Lincolnshire FA has reported a rise in both adult and youth football misconduct cases as of February 1st, mirroring a broader national trend. While disciplinary issues have increased across all levels of the game, the adult sector has experienced a sharper rise compared to the same period last season.

A notable surge has been observed in personal hearing requests related to youth football, with 122 cases recorded so far this season - an increase from 92 at this point last year.

This rise is partially attributed to a reduction in cases being "No Further Actioned" (NFA’d) in youth football. Conversely, the adult game has seen more cases NFA’d this season compared to last.

Key Data Points:

• Total misconduct cases scheduled for hearings this season: 250 (up from 208 last year).

• Misconduct reports in Lincolnshire-based leagues: Decreased from 139 to 99.

• Misconduct reports involving Lincolnshire teams in non-Lincolnshire leagues: Increased from 48 to 76.

• Most common misconduct type: Individual player behaviour.

• Aggravated charges: 15 cases related to abuse based on sexual orientation, 12 cases involving threats to match officials.

Fixture abandonments continue to be more prevalent in youth football. However, this may be seen as a positive development linked to the introduction of new Positive Matchday expectations aimed at safeguarding matchday experiences and improving conduct.

Ben Pearce, Head of Football Operations & Safeguarding, commented:

"The overall number of misconduct reports and subsequent cases so far this season remains a concern for us as a County FA. Although our trends reflect the national trend, we do not want to see larger-scale issues with discipline and behaviour in our game.

We have made a significant effort this season to communicate more and be more transparent with clubs regarding their discipline data and trends as the season progresses. We are also delighted with the progress of our Positive Matchday Environment initiative in Lincolnshire Youth Football Leagues. Although we are only in Year 1 of this four-year project, we have already seen a positive impact in improving misconduct trends for Lincolnshire youth teams playing in Lincolnshire youth leagues."

The Lincolnshire FA remains committed to fostering a positive footballing environment and will continue to monitor trends, implement initiatives, and work closely with clubs to address disciplinary concerns.

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