All clubs in Bedfordshire FA must affiliate to Bedfordshire County Football Association. It is through affiliation that the family of football is brought together and ensures correct standards and discipline are maintained. In effect it acts as a quality assurance and as a safety net to help protect players, clubs, officials and administrators throughout the game. The major benefits from affiliation are:
1. Part of the structure of the National Game from grass roots upwards.
2. Eligible to participate in County F.A. Competitions.
3. Discipline and Fair Play.
4. Opportunities to receive advice and support when applying for grant aid and other funding.
5. Access to information and advice from all levels of football
6. Opportunities to acquire suitable Public Liability and Personal Injury Insurance cover for your Club, team and players.
7. County FA publications and annual handbook.
8. Opportunity to participate in FA Football Development Schemes.
9. Your club has the opportunity to make its views known on the future development of the game.
For further information regarding affiliation please contact:
Nicholas Snelson – Football Operations Officer
Email: nicholas.snelson@bedfordshirefa.com or
Telephone: 01582 567712
Fixtures – League & Cup Competitions
Fixtures are administered by the appropriate competition secretary, who advises clubs of forthcoming matches. If it is a home match, the club secretary must arrange hire of a pitch, notify opponents and match officials of kick-off time and location of venue. For away games, arrange to inform your own team of venue, kick-off time and arrange for transport of players. All County Football Associations run cup competitions which give an opportunity for teams to play against clubs from different leagues or divisions.
Pitches – useful contacts & advice
Apply to your Local Authority, other local teams, Parish Council or owner of a private ground to hire a pitch. Please note hire charges will vary.
Kit & Equipment
Purchase suitable equipment prior to the start of your fixtures and ensure you have sufficient equipment for all teams in your club. The necessary equipment will include, playing strip, first aid kit, nets and balls.
Administration
See attached club action timetable which covers tasks in pre-season, tasks prior to day of the game, task on the day of the game, discipline and the club annual general meeting (AGM).
Results / Public Relations / Press
Ensure you pass on results of your matches to comply with competition regulations. All clubs are recommended to establish good relationships with the local press to publish results, match reports and possibly just interesting stories about their club. Good PR will help raise the profile of the club, bring in new players and may even attract some sponsorship.
For any further assistance on Club Development please contact:
James Slack – Football Development Officer
Email: james.slack@bedfordshirefa.com or
Telephone: 01582 567719