The FA National Silent Support Weekend will be returning once again over the weekend of 15-16 March 2025, to promote good behaviour on touchlines across grassroots youth football.

The return of the Silent Support Weekend gives another opportunity for the players to do the talking in junior grassroots football - running games with the coaches voice only - with parents and supporters showing their support from the sidelines through applause only.

The aim of the National Silent Support Weekend is to reduce pressure on youth players at grassroots level and give them a better opportunity and environment to find their own voice, improve their on-pitch communications skills, develop their own game, and most importantly have fun.

Across the National Silent Support Weekend, spectators are encouraged to show their support by applauding good play from both teams, but refraining from talking or shouting, with coaches supporting the players as they need to. This is to create an enjoyable, safe and developmental experience for all youth players, so that they can play the game with freedom, without pressure, and without an over-emphasis on winning at all costs.

Less outside influence gives players more independence and the chance to practice key skills without instruction. It allows the players to identify areas for development and explore new tactics on the pitch, which all supports their own development of critical thinking and their playing journey.

We encourage all supporters to join us in backing the campaign and play your part on Silent Support Weekend.