A request by the Scottish FA for an exemption of travel restrictions for youth footballers has been rejected.
The Association has been in dialogue with Scottish Government and sportscotland to seek clarification on the implications of the heightened restrictions announced by the First Minister on 8 October and to articulate concerns raised by the grassroots football community.
Having communicated the government advice via the Affiliated National Associations, including the Scottish Youth, Schools and Amateur FAs, The SFA have received considerable communication from parents and coaches on the unintended consequences on travelling restrictions outwith high risk local health board areas which prevent some young players from being able to participate in training and matches.
The SFA have conveyed to the Scottish Government and sportscotland the impact within these affected areas and requested an exemption on these travel restrictions for youth footballers.
They responded to reiterate that the current travel restrictions must remain in place and that no exemptions can be allowed.
A statement issued on the SFA website reads: “The health and safety of all who participate in Scottish football is of the utmost priority to the Scottish FA.
“While we recognise that the restrictions have a negative impact on some of our players, it is imperative that we all follow the latest government advice in order to reduce the impact of the ongoing pandemic.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
