach and parent engagement: Respect Festival Workshops delivered to all three youth leagues and a targeted U12 Session (CGLYFL only) aimed at educating adults on their role and influence over young players’ development.
- Silent Weekend: A national initiative that was supported by all of the county’s youth leagues with the aim of creating positive and pressure free environments for young players by encouraging silence from the sidelines during matches over a selected weekend. The weekend can also sometimes highlight poor sideline behaviour or make some spectators reflect on their own in ways that the traditional
- Behaviour Improvement Programme: Teams identified through the penalty points system or club marks (full time) were asked to host an action planning meeting that looked at a collaborative approach to support the club/team in making a change.
- Cumberland FA Behaviour Ladder (youth football): This structured framework provides a clear escalation pathway for dealing with poor behaviour. It helps clubs and leagues respond proportionately and consistently, ensuring that repeat offenders face appropriate consequences while also offering opportunities for education and reflection.
- Traffic light scheme (adult football): Categorises clubs based FA Disciplinary points, amassed and directly linked to a team’s conduct throughout the season. The scheme encourages accountability and fosters a culture of self-regulation.
- Matchday observer visit: Trained observers attended over 50 fixtures throughout the season to assess behaviour from players, coaches, and spectators. These visits have proven effective in deterring poor conduct and reinforcing positive matchday environments.
Cumberland FA’s chief executive and lead officer around positive football, Ben Snowdon, said: “The data is obviously encouraging, and I would like to thank all of the leagues, club’s and teams for actively embracing the concept of protecting the game through creating a positive environment for all.
“By celebrating what is good about the game in Cumberland we can balance the negative narrative that often consumes grassroots football.
“However, saying that, whilst the numbers suggest progress, it’s important to remember that whilst statistics are a valuable tool, they must be paired with lived experiences to form a complete picture.
“So, while the data shows a clear trend toward improved discipline, whether this is the perception of those involved in the game and the rise in group misconduct are certainly areas that we must continue to address.
“The county will therefore continue to invest in education, observation, and accountability, to hopefully continue to set a national example in behaviour.”
