THE NEWSLETTER OF THE SHROPSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
MeetournewShropshire FAYouthCouncil FootballFoundation 25thAnniversary Daysoffootball
After the first two energetic and inspiring meetings, the newly formed Shropshire FA Youth Council is officially up and running.
After the first two energetic and inspiring meetings, the newly formed Shropshire FA Youth Council is officially up and running.
With key positions filled and ideas already flowing, this passionate group of young leaders is ready to make its mark on football across the county.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of a game-changing moment for grassroots sport - the creation of the Football Foundation by the Premier League, The FA and Government.
Through taking part in training sessions, Logan and Corey found common ground that has set them up for the future.
Before they took part in the Foundation’s coaching sessions, Logan and Corey struggled to find common ground as brothers and often clashed in physical confrontations.
PLUS LOTS MORE!
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Grassroots football in Shropshire is built on the stories, celebrations, milestones and hard work of our local clubs.
Whether you’re marking an anniversary, launching new plans, celebrating success, or simply have news to share, we’d love to feature it in the Shropshire FA magazine.
Get in touch and let’s showcase the fantastic work happening across our football community.
Email your news to:
Sarah.Thompson4@ShrosphireFA.com
Afterthefirsttwoenergeticandinspiringmeetings,thenewly formed Shropshire FA Youth Council is officially up and running.
With key positions filled and ideas already flowing, this passionate group of young leaders is ready to make its mark onfootballacrossthecounty.
Setting the tone for what’s to come: open dialogue, shared ambition and a clear commitment to making football more inclusive, the dynamic and youth-driven, members discussed everything from grassroots engagement to referee development.
Several young people aged 14-24 have now stepped into their new leadership roles, each bringing unique perspectives and lived experience to the table:
Chair – Ruby: Setting the vision and leading the Council with energy and ambition.
Vice-Chair – Jae: Supporting coordination, collaboration and ensuring every member’s voice is heard.
Referee Champion – Callum: Promoting opportunities for young referees and tackling the challenges of recruitment and retention.
Women & Girls Champion – Isabella & Georgia: Leading initiatives to break down barriers and inspire more girls to play, coach and lead.
Disability Champion – Zach: Ensuring accessibility and inclusion remain central to every project and event.
Coaches & Volunteers Champion – Paddy & Charlie: Supporting the lifeblood of grassroots football and encouraging more young people to get involved behind the scenes.
Social Media – Fran: Bringing youth perspectives to life online, creating engaging content and amplifying the Council’s message across Shropshire.
Mentor - Caitlin: Providing guidance, encouragement and a vital link between the Youth Council and Shropshire FA.
Together, they form a team committed to collaboration, innovation and championing youth involvement at every level of the game.
Early discussions have already focused on practical projects that can make a real difference - from launching social media campaigns and celebrating local role models to exploring new ways to support young referees and coaches.
The creation of the Youth Council marks a bold step forward for the Shropshire FA, reflecting its commitment to empowering young people and embedding their voices into decision-making. By working alongside senior staff, board members and the wider football community, the Youth Council is ensuring that the next generation is not just playing the game - they’re helping to shape it.
With passion, purpose and a shared vision for the future, the Shropshire FA Youth Council is already showing what happens when young people are given the space to lead. Their journey is only just beginning, but the message is clear: the future of football in Shropshire is in safe and inspired hands.
Keep up with the Youth Council’s work, campaigns and opportunities on Shropshire FA’s official channels.
And look out in December’s digital magazine for an introduction to each of them and hear their reasons for stepping into the limelight.
Thisyearmarksthe25thanniversaryofagame-changing momentforgrassrootssport-thecreationofthe Football FoundationbythePremierLeague,TheFAandGovernment.
Celebrating the progress made since 2000 towards their core mission - giving every community a great place to play - as well as looking ahead to what’s next for communities up and down the country, the Football Foundation has so far invested over £1 billion since 2000.
Looking to the future, the Football Foundation has recently published a new Local Football Facility Plan for both Shropshire and for Telford, which sets out a vision for transforming grassroots sports facilities across the area.
Created in partnership with Shropshire FA, Shropshire Council, Shrewsbury Town in the Community, Telford and Wrekin Council and other community stakeholders, the Local Plans act as a blueprint for providing the grassroots football facility improvements that communities across the country needs and deserves.
Projects identified could include brand new 3G pitches to enable people to play all year round, no mattertheweatherortimeofdayor refurbishments to existing changing facilities, making them more welcoming and accessible for the localcommunity.
To find out more about the local plansinyourareavisit:
Shropshire - Local Football Facility PlanforShropshire,
And for Telford click on the link here: https://localplans.footballfoundation. org.uk/local-authorities-index/telfordand-wrekin/telford-and-wrekinexecutive-summary/
In May this year, the Football Foundation took grassroots sport to Westminster.
North Shropshire MP Helen Morgan joined former Premier League player Graeme Le Saux at a Football Foundation event in Westminster to learn about the funding the charity has delivered so far, as well as what theyhaveplannedforthefuture.
FootballFoundationLaunches GameChanging Lionesses HERe to Play Fund
Following the success of the Lionesses earlier in the summer, the Football Foundation has launched a newfundtoprovidewomenandgirls playing grassroots football with welcomingandinclusivefacilities.
In the last four years the number of girls participating in football has more than doubled from 1.2m in the 20/21 season to 2.7m in 24/25, undoubtedly inspired by the Lionesses triumphant success in back-to-backUEFAWomen’sEUROs.
Through the Lionesses HERe to Play Fund, the Football Foundation will help ensure grassroots sports facilities across England are welcoming, safe and accessible for this new generation of players, helping to translate the spike in demand into a long-term transformationofgrassrootsfootball.
Millie Bright, England and Chelsea defender, and Football Foundation Supporter,said,“Itisincredibletosee how the Lionesses’ success over the last few years has driven change across the country to support all thosewhohavebeeninspiredtoplay thegame.
“We must ensure that the women and girls who are heading down to their local pitch have the best experience when they get there and welcoming and accessible facilities areattheheartofthis.
“I know from my experience of playing grassroots as a kid that football gave me a greater sense of confidence, helped me make friends and get active. I want players to keep returning to their local facility.
“Thanks to the Lionesses HERe to Play Fund things such as better lighting to help women and girls feel safe; the conversion of open showers to ones in cubicles; and the provision of sanitary bins, will ensure all women and girls feel like they belong to grassroots clubs. Importantly I hope that it will ensure they want to return again and again.”
The Lionesses HERe to Play Fund will provide clubs and organisations the chance to apply for grants of up to £25,000 for items that will make their facilities more inclusive.
Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said, “25 years ago, a unique partnership between the Premier League, The FA and Government created the Football Foundation to ensure every community has a great place to play.
“In recent years we’ve seen the women’s and girls’ game going from strength to strength, particularly following the Lionesses’ inspiring victories. Last season, over 12,500 women’s and girls’ grassroots football teams were playing on sites that’ve benefitted from the funding we’ve delivered to help meet this growing demand.
“The Lionesses HERe to Play Fund will enable even more women and girls to get down to their local pitch, whether they dream of following in their heroes’ footsteps or just want to enjoy the game with their friends.”
Grassroots football is where every journey begins - the place where children first fall in love with the game. As Coaches and Volunteers, we pride ourselves on creating welcoming environments that allow every child to thrive. But as our understanding of players’ needs evolves, one area stands out as essential for inclusion: neurodiversity.
Across Shropshire, hundreds of children taking part in grassroots footballareneurodivergent-
meaning their brains work, process and respond to the world in ways that may differ from what’s considered “typical.” This includes children with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurological differences.
Understanding these differences isn’t just about awareness; it’s about adapting how we coach so that all players can enjoy and succeed in the game.
Neurodiversity recognises that everyone’s brain is wired differently. These differences aren’t “problems” to fix - they’re natural variations that shape how people learn, communicate and interact.
In a football session, which might mean:
• A child who struggles to follow long verbal instructions.
• A player who finds noise or change overwhelming.
• Someone who thrives on routine and repetition.
• Or a child whose creativity and hyperfocus make them an incredible analytical person on the pitch.
As coaches, the challenge is to create sessions that meet these diverse needs without singling anyone out. That starts with awareness and training.
Neurodiversity training helps coaches understand how to support every child, building confidence both on and off the pitch.
It also helps clubs:
• Increase player retention by making sessions accessible to all abilities.
• Build positive reputations as inclusive community clubs.
But more than that - it’s simply the right thing to do.
Every child deserves the same chance to feel part of the team, score that first goal and grow through sport.
Shropshire FA encourages all clubs to explore neurodiversity awareness as part of their ongoing coach education and safeguarding commitments.
If you’re interested in finding out more:
• Contact Sam Griffiths - Designated Safeguarding Officer: sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com
Football belongs to everyone. By understanding neurodiversity, coaches can unlock the potential of players who might otherwise feel overlooked or misunderstood.
Every child deserves to be seen, supported and celebrated - and with the right approach, grassroots football in Shropshire can truly lead the way in inclusion.
Create a better, fairer game for all
During the summer, Shropshire FA announced an exciting new partnership with Shrewsbury Town Foundation, the charitable arm of Shrewsbury Town FC, to drive forward Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across grassroots football in the county.
This collaboration marks a significant step in both organisations’ shared commitment to ensuring football in Shropshire is truly a game for everyone.
Meet Logan & Corey
Through taking part in training sessions, Logan and Corey found common ground that has set them up for the future.
Before they took part in the Foundation’s coaching sessions, Logan and Corey struggled to find common ground as brothers and often clashed in physical confrontations.
As young adults, Logan and Corey faced challenges due to their Social Emotional Mental Health conditions including ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorders. This caused friction between the two, often resulting in aggressive outbursts. They found it difficult to be passionate about school, with PE being the only lesson that they had an interest in.
This led to them joining the Foundation’s coaching sessions, where their love for sport blossomed into a passion for football.
Logan and Corey took part in goal keeping sessions with Shrewsbury Town FC’s Jaden Bevan, which allowed them to develop their skills and grows as players.
In addition to this, they also attended weekly, one to one coaching sessions at the Foundation. In these coaching sessions, Foundation Degree Student, Andrew Price, now Shrewsbury Town Foundation’s Inclusion Manager, inspired the boys to use football as motivational tool that helped them with teamwork, resilience, and brought them closer together as brothers.
Following this, both are now enthusiastic about pursuing a career in football and want to become the first two brothers to play in the same Shrewsbury Town team.
Shropshire FA and Shrewsbury Town Foundation are now calling on clubs, players and stakeholders across the region to get involved and be part of creating a better, fairer game for all.
To find out how your club can get involved, please contact:
Dylan Shinton - 07719 069883
Dylan.Shinton@shropshirefa.com
Tom Wellings - 07719 047701
Tom.Wellings@shropshirefa.com
Or Andrew Price at Shrewsbury Town Foundation andrew.price@foundationstfc.co.uk
November,2025
Congratulations to Shrewsbury 99ers Walking Football Club on being crowned league champions for the second consecutive season!
A fantastic achievement and a testament to the team’s consistency and dedication.
GoaloftheMonthKicksOff!
September saw the launch of our very first Goal of the Month Competition - and what an incredible response we had!
A huge thank you to everyone who sent in their clips showcasing some truly outstanding goals.
Our first winner was Alfie, with a brilliant curling strike from outside the box - a goal worthy of the spotlight!
A special thank you to our partner, McDonald’s for their continued support with the competition.
Don’t forget to send in your goals each month for a chance to featureand please remember to get consent from parents or guardians if you’re sharing footage of players under 18.
Email your entry to Luke.Flindall@shropshirefa.com or send us a DM via our social media channels with your clip.
We’re one of more than 40 organisations across the UK health sector to have committed to urgent action to reverse the ‘alarming decline’ in clinical academic posts.
Clinical academics are NHS doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals who split their time between treating patients and conducting research to find better ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases.
Unlike researchers who work solely in labs, or clinicians who focus only on patient care, clinical academics bridge both worlds – bringing the latest lifesaving scientific discoveries straight to the bedside. Threat to patient care
Now a statement organised by the Academy of Medical Sciences and signed by leaders from UK universities, research funders, industry partners, the NHS and UK Government, addresses what experts describe as a threat to both patient care and the UK’s economic future.
A report published earlier this year revealed a six per cent decline in medically-qualified researchers since 2012, with senior lecturer positions falling by 24 per cent, whilst NHS consultant numbers have risen by over 50 per cent.
The situation is set to worsen, with a growing proportion of senior academics nearing retirement whilst early-career entrants continue to decline.
The widening gap threatens the UK’s capacity to maintain its position as a global leader in health research. Beyond the benefits to patients, medical research generates a 25p annual return on every £1 invested. Urgent action needed
The statement of ambition and intent says urgent action is needed to increase the number of permanent clinical academic posts, year on year, to meet the needs of the nation’s health and economy.
This directly supports ambitions set out in the Government’s Life Sciences Sector Plan published in the summer. It also builds on recommendations from major reports commissioned by the Office for Strategic Co-ordination of Health Research (OSCHR) which identified the urgent need for action to address the decline in permanent posts.
Signatories from organisations including us, the Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, Cancer Research UK and the Government’s Department of Health and Social Care as well as Russell Group universities warn that the decline will threaten both the discovery of new treatments and the quality of patient care.
The signatories have committed to action including supporting the creation of new posts for clinical academics, prioritising funding for new clinical academic posts and addressing challenges faced by underrepresented groups, including nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, ethnic minorities and women.
Our clinical director, Dr Sonya BabuNarayan, said: “The UK’s position as a global leader in medical research is at risk because of a broken pipeline for the clinical academic workforce. Healthcare professionals who combine clinical work with research and teaching play a critical role in developing new ways to deliver safe and effective care, improving our health service in the process, and making sure the next generation of clinical staff are trained.
“At the moment, this indispensable part of both the health and research ecosystems is under threat because the current medical academic workforce is ageing, with more people approaching retirement and too few entering at the early career stage. On top of this, in academic cardiology, women and people from an ethnic minority background remain severely underrepresented in senior positions. All this needs to urgently change if we are to ensure robust pipeline of talent, and retain skilled researchers in NHS embedded research for longer. The upcoming NHS workforce plan is a muchneeded chance to turn this situation around.”
AndyWeston-CEO& SeniorSafeguardingLead
ZoeGriffiths-Headof FootballServices
SamGriffiths-Designated SafeguardingOfficer
Kemi Smallman - Football Services Administrator
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
info@shropshirefa.com
https://www.shropshirefa.com/
@ShropshireFA
shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
ShropshireFA
James Salliss - Grassroots Services Administrator
TomWellings-Referees &Facilities
DylanShinton- Club DevelopmentandPathways
SarahThompson-PR& CommunicationsOfficer
LukeFlindall-DigitalMedia& ParticipationAdministrator
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET 01743362769
info@shropshirefa.com
https://www.shropshirefa.com/
@ShropshireFA
shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
ShropshireFA
SUSTAINTHE GAME…..
Shropshire FA and Sustainable Leaders in Sport (SLiS)are offering a flexible, practical programme designed to help grassroots sports organisations take meaningful steps towards environmental responsibility.
Through SLiS, clubs can choose from two easystartingpoints:
DIY Resource Pack – a hands-on starter kit packed with guidance, checklists and ideasforclubstakingtheirfirststeps.
Sustainability Pathway – an online tool that helps clubs plan and track their sustainability progress, including the full Resource Pack plus structured support andguidance.
APartnershipBuiltforImpact
Many grassroots clubs want to be more sustainable – but face challenges with time, budgetandexpertise.
SLiSaddressesthesebarriersbybeing:
Practical & affordable -designedforreal grassrootsneeds
Cost-saving - reduce energy and water billsovertime
Future-proofing -buildlong-termclimate resilience
Connected - join a growing movement alongside professional clubs and organisations
SLiS is simple to start, easy to follow, and designed for real-world impact – helping clubs, communities and the planet move towardsagreenergame.
To find out more: Shropshire FASustainableLeadersInSport
SustaintheGame
Sustain The Game,’ a collaboration that will give local clubs access to tailored resources and tools to become more sustainable, resilient and future-ready, reinforces Shropshire FA’s commitment to supporting the grassroots game both on andoffthepitch.
NoClubTooSmall–StartYourGreenJourney
YOUTH FOOTBALL IS CHANGING FROM THE 2026/27 SEASON
As The FA announced in February, from the 2026/27 season, changes will be introduced to Youth Football focused on maximising the experience of all young players.
Tailoring youth football to fit even better and mean even more for all young players in England.
The changes in 2012 to the way youth football is played has a profoundly positive impact on the technical development and personal enjoyment of young players from grassroots all the way through to the England teams.
Now it's time to seize the initiative. To take the lead in shaping an even greater experience for the next generation. To give youth players more opportunity, more variety, more responsibility and action to feed their potential, empower their character and grow a lifelong attachment for the game we all love.
For more information click on the link below:
https://futurefit.englandfootball.c om/futurefit/index.html?
sc_src=email_6945098&sc_lid=72 9603981&sc_uid=fD2YZP1nHt&sc _llid=5164
JointheFunwithWildcats &SquadGirls inShropshire!
Areyoulookingforafun,friendly, andconfidence-boostingwaytoget yourdaughtermoving?
Whethershe’salreadyfootball-mad orjustwantstotrysomethingnew, ShropshireFAisproudtosupportThe FA’sWildcatsandSquadGirls programmes,tailor-madefootball sessionsthatgivegirlsaged5-14a chancetoshine.
Wildcats,forgirlsaged5-11,isa brilliantintroductiontofootball whereit’sallaboutfun,friendships andlearningnewskillsinasafe, pressure-freeenvironment.
Whetheryourchildhaskickedaball beforeornot,everygirliswelcome. SquadGirls,forages12-14,isa naturalnextstep-combiningthefun andfreedomofWildcatswithmore team-basedactivity.
It’sperfectforgirlswhomayhave driftedawayfromfootballorwantto tryitforthefirsttimeinarelaxed, socialsetting.
Withsessionsrunningintownsand villagesacrossShropshire,there’s likelyaWildcatsorSquadGirlsgroup nearyou.
Theseprogrammesarealready inspiringhundredsoflocalgirlstobe active,buildfriendshipsandfallin lovewithfootball.
GetInvolved–SignUpToday
ContactDylanShintonatShropshire FAformoreinformation dylan.shinton@shropshirefa.com
Shropshire FA’s accredited club programme is designed to provide support for clubs, strengthen infrastructure and build the foundations to provide inclusive footballing opportunities for all of the community.
2024- 3 5* Clubs
2028- 10 5* Clubs
It aligns with our ambition to have 10 Thriving Community Clubs by 2028 - clubs that lead the way in leadership & governance, coaches & volunteers, player opportunities and community engagement
Inclusioncriteria:
England Football Accredited (2* & 3* clubs automatically enrol)
Providing more than one player pathway (male, female and disability)
Willingness to engage in support and development activity
Demonstrated governance and strategic practice
What’sinitforyou?
A dedicated CFA Club Development Officer and access to support from an FA Club Consultant
Guidance on funding applications and facility projects
Receive a club assessment, with planned areas of improvement.
Tailored workshops and CPD events
Direct help with long-term club planning
5PillarClubFramework
Community Player Opportunities
Leadership & Governance
Coaches & Volunteers
Facilities
Shropshire FA 2025-26 Information Booklet
Supporting 3*, 2* and selected 1* clubs in the county
Built on the Thriving Community Club framework, these pillars support clubs to grow, strengthen and thrive. The pillars don’t stand alone, they interconnect to form the foundation of long-term success. Clubs included in the Accredited Club programme receive specific support, templates, and access to workshops for each pillar over the season.
Wanttoknowmore?
Email: dylan.shinton@shropshirefa.com
Phone: 07491 953212
Across the country, football clubs are growing in size but becoming fewer in number.
As a result, many are evolving beyond the pitch and positioning themselves as central community hubs.
To support this ongoing transformation, The FA has launched the Club Programme, designed to help clubs operate more sustainably, expand their reach and build stronger community ties.
The initiative focuses on three core areas:
1. Strengthening Club Finances
Support for clubs to take greater ownership of facilities (e.g., 3G pitches, grass surfaces and clubhouses)
Guidance in developing commercial and sponsorship opportunities
Access to tools and training to enhance financial and business skills
2. Expanding Playing Opportunities
Improved services and benefits for England
Football Accredited clubs to encourage growth
Support for 1*, 2*, and 3* clubs to increase female and disability participation, and to develop coaches, referees and volunteers
Continued backing for smaller clubs across both rural and urban areas
Help in launching FA sessional programmes, including access to funding and training
3. Deepening Community Engagement
Assistance in showcasing and maximising social and economic impact
Mental health signposting support for club members and wider communities
Links to other community groups and services (e.g., NHS, police, refugee networks)
This initiative is designed to help clubs become Thriving Community Clubs - defined as 3-star accredited clubs with strong leadership, robust governance and a supported coaching and volunteer network.
This month, Football Development Officer Dylan Shinton, alongside Club Consultant Martin Harrison, held initial meetings with local clubs to begin this exciting journey.
If you're a 2 or 3-star club and want to get started on the programme, get in touch at dylan.shinton@shropshirefa.com to gain access to the Club Programme Platform.
The world of sport sponsorship and brand activation is undergoingaseismicshift.
Brands are no longer content with simply slapping their logo on a stadium hoarding or a player’s kit and hoping for maximum impressions. Today’s landscape demands more - more meaning, more impact, more purpose. As fans become increasingly value-driven, brands must pivottowardscampaignsthatprioritisesocialimpact.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the grassroots sports space, where the emotional and cultural stakes areattheirhighest.
Football at its core has always been about more than just winning. On local pitches across the UK, grassroots football brings kids, parents, coaches and volunteers together in ways that go far beyond sport. It’s here, in muddy boots and on community sidelines, that the game shapescultureandbuildsfutures.
TheRiseoftheSociallyConsciousFan
Supporters today aren’t passive spectators. They’re engaged, connected and deeply invested in the issues that shape both their communities and the game they love.
Frominclusivityandmentalhealthtotacklingracismand climate action, fans expect the clubs and brands involved in grassroots football to stand for something real.Infact,researchshowsmorethan70%ofUKsports fans believe sponsorship should promote positive social change - a figure that rises even higher among Gen Z andMillennialfans.
For grassroots football, this isn’t just a trend; it’s a cultural shift. Families now expect action, not just advertising.
Cause-led parentships and sponsorship aren’t just good forthegame-butgoodforbusiness.
Here’swhy:
Authenticity builds trust - Communities know when brands are serious and when they’re faking it. Supportingrealissuesearnslong-termrespect.
Purposesparksengagement-Storiesrootedinvalues are the ones people talk about and share, both locallyandnationally.
Stand out in a crowded market - With so many brands chasing visibility, purpose-driven sponsorship cutsthroughthenoise.
Inspire from the inside out - Employees, volunteers and partners want to be part of something meaningful. Purpose energises teams as much as fans.
HowBrandsCanDeliverPurposeinGrassrootsFootball For those ready to step onto the grassroots pitch with realintent,afewprinciplesstandout:
Listen first: Ask players, teams, referees and families about the challenges they face. Build campaigns with them,notjustforthem.
Partner wisely: Work with governing bodies, leagues andcharitieswhoalreadyhavetrustontheground.
Think beyond matchday: Legacy projects - from workshops to online resources -leave an impact long afterthefinalwhistle
BeyondSponsorship:ASharedResponsibility
For brands, the lesson is clear: don’t just show up with a badge.Rollupyoursleeves,stepintothecommunityand make a lasting difference. Because when football sponsorshipmovesbeyondvisibilityandintorealimpact, everyone benefits - the players, the clubs, the fans and thesponsorsthemselves.
FinalWord
The future of grassroots football sponsorship isn’t about being the biggest logo on the pitch. It’s about being the brandthatshowsup,listensandmakeschangehappen. And in that future, purpose isn’t just an advantage. It’s thewholegame.
The Shropshire FA is proud to unveil its brand-new Business Partner Brochure, presenting a powerful invitation to businesses and organisations that want to invest in more than just sport - but in community, inclusion and opportunity.
With over 13,000 players, 170 clubs, 1,000 teams, and 6,000 dedicated volunteers, Shropshire FA is the beating heart of football in the county.
But its impact goes far beyond the pitch.
Backed by a mission to improve lives through football, the newly launched brochure offers bespoke partnership opportunities that deliver not only high visibility but also lasting social impact.
“This is more than sponsorship – it’s about shaping the future of football in our communities,” says Andy Weston, CEO at Shropshire FA.
“We’re offering organisations the chance to be part of something powerful, authentic and deeply rooted in Shropshire life.”
The Business Partner Brochure outlines meaningful ways for organisations to demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) while aligning with one of the region’s most accessible and values-driven sporting bodies.
Partners will be directly supporting:
Youth development programmes that nurture life skills, resilience and leadership.
Disability football initiatives that champion inclusion and opportunity.
The Opportunities That Go Beyond
Partnership options include:
Volunteer and referee training, helping grow a sustainable, skilled grassroots network.
Facility development, ensuring safer, more welcoming environments for all.
Exclusive naming rights for competitions and county-wide initiatives.
Targeted exposure through events, digital campaigns and community outreach. Participation in landmark events like County Cup Finals and the Annual Grassroots Awards.
Hospitality packages and national football experiences that bring tangible value back to your team.
As part of its bold 2024–2028 Strategy, and looking ahead to its 150th anniversary in 2027, Shropshire FA is focused on increasing its impact in local communities. With a current £128 million estimated social return on investment, the evidence is clear: football changes lives.
Now, businesses have the chance to become part of a legacy that blends purpose with performance.
By becoming a Shropshire FA Business Partner, you’re not only gaining exposure -you are investing in community wellbeing, youth empowerment and inclusive opportunity across the county.
To view the brochure and explore how your organisation can be a force for good through football, visit link SFA Partner Brochure 2025 Print.pdf
To view the brochure and explore how your organisation can be a force for good through football, visit link SFA Partner Brochure 2025 Print.pdf
NATALIE PIETRZYK, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SEAH
“Supporting grassroots football is at the heart ofwhat we do. Our ongoing partnership with Shropshire FA means we can directly contribute to the growth and success of local football communities.”
MARYBRANDRICK, GENERAL MANAGERAT MARK HARROD LTD.
“The girls’ game is continuing to grow and more girls are playing.At Furrows, we felt this was an ideal opportunity to get involved and be part of something that can only grow and improve.”
ANTONYFROST, DIRECTOR & DEALER PRINCIPALAT FURROWS
Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so manyyoung people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FAGrassrootsAwards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.”
MATTWINFIELD, MCDONALD’S – ERASMUS RESTAURANTS.
“Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so manyyoung people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FAGrassrootsAwards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.”
You may be aware that the whole game system has retired, and your discipline has migrated across to the club portal.
Please see below from The FA.
It’s important that you view the guidance on how to administer your discipline, as late fees will automatically be applied if you do not create your own invoice after 14 days.
Guidance can be found here: Discipline : Grassroots Technology
ForallsafeguardingqueriescontactSamGriffiths,ShropshireFADesignatedSafeguardingOfficer sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com
The new season is underway, and it’s been fantastic to see fixtures kicking off across the county, bringing with them the familiar buzz of football - even if the weather hasn’t always played ball!
A huge well done to all leagues, coaches, volunteers, players and spectators for your ongoing dedication in getting the game going each week. Behind the scenes, we’re continuing our work to ensure every club and league is fully compliant with safeguarding regulations.
A special thank you to our incredible Club Welfare Officers who are working tirelessly on DBS checks, qualifications and more - your efforts are invaluable. We’ve got lots planned for the season ahead, starting with our first Club Welfare Officer Meeting, where we’re pleased to welcome the British Heart Foundation, who will be delivering essential CPR training.
We’ve also launched a new WhatsApp Community for Youth League Club Welfare Officers providing a space to connect, share and support each other. If you're not already part of it, please get in touch to be added. As the season progresses, the Shropshire FA team will be out and about conducting safeguarding visits.
Please remember, we're here to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. We’re looking forward to another brilliant season of football in Shropshire and remain committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment for everyone involved. NEW FOR 2025
WehavechangedthewaywedoDBSplease seetheguidancevideosbelowforallDBStobe completedthroughKnowYourPeople.
DBSGuidance|1.InitiatingaDBScheckClubs& Individuals
DBSGuidance|2.Completingtheapplication
Shropshire County FA has been recognised on thenationalstageafterbeingshortlistedforthe Special Recognition Award at the 2025 County FA Recognition Awards. The nomination celebrates the Association’s outstanding safeguarding work, led by Designated SafeguardingOfficer,SamGriffiths.
The awards, set to take place at Wembley Stadium on Thursday 6 November 2025, shine a spotlight on the most innovative projects and initiativesdeliveredbythe50CountyFAsacross England.
With over 250 nominations submitted this year, the shortlist reflects an ever-growing commitment to making grassroots football safe, inclusiveandaccessibleforall.
Shropshire FA CEO, Andy Weston, said, "Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. To have Sam Griffiths’ work recognised at thislevelisafantasticachievementandacredit tothededicationofourstaffandvolunteers."
Tim Foster, The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, added, "These awards celebrate the exceptional impact County FAs have on the game. Each shortlisted project demonstrates true innovation and helps ensure grassrootsfootballcontinuestothrive."
From Referee Development to Women & Girls, the twelve award categories highlight the breadthofworkshapingthefutureoffootball.
ForShropshireFA,thisnominationisnotonlyan honour but also a testament to the safe and welcoming environments it is creating across thecounty.
New weekly Booking System 1to-1 Time with Shropshire FA DSO Sam Griffiths
We're pleased to announce a new opportunity for Club Welfare Officers to book a dedicated appointment with our Designated Safeguarding Officer, Sam Griffiths, every Thursday afternoon between 1pm and 4pm.
These sessions are available face-to-face or via Microsoft Teams and are designed to offer a space for:
Asking any safeguarding-related questions
Getting support with club welfare matters
Having a general catch-up on a one-to-one basis
Whether you need advice, clarification, or simply a chat, this is your chance to connect directly with Sam in a confidential and supportive setting.
To book your appointment, please use the form below: https://forms.gle/KmKoySsFUU1rnzk56
The Shropshire FA is proud to introduce a brand new award replacing last season’s Fair Play Award - the Spirit of the Game Award. This award has been created to recognise and celebrate the positive contributions of individuals involved in grassroots football across the county. Whether it's a player showing exceptional sportsmanship, a coach inspiring respect and inclusion, a referee going above and beyond, or a volunteer making a difference behind the scenes, this award highlights those who truly embody the values of fair play, integrity, and community spirit. The Spirit of the Game Award is our way of saying thank you to those who make football more than just a game.
If you want to become our official partners of the Spirit of the Game Award please email: Andy.weston@shropshirefa.com
SamGriffiths-Designated SafeguardingOfficer
DesignatedSafeguardingOfficer(DSO)
SamGriffiths
sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07918764766
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
Iinfo@shropshirefa.com
https://www.shropshirefa.com/ @ShropshireFA
shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
TomWellings-Referees &Facilities
DeputyDesignatedSafeguardingOfficer (DDSO)
TomWellings
tom.wellings@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07719047701
ShropshireFA
AndyWeston-CEO& SeniorSafeguardingLead
SeniorSafeguardingLead(SSL)
AndyWeston
andy.weston@shropshirefa.com 01743362769
ZoeGriffiths-Headof FootballServices
DeputySeniorSafeguardingLead(DSSL)
ZoeGriffiths
zoe.griffiths@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07736956038
