All affiliate members are required to obtain the Standard Mark. To obtain a Standard status, members must meet specific criteria related to management, safeguarding, and player development. This includes having qualified coaches, adhering to codes of conduct, implementing safeguarding policies, and being affiliated with a State FA. The process generally involves an application, an assessment by the National Executive Board, Technical & Games Development Committee, and ongoing maintenance of standards.
All affiliate Members have one year to achieve the Standard Mark. The League has the right to refuse membership to an applicant if it fails to demonstrate the capacity to meet the requirements. Download Standard Mark Guidelines (link)
Accreditation Process
0
Accreditation – Certification requirements/process
NYFDL Standard Mark Guidelines
Affiliation and Application:
• Affiliate Members must be affiliated with a State FA and have at least one team playing in the NYFDL sanctioned competition.
• They need to complete an application form, providing details about the school, club or academy, its structure, and key personnel.
• Contacting the League management Board is crucial, as they will guide the applicant through the application and assessment process.
Criteria and Standards:
• Qualified Coaches:
Each team must have at least one coach qualified to CAF D or equivalent.
• Safeguarding:
Each Member must have a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and implement safeguarding policies, including police checks and safeguarding training for all relevant staff and volunteers.
• Respect:
Adherence to NYFDL’s codes of conduct is mandatory, ensuring a positive and safe environment for all.
• Development Plan:
Members are required to have a development plan, which may include templates provided by the NYFDL, is often required.
• Policies:
Members need to establish and maintain operational policies, including those related toplayer development, governance, management, health & safety, safeguarding etc
• Website:
Having a website is often a requirement or recommendation, and it should be kept up to date with league information.
Assessment and Accreditation:
• The County FA will assess the league’s application and review its adherence to the required standards.
• The assessment may involve an on-site visit to verify the league’s practices and procedures.
• Leagues will be awarded accreditation (e.g., 1-Star, 2-Star, 3-Star) based on the level of compliance.
Ongoing Maintenance:
• Standard Mark Members must maintain their status and undergo renewal processes annually.
• This may involve updating information, ensuring continued compliance with safeguarding and coaching requirements, and submitting renewal applications.
Benefits of Accreditation:
• Standard Mark accreditation demonstrates a well-run and high-quality member, recognised by the NYFDL.
• Accredited leagues may be eligible for benefits like access to funding, kit and equipment offers, and increased visibility within the football community