The 2015/2016 season has been badly hit by Winter weather. Pitches across the country have been hit heavy rain and flooding. With no end in sight to the unpredictable weather, Vale Wanderers has put together this guide for minding your club pitch.
- Make sure the Youths team don’t train on it, even if the manager says he needs to work on shape.
- Take the goals down to ensure there are no random games of headers and volleys.
- Employ an angry bearded man to shout in Irish at any whippersnappers who dare enter the pitch.
- Employ an angry dog to keep the dog walkers way.
- Tell the seniors there is a fitness session on to keep them away from training.
- In advance of the referee arriving, cut approximately 12 inches off the length of the corner flag to simulate sinking flags.
- Wear wellies and fisherman pants when the referee arrives.
- Walk the pitch with the referee and bend your knees every now and again to simulate you sinking slightly.
- When walking the pitch with the referee cover him/her with an umbrella even if it is not raining.
- Release air from the ball the referee uses to bounce test the pitch.
We hope these top tips help your club mind your pitch this season!