Preparations for Season 2020-21
AGMs
At last week’s Board meeting the subject of the County AGM was discussed. The County AGM was scheduled for Thursday 5th June; the Board feel that given current circumstances this date was not practical and have therefore decided to postpone the meeting. They have not yet set a rearranged a date although it will be later in the summer or even towards the start of the proposed date of the new season.
One of the reasons for decision is that all league and club AGM should be held before the county AGM; given the uncertainty this would allow clubs and leagues more time. You should still have an AGM, and now you have that time if you wish. However, if you want to go ahead and meet now, this can be done online. Your league/club may have online way of holding one, however we are able to “host” a meeting for you using our Microsoft teams software; if you would like to find out how we can help then please contact Jennifer Gregory. We also have advice on how you can host an online AGM.
League Seasons
As you are probably aware, The FA have cancelled the season and declared them null and void for all leagues from Step 3-7 in the men’s and women’s pyramid. Outside the National League season, "grassroots" in everyday speak, the season has likewise been cancelled but leagues do have the option to award championships, promote and relegate by using a points per match formula. Last week the FA council voted to confirm that decision.
We held an online meeting with our leagues to discuss this last Monday week to discuss their end of season options. Our feeling is that leagues know their clubs best and while we are happy to help in any way we can we will support the decision you make for the good of your competition.
Safeguarding
During the current lockdown period The FA have issued guidance for clubs and leagues seeking to get members DBS checked.
Safeguarding concerns should be emailed to: safeguarding@somersetfa.com. In urgent (but non-emergency) cases you may contact Jon Pike on: 07946 182 658.
In the case of an emergency, contact the Police on: 999
Discipline
A number of clubs have asked, given that the season has been cancelled, would discipline earned during the season be likewise cancelled. The answer to this is no. the FA have decided, for all county FA that all cautions, send off and misconducts accrued during the season will stand along with fines and suspensions, therefore any suspensions not yet competed will carry over until next year. Hearings, will be held over until restrictions are lifted if a personal hearing is requested. If you have any questions on discipline, please contact Jennifer Gregory.
This is a national decision made by the FA and will cover all County FAs.
Affiliation, Cups and Essentials for next season
Read about our round of financial support for clubs, our 'ACE of Hearts' ahead of next season here.
Anything Else...
We are operating with a core of staff with some colleagues placed on furlough leave, and intend to give you the same level of service as before the current crisis. Please continue to contact those members of staff who remain working remotely with anything we can assist you with at this time.