Goalposts – what you need to know
Goalpost storage:
- If a goal isn’t being used, be sure that it’s been properly stored. Goals shouldn’t ever be left accessible, upright, or unstable.
- For socketed and folded free-standing goals, make sure they’re not left leaning or unsecured. Otherwise lay them flat on the ground so they can’t fall over
Mobile / Free-standing goalposts:
- If you have a free-standing goal, you can ensure they’re appropriately stabilised by reading the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Stabilisation can be affected by poor installation techniques and ground conditions. The most reliable methods for stabilising free-standing goals are:
- Attaching the back bar to permanent fixing points via eyebolts and stainless-steel loops set in concrete blocks, suitable attachment points on a permanent fence or wall.
- Using weights attached to the goal’s back bar either in the right positions as described by the manufacturer, or integral to the goal.
- Using pins/pegs/u-staples/screw-in anchors on natural turf pitches is generally not recommended (due to changeable ground conditions amongst other variables).
Quick reminder: Any equipment used to secure goals should be kept away from the immediate playing area to protect players and officials.
Goalpost safety
Previously, there have been several serious injuries and even fatalities resulting from the unsafe use of goalposts. Here’s how you can help prevent these incidents from happening in the future:
- Ensure goalposts of any size are securely anchored to the ground or have a weighted back bar
- Don’t let children (or adults!) swing or climb on the goalpost
- Dismantle and remove portable goalposts between matches to prevent unauthorised use
- Metal cup hooks on any part of a goal frame have been banned. But, you can secure nets with plastic fixings, arrow-head shaped plastic hooks, or tape
- “Homemade” or altered goalposts are an absolute no-no – just don’t use them
- Replace wobbly, non-compliant wooden goals with metal, aluminium, or UPVC goalposts instead.