Non-League and grassroots football can continue

It's game on for the likes of Corby Town in the Emirates FA Cup preliminary round this weekend

Non-League football at Steps 3 and below can continue, despite the latest measures being imposed by the UK Government in response to Covid-19.

Organised sports, which include Steps 3 to 6 in the National League System (NLS), Tiers 3 to 6 of the Women’s Football Pyramid (WFP) and outdoor grassroots football are able to continue as an exemption to the measures planned from Monday.

It means Corby Town will be able to get their season started this weekend when they head to Mildenhall Town in the preliminary round of the Emirates FA Cup while the United Counties League campaign can carry on.

In their latest statement, the Football Association said: “Organised football activity is currently permitted at these levels but it is extremely important that clubs, players, coaches, match officials, league officials, volunteers, parents, carers, and facility providers continue to strictly follow both the UK Government’s latest guidance on Covid-19 and respective bespoke guidelines from the FA.

“Re-starting the game at these levels has been a significant challenge for everyone involved and we must acknowledge the hard work, passion and commitment of the football family.

“However, it is vital that we all adhere to these guidelines and ensure it can continue in a safe and secure way.

“As part of this exemption, the FA can also clarify that clubs at Steps 3-6 of the NLS and Tiers 3-4 of the WFP remain permitted to accommodate a phased and limited return of spectators if they follow the UK Government’s latest guidance on Covid-19 and the FA’s guidelines for the NLS or WFP.

“Clubs in the Regional NLS Feeder Leagues, Tiers 5-7 of the WFP and outdoor grassroots football also remain permitted to accommodate socially-distanced spectators but they too must adhere to the UK Government’s latest guidance on Covid-19 and the FA guidelines for outdoor grassroots football.

“Supporters are the life force of our national sport and the FA hopes to see them return in greater numbers across the country as soon as it is safe and possible.

“However, we must continue to work together and play our part by following all the relevant guidelines if this is to become a reality.

“The FA remains in consultation with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, leagues and competitions and will provide an update on the further returns of supporters – including scheduled pilot events – in due course.”