Luton Town FC are scouring Hatfield for talent

Several grassroots competitions are embarking on a ‘roll-on, roll-off’ substitutions trial from 2012/13 as part of a two-season Football Association pilot which could eventually boost adult 11v11 participation figures.

Earlier in the year, permission was granted by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) for The FA to temporarily modify the laws of the game and allow more flexibility with substitutions in any age group whose matches are solely for amateurs and are not part of their most senior domestic competition.

Boys’ Under 17s and 18s and men’s open-age football are included in certain leagues whose member clubs agreed to take part in the trial.

Particular youth age groups, plus women’s, girls’, disability and veterans’ leagues, have had the option to implement these substitution modifications for some years already. IFAB, in making their decision about this trial, have made it clear that, for the adult trial to progress any further after the two seasons, they want to see evidence that the pilot has a positive impact on retaining and growing the number of players participating in 11v11.

The Essex County FA wrote to each competition and outlined the process to complete should they wish to try the experiment in 2012/13. It was requested that all leagues place the option to their members at their annual general meetings and they had to make it clear that the pilot is for two seasons only, after which the IFAB will review the decision.

Referees and clubs involved in regional league should check with their competition whether they’re involved.