SILENT Support Weekend is returning to Essex grassroots football for 2025/26 – the second of which is scheduled for Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March 2026 – and the Essex County FA and England Football are hoping they continue to prove popular locally.

Everyone on the touchline is invited to “dial down the noise and dial up the respect,” and leagues in Essex have previously run their own Silent Support Weekends. The nationwide campaign encourages a calmer, more positive matchday atmosphere across youth football by asking spectators to offer applause only, allowing young players to take greater ownership of their game.

Too often, there are too many voices from the touchline, too many opinions, and too much unnecessary distraction. By reducing verbal instructions, players (and young referees) are given space to make decisions, problem-solve and communicate more effectively with their teams. Coaches are encouraged to let them play, to support leadership and to reinforce learning.

Spectators also play a key role. Parents and supporters are asked to applaud good play, stay silent during open play and avoid offering tactical instructions from the sidelines. The goal is to create a pressure-free environment where all players feel supported equally. All spectators have to do is not talk, but they can still applaud good play from both teams.

Feedback from previous Silent Support events has been overwhelmingly positive, with young participants reporting increased confidence and independence on the pitch. Many say the quieter environment helps them to think for themselves and enjoy the game more. The Essex County FA hope clubs across the county will embrace the weekend and continue promoting respect, development and positive experiences for every young player.

Maldon & Tiptree, Perry Street, Sporting 77 and Great Danes were amongst the clubs who joined the Essex County FA and England Football to highlight the first Silent Support Weekend of 2025/26, which took place on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November 2025.

Find out more about the Silent Support Weekends at www.essexfa.com, and you can also interact with the Essex County FA on social media.