An exploration of participant behaviour within English grassroots matchday football

This study explored behaviours during youth English grassroots football matchdays. A total of 250 participants completed an online qualitative survey. Participants were coaches, players, referees and spectators who provided examples of, and reasons for, positive and negative behaviours. Thematic analysis revealed seven overarching themes for examples of positive behaviour and eight themes for negative behaviour. The reasons for behaviour generated four themes for positive and nine themes for negative. Negative behaviours existed when the matchday environment consisted of a win-at-all-costs approach. Key elements to create a positive environment to enhance player and game development included supporting the whole game rather than single players or teams, avoiding conflict, the setting of well-communicated expectations and a focus on long-term athlete development. Supportive and encouraging communication was perceived to be more effective than critical communication. This paper offers organizations, practitioners and stakeholders guidance to develop positive behaviours within English grassroots football.