FAQs

What do we expect from the squads?

We encourage players to develop as rounded individuals through their association with district football. The players are expected to show a willingness to improve their skills, adaptability, commitment, loyalty and punctuality alongside good conduct and sportsmanship on and off the field.

Most players will experience playing in more than one position over the season, their district position may be different from their school or club position. Except in the case of injury and availability players can expect 50% or more of the available playing time over a season.

Players may be involved in the decision making process as they grow in confidence. The choices they make during games may be correct, incorrect or lacking in execution but by having the confidence to make a decision is one way they improve.

We request that you do not coach from the touch line.

Where do we play our matches?

Home fixtures are played at LA Sports Club, St Dunstans Lane, Beckenham BR3 3SS. Access to the site is by a narrow lane and parking can be limited. Please support the development of the site by using the refreshment facilities.

In the event of a medical emergency the nearest 24hr hospital is PRU Hospital, Farnborough Common, Orpington BR6 8ND.

What does the player need to wear to games?

Squad players are expected to arrive for matches 30 minutes before the kick off. Due to current restrictions players are expected to arrive changed at fixtures with a labelled water bottle and hand sanitizer.

ALL playing kit is provided, PLEASE DO NOT name the shirt, shorts etc. or kit bags as they will be used for more than one season. Every player will have a squad number the ‘owner’ of these items can be identified by the squad number. A charge may be made in the event of lost equipment.

What boots are needed?

If you have both studs and blades / moulds then both. There are a few fixtures on Astro turf, these will always be moulded / blades / astroturf trainers.

Why is my child playing in a different position than he plays for his club/ school?

The squads are selected for balance and strength in all positions. As talented young players we expect hem to be versatile and welcome the experience of playing in a variety of positions as part of their football development.

Do I need to confirm my child’s availability for the coming fixture?

Being selected for a district squad means that we will expect the players to be available for the upcoming fixtures. We need to know in advance if they CANNOT play.

When do the District play their matches?

We play almost exclusively on Saturdays. On rare occasions we may play during the half term. Also we fulfil fixtures in Jersey and Gloucester every season.

Is there training?

We may run some initial sessions to enable the squad to get to know each other, but there won't be ongoing training through the season.

In previous years, we did run training sessions every week. These were often poorly attended, at considerable cost to District finances. It is for this reason we have decided to end training.

What are the Match / joining fees

In previous years we have managed to finance the District via our fundraising activities. This has become increasingly difficult to sustain. Sadly, for the first time we ask the parents to contribute a joining fee of £200 (boys) / £125 (girls). This will allow us to continue to pay for training, and cover all match day costs.

How can we help on match days?

There are many home match day tasks for which help is requested including moving the goals into position before/after the game acting as the linesman and assist in keeping parents/carers socially distanced.

It goes without saying that we rely on parents/carers to transport their son to fixtures and remain socially distanced where possible.

Photographs

The district is committed to the safety, care and protection of young the players who represent it. Any photographs or other images taken by O&BPSFA, Kent Schools FA officials will be used solely for the promotion or celebration of district or county activities.

ESAphotos (licensed by the Football League and others) may attend games and take photos available for purchase, O&BPSFA players are not identified by name. Please let us know, if confidence, if your child’s image should not be used in a public domain such as our web site www.obpsfa.com or www.ksfa.org.uk.