The management of a game is down to the match officials. Foul play is dealt with through the laws of the game, in game sanctions (sin bin, yellow card, red card) and further misconduct reports.
If a coach genuinely believes that the children playing in the game are at risk of serious harm, due to the behaviour of the opposition, then in the first instance they should speak calmly with the referee to express their concern. A calm and adult conversation should also be had with the coach/manager of the opposition.
If, despite these interventions, the coach believes that a risk of serious harm is still present, then they have a decision to make about whether they need to take action to remove those children from that risk. Any adult present has a duty of care towards the children.
A team playing aggressively and committing some fouls, do not present a serious risk of harm and this is not a safeguarding issue. There will be physicality in the game and fouls and injuries can occur.
Coaches should know that the only person who can lawfully abandon a game is the referee, and therefore if they take their players from the field they will be charged with misconduct. The reasons for doing so will be mitigation and the disciplinary panel will take all evidence into account when deciding on appropriate sanctions.
The fact remains that an adult with responsibility for children has a duty of care to them that means taking whatever action necessary to remove them from serious harm or a threat of serious harm.
More Information
If you need any further support on this topic, please contact us via the Support Hub.
For more information about Safeguarding, please visit www.Berks-BucksFA.com. Alternatively, find us on socials @berksandbucksfa for the latest news and updates.
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