The biggest win for a youth football coach is fostering a love of the game in their players. That is one very important reason why creating a positive matchday environment has to be a goal at all levels of youth football.

In this Expert Panel, we explore what constitutes a positive matchday environment, why it is so important, and what can be done to achieve it. We are delighted to have two leading practitioners sharing their knowledge and experience with us.

Grassroots coach education manager with the Football Association of Wales, Andy Lewis, gives a presentation on supporting players, coaches, officials and parents in creating a positive matchday environment. Next, Ben Pearce – head of safeguarding and football operations with the Lincolnshire FA – details the work this county association has done with their Positive Matchday Environment Initiative, and the learnings that have come from it. The panel then answers a range of questions on creating a positive matchday environment, including those put forward by our CV Academy subscribers.

It is a thoroughly engaging session with plenty of practical tips and takeaways for coaches in the youth game. We hope it helps you with creating your own positive matchday environment.