Competition entry process and timelines for 2020/21

Given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we have had to review our normal competition entry processes with our primary concern always being for our members and the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved. With that in mind we can now outline the 2020/21 entry process. Entry forms will be released on Monday 20 April, after which we will host two webinars to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. The ECFA Premier League application process will be released on Monday 6 April. The webinars aim to guide staff through the competition entry process, including the new futsal leagues and entry process, and the revised terms and conditions for 2020/21. You can register for these via the links below. Please note the webinars will be recorded and added to the AoC Sport website for those of you who can’t join on the day. If you have any questions beforehand, please send them to competitions@aoc.co.uk and these will be addressed through the webinar and added to an FAQs document. Competitions are open to colleges, schools, academies and training providers that can demonstrate that they meet the entry criteria.

Timelines

Monday 20 April - Entry form released Thursday 23 April, 2pm - Naqoda entry form webinar 1 and Q&A | Register here Webinar to guide colleges through the entry form process and answer any questions Friday 1 May, 11am - Naqoda entry form webinar 2 and Q&A | Register here Webinar to respond to any questions raised on the entry process and for colleges to raise any further questions Friday 5 June, 5pm - Closing date for entries Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 June - Leagues formulated Wednesday 10 June - Proposed leagues circulated Thursday 18 and Friday 19 - Regional Operation Group meetings for feedback on the league structures devised for 2020/21 * These will be set up by RDOs and invites circulated Friday 3 July - All fixtures produced * Due to the current social distancing measures, we will not be holding traditional Regional Operations Group meetings in the summer term, but we will be hosting league feedback meetings in each region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What if we are unsure on what our entries will be next year? A. The entry form will be used as an intent to enter, as opposed to a committed entry. You will be able to withdraw entries up until leagues commence and not be invoiced. Q. How will the entry forms differ this year? A. Our new futsal offer is included in this year's entry form, along with revised terms and conditions. Q. When will the 2020/21 season commence? A. The uncertainty around the COVID-19 situation will be taken into consideration when planning the start of the 2020/21 season, which is likely to begin slightly later than normal. Q. ECFA Premier league applications usually require a video entry, will this be required this year? A. No, this will not be required this year Q. When will invoices be issued? A. Invoices will be issued on the opening day of the season. Q. Will fines still be implemented? A. Yes, fines for withdrawals will still be in places, details of which are included in the terms and conditions on the entry form.