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The standard for the future

24/12/2002

THE FOOTBALL Association has launched a pioneering scheme to improve amateur soccer.

The FA Charter Standard Community Club initiative, which follows on from the FA Charter Standard scheme, is aimed at developing the structure and quality of clubs at grassroots level.

Teams from across the country have been invited to join the scheme, following its launch in Manchester on Thursday 19 December.

In order to qualify, teams must ensure they provide opportunities for players, irrespective of age, gender, religion, or ability.

FA qualified coaches, first aiders, and child protection officers must also be provided.

FA national game director Steve Parkin, who grew up in Middleton, said: "FA Community Clubs are the cornerstone of the FA National Game strategy.

"Achieving FA Community Club status will not be easy, but it can be achieved by clubs who are committed to putting themselves at the heart of their local football communities, not only for existing participants, but for future generations too."

Eligible clubs will be offered a number of benefits, such as new equipment, a commemorative plaque, and opportunities for free tickets to England youth women's international matches.

Four teams, including Middleton Colts and Moston Juniors, have already signed up to programme.

They were met by England legend Sir Geoff Hurst, famed Manchester United coach Eric Harrison, and a host of FA dignitaries at the launch in Manchester County FA's headquarters in Chorlton.

Manchester-born Sir Geoff said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be involved with this initiative. I am really pleased to be back in Manchester, and seeing how well the game has come on since I moved away.

"The scheme will help re-establish English football as a leading figure, with the implementation of qualified coaches, and improved facilities.

"Another key objective is to give parents of young children the piece of mind of knowing that their kids are in good hands when they disappear to play football."

He expects to see an extra 500 community clubs by 2006.

He said: "We are striving to have 3,000 coaches on board over the next few years. We are confident that the scheme will attract local teams to develop their structures and help the game on a national level.

"Looking at the coaching methods that these clubs use, they aren't that dissimilar to West Ham United's during my professional days. It is something that everyone who becomes involved in can be proud of."

FA Charter Standard clubs have already used the scheme to attract grants and funding for development and improved facilities.

For more information, contact the Football Association on 020 7745 4545 or log onto www.TheFA.com.