For the past 15 years, King’s Lynn Ability Counts FC has been more than just a club to me. It’s been a sanctuary, a place where I have forged lifelong friendships, and a pivotal part of my growth and enjoyment in sports. Through this club, I have learned the values of teamwork, perseverance, and inclusivity. What makes King’s Lynn Ability Counts exceptional is its open-arms approach—it’s a club for everyone, regardless of who you are or where you come from. It’s not just a team; it’s a community.

Recently, decisions have been made to significantly reduce the match duration from 90 minutes to 60 minutes. This change threatens to alter the dynamics which have made the club unique and inclusive. A 90-minute match format is not just traditional but pivotal, offering players the full experience of competitive football, promoting fitness, and ensuring equitable playing time for all its members.

Statistics from research by the Football Association suggest that the standard match length across similar leagues remains at 90 minutes, fostering a consistent training and playing experience. More playtime helps enhance skills, camaraderie, and physical fitness among players of all abilities, a core value of our club. Shortening game times would limit these opportunities and diminish the ethos of inclusivity that this club stands for.

We recognize the logistical challenges involved in organizing 90-minute matches, but cutting the match length undermines the fundamental principles and benefits that Ability Counts has cultivated. Instead of reducing playing times, we propose collaborating with local authorities and club management to find alternative solutions that maintain the current format while ensuring sustainability.

Keeping sessions at 90 minutes is crucial for the continued development, enjoyment, and inclusiveness that King’s Lynn Ability Counts FC provides to its players. This preservation is vital for everyone involved, from the youngest newcomer to the seasoned veterans of this cherished community.

We urge the decision-makers to consider the long-term benefits of preserving the full-length matches. By maintaining the 90-minute sessions, we ensure that the values of our club remain intact and that players continue to thrive in an environment that supports their passion and growth in football.

Please sign this petition to show your support for King’s Lynn Ability Counts FC and its commitment to keeping football inclusive, competitive, and complete at 90 minutes.