24th February2021
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/an-fa-update-on-steps-3-6-of-the-national-league-s-65181
Statement from the FA: The 2020/21 Season for Steps 3-6 of the NLS should be curtailed with immediate effect, with no further league matches taking place this season!

The FA have released the following statement on the future of our season
The FA’s Alliance and Leagues Committees have now considered the large amount of data and information submitted by clubs across the National League System (NLS) Steps 3-6 as part of a survey to gather views on the continuation or conclusion of the 2020-21 league season, in addition to the information set out in the Government’s roadmap this week.

Submissions were made by 99.1% of clubs at Steps 3 and 4, and 95.8% of clubs at Steps 5 and 6. We would like to thank the clubs for submitting their views and the time taken in providing responses during what we appreciate is an incredibly challenging period for everyone.

The results of the survey showed that over 76% of all clubs across Steps 3-6 indicated a preference to curtail the 2020-21 league season if it could not be restarted with limited spectator numbers and hospitality before 1 April 2021.

During this process, taking into account views of clubs and leagues it was decided that extending the 2020-21 league season beyond the end of May 2021 would not be a viable option. This was due to various considerations, including the financial implications for many clubs, player contracts and the extent of the fixture scheduling issues caused by the national lockdown and various postponements which had resulted in there being 81% of matches left to complete for Steps 3 and 4, and 75% at Steps 5 and 6.

Taking into account the survey results and the ongoing impact of Covid-19, which continues to adversely affect incomes for clubs due to restrictions on both spectators and hospitality, The FA’s Alliance and Leagues Committees have reached a consensus that subject to the approval of FA Council, the 2020-21 league season for Steps 3-6 of the NLS should be curtailed with immediate effect, with no further league matches taking place this season.
The Committees will now present their collective recommendations to The FA Council for ratification.

It has also been decided that subject to FA Council’s decision regarding the curtailment of the season at Steps 3 to 6, both committees will revisit discussions around a potential restructure at Steps 4-6 of the NLS, which was previously agreed and has been on hold since the 2019-20 season. A further update on this will be provided in due course.

12th February 2021
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/fa-national-league-system-update-65117

The FA have written to all Step Three to Six clubs with an update on the ongoing situation
We wish to provide the following update to Clubs in relation to the potential continuation or curtailment of the 2020/21 season at Steps 3 to 6 of the National League System (NLS).

The Alliance Committee (Steps 3 & 4) and Leagues Committee (Steps 5 & 6) met on 8 and 9 February, respectively, to discuss the data that was collated following the recent surveys circulated to Clubs at this level of the game.

During discussions, the Committees acknowledged the likelihood that the Prime Minister will set out a ‘roadmap’ to the nation on 22 February as to how Government intend to begin to reduce the current COVID-19 restrictions.

Given that any such update from the Government on 22 February may provide the Committees with additional, relevant information to help determine the preferred route forward, they have agreed to reconvene after this date.

In addition, the Alliance Committee are also conscious of the ongoing process the National League (Steps 1 & 2) are undertaking and the potential impact this could have on any actions the Committee may choose to take.

We will provide an update in due course.
On behalf of the Alliance and Leagues Committees

15th January 2021
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/covid-and-the-way-forward-64976

Pitching In Isthmian Chairman Nick Robinson has written to all clubs - and we thought we'd share his words with you

Our Chairman, Nick Robinson, has today written to all clubs spelling out the issues that the Trident Leagues face in dealing with the challenge of Covid-19. We've repeated the majority of his letter below, as we thought you'd all like to see it.

Dear Colleagues,

I am following up on the statement issued by the Trident (Northern Premier, Isthmian and Southern) Leagues last Friday, ahead of the Club Survey which will is due to be issued to all clubs by The FA today.

Thank you to those who have taken the time to register their views with the league, in response to which I want to provide as much context as possible. I also want to address several misconceptions evidenced by some Club statements.

Where are we now?

All Step 3 and 4 Clubs can give their views on whether the 2020/21 season should be terminated now and made null and void or, if not, which alternative option they prefer. Clubs can also put forward their own ideas as this is not a formal vote in response to a series of fixed options.

Alongside this consultation, the boards of the Trident Leagues feel it is important to provide direction to Clubs by making clear their unanimous belief that the best way forward is for the 2020/21 season to be terminated and made null and void at the earliest opportunity.

Is this a done deal?

No, it isn’t, the outcome must apply across Steps 3 & 4 as there can be no league-specific solutions. Clubs at Steps 2, 5 & 6 are also being consulted, the former via the National League and the latter via the FA Leagues Committee. A consistent approach across the National Leagues System is important.

FA Rules state that the final decision rests with FA Council, acting on a recommendation from the Alliance Committee, informed by the results of the survey. There is an obvious risk that Clubs’ views will simply reflect self-interest, so we are looking at how to use statistical analytics to filter out Clubs simply taking the easy option.

Why have the board recommended that the season be terminated and made null and void?

Our board’s decision is based on what we know now. First, nobody knows when lockdown will end. Government has given various dates, ranging from mid-February to April, but exiting lockdown clearly depends on the R rate of infection, compliance with existing restrictions and the efficacy of the vaccination programme.

Next, when lockdown is lifted, we do not know whether government will re-introduce the Tier system, or whether our Clubs would be in Tiers that allow non-elite sport to take place. 100% of our Clubs were in Tier 4 when the latest lockdown was introduced, and we could not stage games unless a substantial proportion of clubs across Steps 3 & 4 are downgraded to at least Tier 2.

The overwhelming feedback from Isthmian Clubs, replicated by the Northern Premier and Southern League Clubs, is that resuming competitive football is not financially viable unless paying fans to Phase 2 levels are permitted and Clubs able to derive secondary income from clubhouses or alternate sources. We have no control over the first two although we remain hopeful of good news on the third.

We currently have 1220 fixtures left to play across our four divisions. If circumstances permitted a re-start in March, at least two weeks would be required to bring players’ fitness levels up to scratch. This would mean clubs playing three times a week (and sometimes four) to enable a full fixture programme to be completed by 31st May.

If the 2020/21 season were extended into June, or it was not possible to resume the 2020/21 season until April (or later), we run into additional problems including players & volunteers wanting to take holidays (travel restrictions permitting), grass pitch maintenance (usually ten weeks) and the start of the 2021/22 season, in which the FA Cup qualifying round dates are pre-set to achieve the broadcasters’ target first round date.

We would also need to find a solution to Player contracts requiring Clubs to pay wages through to the end of the Playing Season. If 2020/21 is extended into June or beyond, the start of 2021/22 would probably be delayed, by which time the early FA Cup preliminary rounds would be played. triggering player wage payments.

No club has yet played enough games for final positions to be decided, and even if we re-started the season later, we would probably have to complete 75% of fixtures across each step to justify promotion and relegation.

Where are we with government funding?

We are all frustrated that the National League clubs have received compensation for not being allowed crowds, whilst no provision has been made for clubs at Steps 3 – 6 since we were denied crowds via the tier system and lockdown. Initially, government offered only loans; hopefully there will be better news shortly, although this will not be dependent on the continuation of the season.

What about fans, volunteers and sponsors?

There is a risk that, if the season is voided, spectators may drift away, season ticket holders may demand refunds and sponsors the same. Those risks exist whatever is decided. If your club’s fans want to make their views known, they should contact the Football Supporters Association, which is represented on the Alliance Committee.

Does termination have to result in Null & Void?

Yes, because results are then expunged. However, if an alternative solution can be found that upholds sporting integrity, addresses player contract issues and meets Clubs wishes, then that solution will be fully explored.

Several alternative options will be detailed in the FA’s club survey, the split division format outlined to clubs earlier in the season is only one option. The financial viability of the number of games that could be played is debatable. What is clear is that this would leave us well short of even 75% of fixtures completed that may be required to render a Points Per Game (PPG) calculation viable.

Other options have either been considered by the Trident Leagues or suggested by member clubs and are shown below. Whilst not listed in the survey, should you support them, please say so. Please note that some may have to be discounted due to regulatory issues. For now, however, all options remain on the table.

Every club plays every other club in their division once.

Such a model would force a PPG model to be used to determine final placings. Anecdotal evidence suggests the EFL will require 75% of games to be played to trigger PPG; the National League will probably follow the EFL and Steps 3 and 4 may then come under severe pressure to follow suit. This option would also require additional work to find a balance between home and away games. Inevitably, some Clubs could lose out.

Suspending the season until it is safe/viable to return.

We don’t know how long any hiatus might last. What we do know is that a lengthy suspension could see Clubs incur substantial extra wage costs. Other problems including pitch renovation, holidays and 2021/22 FA Cup qualifying rounds.

Merging 2019/20 season and 2020/21 results.

We have requested clarification from the FA, considering last summer’s decision by FA Council, whether it is possible to re-open a season previously determined to be closed and results therefore expunged. There may be other factors too. In the meantime, if you favour this option, please indicate in your response to the survey.

Suspend 2020/21 season and resume in August 2021.

This option would see the season suspended and then resumed in (say) September when Clubs would play remaining fixtures. To date, Clubs have only played 4 - 12 fixtures, and this option would provide plenty of time in which to complete the 2020/21 season even if there is further disruption. The challenges relate primarily to player wages, on which we will again seek advice from the FA.

Rules & Regulations

There’s no escaping the fact that each of these alternatives to termination will require changes to existing Rules. Such changes must pass through several FA committees before being implemented, and this takes time. As a League affiliated to the FA, the Isthmian League must abide by all the Rules of the Association so there is no “tear up the rule book” option.

What’s Plan B for next season?

Once the current season started, as a league we were not in control of government restrictions. Some may claim second sight, but I do not think anyone could be foreseen the intensity of the second wave, the arrival of a new variant and government’s reaction to each one. That said, the events of this winter will help us to plan for 2021/22 and when we can share plans with you, we will.

At this stage, we do not know how effective the Covid-19 vaccines will be in halting the pandemic; whether restrictions will still be in place in August or whether there will be further outbreaks requiring football to be suspended once again.

The Trident Leagues are looking at the fallback options, with further discussion taking place this week at Alliance Committee level. My starting point is that these would be like the plan shared with Clubs prior to the start of this season.
In my view, we also need a set of emergency rules are required that can be implemented in the event of a similar crisis. I am discussing this with Trident colleagues Mark Harris and Anthony Hughes.

Giving leadership

Whatever the process for determining the outcome of this season, we will not satisfy everyone. Some clubs say that they want our board to show leadership, whilst others demand that their voices are heard.

By surveying Clubs and providing a steer, we are trying to lead and give Clubs the opportunity to express their views. Further consultation may be necessary and, if so, I will keep you informed.

Kindest regards
Nick

8th January 2021
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/pitching-in-isthmian-league-statement-64923

An update from Nick Robinson, Chair of the Isthmian League, on the options for the 2020-21 season

The Pitching In Isthmian League- indeed each of the Trident Leagues- have today communicated with their member clubs as follows:

I am writing to update you with regard to the continuation, or otherwise, of the 2020/21 League season, given the latest position concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of the Isthmian Football League has, together with our fellow Trident Leagues, reviewed the implications of the latest government lockdown. The matter was also discussed at length by The FA’s Alliance Committee earlier this week.

In order to reach a decision that will apply across Steps 3 & 4 in the National League System, and which is informed by the views of all clubs at Steps 3 & 4, you will shortly be asked by the Football Association to provide your club’s views on whether the 2020/21 season should be terminated and, if not, what the alternative should be. This will take the form of a short survey.
Independent of that survey, all three of the Trident League’s boards hold the view that the season should cease immediately and be declared null and void.

The ultimate decision lies with The FA Council, following a proposal made by the Alliance Committee but no proposal will be drafted until Clubs’ views have been collated and assessed.
In the meantime, the Isthmian Football League is postponing all fixtures up to and including Saturday 6th March since there is no suggestion that the national lockdown will be lifted prior to said date.

The League will continue to provide its Member Clubs with updates as and when it is able to do so.

In the meantime, take care and stay safe.

Yours sincerely

N R Robinson
Chairman

30th December 2020
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/isthmian-league-covid-update-30-december-2020-64871

An update following today's government announcements

The Isthmian League Board met this evening following the latest Government review and they have unanimously agreed to continue with the pause of the 2020/21 season with the League now having all Member Clubs in Tier 4 areas.

The Board will continue to monitor the situation in line with the Government review dates and/or any decision that allows Government grants to become available to Member Clubs. The Board has still not set a formal re-start date, but as previously agreed Clubs will be given at least 14 days’ notice of the recommencement of the 2020/21 season allowing them preparation time to stage League matches.

The Board has also agreed to pause both their Development and Youth competitions until further notice.

19th December 2020
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/fa-statement-19-december-64802

Latest FA response to the government announcement of the creation of a tier 4 for London and the South East. All adult football in tier 4 up to step and including step 3 is suspended.

17th December 2020
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/isthmian-league-statement-thursday-17th-december-64785

The season remains paused

As indicated previously the Isthmian League Board has met following the latest Government review and they have unanimously agreed to continue with the pause of the 2020/21 season.

Since the initial survey on the 2nd December the infection rate has deteriorated in the geographical footprint of their Member Clubs, which has resulted in a much larger number of Isthmian League Clubs being placed in Tier 3. In reaching this decision the Board considered several factors such as the lack of income from secondary spend revenue, the reduced attendances at Tier 3 Clubs and more importantly, the duty of care the League has to Players, Club Officials, Volunteers and Supporters during this current pandemic.

The Board will continue to monitor the situation in line with the Government review dates and/or any decision that allows Government grants to become available to Member Clubs. The Board has not yet set a formal re-start date, but Clubs will give at least 14 days’ notice of the recommencement of the 2020/21 season allowing them preparation time to stage League matches.

It is also noted that the Southern League are taking a similar approach with their Member Clubs.

14th December 2020
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/trident-leagues-statement-monday-14th-december-202-64749

News from the Pitching In Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Leagues

The Trident Leagues (the Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Football Leagues) welcome the decision to allow some fans into grounds situated in Tier 3 areas.

However, in light of the decision of all 224 Clubs only last week to vote overwhelmingly in favour of suspending the current season the Leagues have decided to wait to see the implications of the Government’s review of the Tier system in England – due on Wednesday - before making any further announcements.

10th December 2020
Fans can return at ALL Covid Tiers- latest guidance from the FA

We've just received a statement from the FA, who have gained government agreement to allow home spectators to watch- following guidelines and with a limited capacity- across the country. Details below:
https://www.isthmian.co.uk/update-on-a-limited-return-of-home-spectators-for--64716

We await a further update from the league as to the next steps on a possible re-start in light of the latest news from the FA. At our step 4 level it would mean 400 spectators allowed at games in tiers 1 & 2 and 200 spectators in tier 3.

6th December2020
Following the announcement on the 4th December from the Trident Leagues, see below, an update as been provided concerning the U23 Development League.

The Development U23 fixtures have been given the go ahead subject to both teams being happy to play. As it stands the Millers could re-commence playing in the new year with a home fixture at The Artic Stadium on Wednesday 6th January versus Hastings United, kick off 7.45pm. Further details of forthcoming games will follow as soon as we know.

Obviously things can change and much will be influenced by any future changes in the COVID-19 tiers allocated to different regions going forward.

4th December 2020
Here is an updated- and far more detailed- statement regarding the further covid-related shutdown announced yesterday

Following the statement issued by the Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Football Leagues yesterday, further clarification can now be given in relation to the voting following the Zoom meetings held by all 3 Trident Leagues with their Member Clubs to discuss the impact of the raising of the lockdown on 2nd December.

There were 224 Clubs voting across the 3 Leagues and of these 172 agreed with the proposition to continue the pause in fixtures, 51 disagreed and there was 1 abstention. Broken down by League, 57 Clubs in the Northern Premier League voted to agree with 4 disagreeing, 68 Clubs in the Southern League agreed with 14 disagreeing and in the Isthmian League it was much closer with 47 Clubs agreeing, 33 disagreeing and 1 abstention.

The “Agree” vote was therefore 76% and it has been agreed that the three Leagues will not sanction fixtures at this time.

It is intended that the situation is kept under review in line with Government review on the Tier allocations and restrictions. Accordingly, the next review is set for 16 December and then 30 December. It is the hope of all the Leagues that a date in January can be set for a return to fixtures with Clubs who wish being allowed to play before that date but this will not be until there is a change in the Tiers and/or some progress in the funding of the Clubs at this level.

The Government has allocated £25m to Sport England to fund Steps 1 to 6 of the National Leagues System, of which £14m is set for Steps 3-6 but is heavily weighted in favour of loans, not grants. The FA is working tirelessly with DCMS and Sport England to have the funding presented as Grants. However, these negotiations take time, and it is not expected to have an answer or clarification of details of even the loans until mid-January.

The deep concern of all involved in the NLS is that circumstances may mean that it is not possible to conclude the current format of competition in a manner in which promotion and relegation can be achieved throughout the whole pyramid with Step 2 being brought up to 48 Clubs and Step 4 brought up to 240 Clubs.

If, therefore, no progress is made by the Government on the Tiers in either of the two December reviews, it is the intention of the Alliance Committee to circulate those concerned with a survey to gather the views of the Clubs as how best to finish the season. Options will include an alternative format competition and extending the season possibly into June 2021. However the implications of all such proposals will involve the cost of players contracts and the ability of some clubs to continue playing because of other issues of grounds and the need to prepare grass pitches for the following season.

The Leagues are mindful of the needs of all Clubs and are striving to find a solution which is fair to all.