June 2005

Re. Black or very dark team kits

Dear Secretary

During the last two seasons there has been a proliferation of clubs wearing black or very dark kit that clashes with the traditional black uniform worn by referees.

The rules applicable to the wearing of black kits is a nationwide rule imposed by the Football Association for all clubs below the Football League. Such kits are also not permitted under league rules or the rules of this Association. It is acknowledged that these kits are freely available to purchase but we have no control over what kit manufacturers and suppliers make available for sale.

The wearing of black kits has caused a number of difficulties. Some referees have refused to play the game whilst some clubs have asked the referee to wear a different coloured top. Under FA Rule and Surrey County FA rule, referees are obliged to wear the traditional black kit –colours such as green and yellow are only for use by those referees at the very top level including UEFA & FIFA.

Other team kit colours including dark purple, navy blue and dark green can also cause problems and these are also prohibited under rule if they clash with the referee.

The Association has remained vigilant and tried to adopt a softly softly approach with no action taken against clubs, acknowledging that football kits form a large part of a club’s expenditure. However, as the problem has escalated and is unlikely to abate, a decision has been taken that with effect from season 2006/2007 the Association will adopt a zero tolerance policy, the result of which will mean that such kits will not be permitted under any circumstances.

In the meantime, if your club has such a kit, then for the coming season it remains at the referee’s discretion if it can be worn. The referee, however, will not be expected to change his shirt from black. We feel that by giving a years ‘grace’, clubs will be able to comply without being financially penalised.

One reasonably inexpensive option to avoid games being postponed is lighter colour shorts and/or socks; something that breaks up the overall effect of a dark strip. The dark shorts and socks can then be utilised in future seasons with a light shirt colour.

Finally, as with many other things, the rules at the top level are different. It is permissible for Arsenal, Manchester United et al to wear black kits. I am disappointed that this is allowed but have to accept that this is not going to change.

I am happy to answer any questions that you may have.

Yours faithfully

Ray Ward

County Secretary