Sin bins are in!
Temporary dismissals, also known as sin bins, will be introduced across all levels of grassroots football from the start of the 2019-20 season. Find out more below on how it might impact you and even experiment with our interactive video explaining how it will work in a typical grassroots game...
So, what exactly is happening?
Sin bins of ten minutes will be issued at the discretion of referees as punishment for dissent, and will apply to all levels of grassroots football, including youth, veterans and disability.
25 of 31 trial leagues showed an overall reduction in dissent
A 38% total reduction in dissent across all leagues
72% of players, 77% of managers/coaches, and 84% of referees wanted to continue after the trial
The FA piloted sin bins across 31 leagues during the last two seasons as part of their commitment to improve the match day experience for all and the new rule change will be used up to Step 5 of the National League System and Tier 5 and below in women's football.
And after positive feedback from players, referees and coaches, we’ll now roll out sin bins in a bid to increase participation and to continue improving match day experiences for all.
How will it work?
Sin bins will be indicated by the referee showing a yellow card and clearly pointing with both arms to the side lines. This will result in a ten-minute dismissal from the pitch during which time the player is not allowed to be substituted or involved in the game in any way.
Unlike cautions, which will continue to be issued for unsporting behaviour and foul play, players will not be required to pay the £10 administration fee for temporary dismissals.
A second temporary dismissal in a match will result in the offending player being dismissed for a further ten minutes, after which they may not re-join the match, but may then be substituted if the team has substitutions remaining.
