What is MINIMUM OPERATING CRITERIA?

The Scottish FA and the Non-Professional Game Board (NPGB) have worked together to create the Minimum Operating Criteria (MOC) – a clear baseline of standards that all registered clubs must meet from Season 2025/26 onwards.
The MOC ensures that every club provides a safe, transparent and supportive environment for players, volunteers and coaches. It does not replace existing ANA or competition requirements, but instead creates a consistent foundation across all registered clubs.

WHY MINIMUM OPERATING CRITERIA?

Football clubs play a vital role in their communities. The MOC exists to:

• Strengthen governance, safeguarding and operational standards.
• Provide confidence to parents, carers and players when choosing a club.
• Support clubs to review and develop their practices in a positive and structured way.
• Create a consistent national approach across all NPGB-affiliated organisations.
• Help build a safe, inclusive and sustainable football environment.

The first year of implementation will focus on embedding the process and supporting clubs, with opportunities to refine the model ahead of Season 2026/27.

WHO MUST MEET THE CRITERIA?

The MOC applies to all registered Scottish FA members across youth and adult football. Requirements differ slightly depending on whether a club fields youth players or adult players (18+).