Matchday Tasks for Coaches

Matchday Admin & Pitch Responsibilities

Practical guidance for smooth, enjoyable matchdays for everyone involved.

On matchdays, preparation, communication, and collaboration are key to ensuring a positive experience for players, parents, coaches, and referees. Below is a clear breakdown of responsibilities for home and away matches, along with useful checklists and essential reminders.

1. Home Match Responsibilities

Pitch Setup and Preparation

Coaches will be informed if matches need to be cancelled at the earliest possible opportunity by the Fixtures Secretary. For matches on Priory or Convent Fields it will usually be by Friday afternoon, when Directors of Lewes Football Foundation are in communication with Priory School staff and East Sussex County Council for advice.

Very occasionally matches will be cancelled owing to Lewes FC Women needing the 3G.

In the event of concerning weather events on the Saturday or Sunday, a decision about fixtures will be made by the Club Committee who will inform everyone as soon as possible to avoid unecessary travel.

Fixtures usually go ahead, so

  • Arrive Early: Be at the pitch at least 30 minutes before kick-off to allow time for setup.

  • Safety First: Check the pitch for hazards and ensure it’s safe, clean, and suitable for play.

  • Set Up Equipment: Assemble or move goals, secure nets, and position corner flags where needed.

  • Pitch Size: Confirm the pitch dimensions align with FA regulations for the team’s age group.

  • Warm-Up Area: Designate a warm-up zone that won’t interfere with other games or activities.

Team Admin and Communication before a game

  • Player Availability: Confirm availability on Spond in advance to ensure you have enough players.

  • Team Sheet: Record player details as required by the league.

  • Referee Coordination: Unless the Fixtures Secretary has arranged a referee, you must secure a referee as well as two linespeople. Using other coaches or confident parents is usually fine, and traditionally ecah team provides one linesperson. Only FA-registered referees will be paid by the club.

  • Confirm Details: Contact the opposing coach at least 48 hours before kick-off to verify the venue, start time, and pitch details.

During the Match

  • Parent Conduct: Reinforce the club’s Parent-Club Contract, encouraging positive sideline behaviour.

  • First Aid Preparedness: Have a stocked first aid kit ready and know how to handle injuries.

  • Referee Support: Ensure everyone respects the referee’s decisions throughout the match.

Post-Match Duties

  • Clear the Pitch: Pack away equipment, check for litter, and leave the area tidy. This includes bringing flags back to the 3G and locking up all the containers/3G cage/Priory Fields gate if you are the last team to leave the Rookery/Priory Fields site.

  • Express Gratitude: Thank the opposition, referee, and coaches for their efforts.

  • Lost Property: Collect any items left behind and arrange their return.

  • Submit Match Results: Report the match outcome via Full-Time or SMS, including any additional league requirements.

2. Away Match Responsibilities

Pre-Match Communication

  • Confirm Details: Contact the opposing coach at least 48 hours before kick-off to verify the venue, start time, and pitch details.

  • Travel Coordination: Share location and travel instructions with parents using Spond.

On Arrival

  • Be Punctual: Arrive at least 30 minutes before kick-off to review the pitch and prepare the team.

  • Safety Check: Assess the pitch for safety and suitability.

  • Warm-Up Zone: Locate a safe, clear area for players to warm up.

During the Match

  • Respect the Host: Follow all venue rules, including those related to parking and changing room use.

  • Parent Conduct: Encourage parents to support the team respectfully, in line with the Parent-Club Contract.

  • First Aid Preparedness: Have a stocked first aid kit ready and know how to handle injuries.

  • Referee Support: Ensure everyone respects the referee’s decisions throughout the match.

    Post-Match Duties

  • Express Gratitude: Thank the opposition, referee, and coaches for their efforts.

  • Lost Property: Collect any items left behind and arrange their return.

  • Submit Match Results: Report the match outcome via Full-Time or SMS, including any additional league requirements.

3. Match Official Guidelines

  • Payment: Treasurer will liaise with the Fixtures Secretary to pay FA-registered referees in a timely manner.

  • Respect the Referee: Uphold a zero-tolerance policy for verbal or physical abuse toward officials.

4. Match Result Reporting

  • How to Report: Use the league’s system, typically Full-Time or SMS, to log match scores.

  • Timing: Submit results within two hours of the match ending.

  • Details: Include the final score, goal scorers (if applicable), and note any issues such as player conduct.

If you do not learn to report match results, we operate a ‘two strikes and you are out’ policy ie you will be charged the fines that are levied to the club on your third failure to report,

Need Help?

For further assistance with matchday responsibilities, contact your any member of the Club Committee or fellow coaches who will support you.