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JANUARY 2026 ISSUE 39

This Months Content Team Message Happy New Year to all our readers! The new year has arrived and while several games have been postponed due to winter weather, there’s still plenty to look forward to this month and in the weeks ahead as the season kicks back into gear. In this edition, our Spotlight shines on the Essex Senior League, while our Features section includes a heartfelt piece on rising talent Tiego Grenho, the lens behind so many matchday moments, and a special Grassroots Magazine Review of 2025, reflecting on the incredible stories we’ve shared throughout the year. We’re also proud to spotlight WUKA, the innovative period wear brand championing inclusivity and breaking down barriers for women and girls in sport. Our regular contributions return with updates from the Essex Olympian League, Chelmsford Sunday League, the Essex County FA, and the latest from Heybridge Swifts FC.

Chelmsford Sunday League

Page 4

Kit Aid

Page 8

Essex Senior League

Page 16

Tiego Grenho

Page 20

WUKA

Page 28

Adult Leagues

Page 32

Youth Leagues

Page 33

Essex FA

Page 34

Grassroots 2025 Review

Page 48

Essex Olympian League

Page 52

A huge thank you to all our contributors, clubs, and readers for your continued support. To keep up with even more grassroots stories, matchday extras, and behind-the-scenes content, be sure to follow us on our socials links can be found just below this message.

Thanks, The Grassroots Team

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CHELMSFORD SUNDAY LEAGUE sponsored by Grassroots Magazine

Chelmsford Sunday League December 2025 Round-Up The Chelmsford Sunday League closed out 2025 with an actionpacked December across league and cup competitions. With Premier Division momentum shifting, Division One hotting up, and Division Three producing goals galore, the month delivered no shortage of drama. Here’s how it all unfolded.

Premier Division

Old Chelmsfordians and Atletico Trotters are neck and neck at the summit, with the former boasting a formidable +25 goal difference despite playing fewer games. Redstones continued to pose a threat, while Priory Sports remain consistent. Eagle & Hind couldn’t convert their early-season grit into December points, and MATES' defensive woes persist, shipping 40 goals in 9.

Division One

Waltham United (S) First remain leaders, closely pursued by The Rodings United. Danbury Athletic clocked up 10 matches already, keeping the pressure on from third. Heybridge Social and Burnham Ramblers continue to trade places midtable, while Woodham Radars and Billersports look to find consistent form.

Division Two

Great Baddow Reserves top the table on goal difference, but Maldon Saints are snapping at their heels with a huge +24 goal difference and 6 wins in 7. Writtle remain in the mix with 19 points, while Old Chelmsfordians Res. and QPH CSL round out the top five. Chelmer Village, though, remain rooted with a worrying -32 GD.

Cup Highlights

The cup competitions brought added flair to the festive fixture list.

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Division Three

.. Brooklands CSL top the division with 8 wins from 12, while Heybridge Social Reserves and Woodham Radars A aren’t far behind. The chasing pack is tightly bunched, but FC Vilomah and Witham Eagles are in danger of losing ground, struggling at the foot.

In the Premier League Cup, FFB took a statement 4–1 win over MATES, while Redstones and FFB played out a 2–2 thriller. The John Coward Cup saw Atletico edge Great Baddow, while Heybridge Social (S) First exited to a strong FFB display. In the Paul Gillott Trophy, Writtle hit nine past Beacon Hill Rovers and scraped a 3–2 win over East Hanningfield, while Great Baddow Reserves beat Maldon Town 3–2. There were goals aplenty across the divisions and competitions. https://www.chelmsfordsundayleague.org.uk/Csltables.html

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KITAID CORNER The national charity KitAid takes your unwanted kit & equipment and gives it a new home in parts of the world where the game of football is loved, but participation is held : back back by lack of access to resources. Happy New Year to the world of football We enter a New Year full of hope that the commitment to extending the life of kit & equipment will be sustained, after a record breaking 2025. A record 106,081 items of kit & equipment were donated last year. This takes the total items donated since 1998 to 1,232,027, raising expectations for passing 1.25m early in this New Year Kit donations over the last year reached 26 countries across 4 continents:

Check out the attached KitAid video review of the year at https://x.com/KitAid/status/2003390130774769803?s=20 Look out for Hashtag United Youth towards the end of the video.

In the final month of last year kit donations included: Braintree Blue Devils Basketball, Hornchurch, Porters Soccability.

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Essex Caring to Share

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Algarve Walking Football Club, Portugal Destination Okere, Nigeria

For those of you following the story of the East Algarve Walking Football kit donation through GM October (p10) and December (p12) we can now bring you news of its arrival in a new home extending its life and bringing joy in Nigeria. First leaving Portugal in October, with Steve travelling over 2,000kms to the UK to see family over Christmas: .

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'Going the Extra Kilometre' East

The donation was passed on by Steve in Essex for boxing up in November. The Boxed kit was then handed over by KitAid founder, Derrick Williams MBE to Anthony Iwere to transfer the donation on through his Charitable work. The Kit arrived in time for Christmas, the most special gift originally from Portugal arrived with Daudu United Football Club, Okere, Warri South LGA, Delta State, Nigeria. If you wanted to catch up with the Club, they are open to contact from you for games out there in Portugal. You can read more about the Club at East Algarve Walking Football - all the WF information in the sunny Algarve

Anthony Iwere and Derrick Williams MBE (Founder of KitAid)

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Do get involved with KitAid: ... Extend the life of your unwanted kit too If your club is ready to act on the commitment to 'reuse' and 'recycle' kit and with it share kit & equipment, then KitAid is here for that. You can donate complete or part complete kits, training wear, boots and a variety of equipment (from footballs to training cones, from corner flags to samba goals). Maybe you have just a few shirts or items of equipment left over from a kit change. Every item makes a difference. Your donation of kit can make a huge impact in some of the poorest and most troubled parts of the world. The projects with whom we work use the power of football, and sport generally, to support very practical initiatives to improve health, supporting education & skills development to increase employability, promoting inclusivity for those who are otherwise excluded in society and working to keep young & older people safe, be they orphans, street children or adults facing abuse. It is why we say of our work, "It's more than just a shirt ... " If you can please look to: 1. donate unwanted kit & equipment – email KitAid at kitaidcharity@gmail.com or locally barrie.2014@yahoo.co.uk 2. consider advertising KitAid at your ground, in your programme or on social media 3. share skills (promotion, marketing or design), experience (accessing relevant grant aid) or provide access to resources (storage, transport or venues for sorting kit & equipment) We need your help: We are a small charity doing big things, but running exclusively on the effort of volunteers, we urgently need more volunteers, access to a van and more storage. Volunteers needed: to help collect kit donations from local Clubs. You do as many collections or as few as you want.

Transport needed for bigger collections: if you have a van to share, we need help collecting the bigger donations and transferring them to storage. Storage needed: we need more storage - dry, clean, secure & accessible - anything from a shed to a small container. If you want to know more about joining the KitAid team of volunteers, or can provide storage or transport, or just want to help at Boxing Up, please contact KitAid Founder Derrick Williams MBE at kitaidcharity@gmail.com

Smiley Charity Film Awards We would also welcome your support for the KitAid submission to the Smiley Charity Film Awards. Our submission appears in the under £100k category - the title is the 'Harry Mnisi Sports Day'. You can access permission to vote for the KitAid entry at https://smileycharityfilmawards.com/2026 /films/category/0-100000

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More Than A League: The Story of the Essex Senior Football League More Than a League: The Story of the Essex Senior Football League On a blustery Saturday afternoon in Essex, as scarves are wrapped tight and floodlights flicker into life, there is a familiar ritual playing out across towns and villages. From Tilbury to Stanway, from Canvey Island to Walthamstow, the Essex Senior Football League continues to do what it has done for more than half a century: provide the beating heart of non-league football. Founded in 1971, the Essex Senior Football League (ESL) has long been a proving ground — not just for clubs chasing promotion, but for players, managers, referees and volunteers who keep the grassroots game alive.

A League is Born The early 1970s were a period of reorganisation in English non-league football. Ambitious clubs across Essex needed a higher standard of competition than local feeder leagues could offer, and the answer was the formation of the Essex Senior League. The inaugural season featured just nine clubs, including names that still resonate today: Billericay Town, Witham Town, Heybridge Swifts and Saffron Walden Town. It was modest in scale, but bold in intent. The league quickly established itself as a serious step on the football ladder.

Climbing the Pyramid Today, the ESL sits at Step 5 of the National League System, a crucial junction between county football and the semi-professional game. Promotion out of the league — typically into the Isthmian League — has always been earned the hard way: points on the pitch, standards off it. In its early decades, promotion was rare and often informal, but by the 1980s the pathway was clearer. Clubs like Heybridge Swifts, who won three titles in quick succession, showed what was possible with ambition, organisation and a bit of Essex grit. The league steadily expanded, growing to around 20 clubs, drawing teams not just from Essex but from neighbouring areas of East London and Hertfordshire. With that growth came increased competitiveness — and reputations were forged.

Silverware and Stories Every season produces a champion, but the ESL has never been just about the title. The Essex Senior League Challenge Cup — later renamed the Errington Challenge Cup — has provided its own drama, often throwing up giant-killings and midweek classics under the lights. Over the years, clubs such as Basildon United, Bowers & Pitsea, Great Wakering Rovers and Witham Town have enjoyed sustained success, while others have used the league as a launchpad before moving on to bigger stages.

For all its local identity, the ESL has brushed shoulders with footballing fame. Future England stars and top-flight scorers have passed through its grounds, including Jimmy Greaves, Kerry Dixon, Alan Brazil and Dwight Gayle — reminders that every journey starts somewhere. Yet the true stars of the league are often the unsung ones: the groundsman who arrives at dawn, the club secretary juggling emails after work, the volunteer running the tea hut in freezing rain.

Surviving Change

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Famous Names, Humble Grounds

The league has weathered its share of storms. A brief name change in the late 1980s, fluctuating club numbers, and more recently the unprecedented disruption of COVID-19, which saw two seasons abandoned entirely. But as ever, the ESL adapted. When football returned, so did the crowds — smaller perhaps, but no less passionate. Recent champions such as Walthamstow, Enfield, Tilbury and Stanway Rovers have continued the league’s tradition of renewal and resilience.

Why the Essex Senior League Matters In an era dominated by TV deals and global brands, the Essex Senior Football League remains gloriously grounded. It is where young players learn the realities of men’s football, where clubs measure success in sustainability as much as silverware, and where communities still recognise the faces on the pitch. It may not grab headlines, but for those who know, the ESL represents football in its purest form — competitive, local, imperfect, and utterly essential. On cold nights and sunny afternoons alike, the Essex Senior Football League goes on. And English football is better for it.

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The Essex Senior League December Review:

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A Festive Feast of Football

As the calendar turns to 2026, the Essex Senior League reflects on a December that shifted the landscape of the Premier Division. From title-race twists to a revitalized relegation battle, the final month of 2025 provided the high-octane drama fans have come to expect. The Title Race: Little Oakley Under Pressure

Little Oakley remains the team to beat, heading into the New Year at the top with 43 points. However, their December was far from perfect. The "Wickers" of Hackney Wick delivered the shock of the season just before Christmas, securing a gritty 2-1 away victory at the Memorial Ground. This result, combined with a heavy 4-1 defeat to Barking earlier in the month, has blown the title race wide open. Waiting in the wings are Soul Tower Hamlets, who sit just one point behind with a game in hand. Despite a bruising 4-0 loss to Great Wakering Rovers, their consistency remains a major threat to Oakley’s ambitions.

The Mid-Table Surge and Top Performers Great Wakering Rovers (39 pts) and Barking (37 pts) enjoyed fruitful Decembers, cementing their status as serious contenders. Meanwhile, Saffron Walden Town continues to be led by the clinical Kaleel Green, who ends the year as the league's top marksman with 17 goals. He is followed closely by Woodford Town’s Ollie Sotoyinbo (15 goals) and Buckhurst Hill’s Harry Lusher (11 goals).

The Great Escape: Hullbridge Sports Ascendant Perhaps the story of the month is the resurgence of Hullbridge Sports. Under the guidance of Marc Harrison, "The Bridge" recorded four consecutive wins, including a massive 6-2 away victory at Athletic Newham and a hard-fought 3-2 comeback against Halstead Town. This run has pulled them clear of the bottom two, leaving West Essex and Frenford with a mountain to climb in 2026.

Cup Glory and Milestones FA Vase:

Benfleet FC made history by securing a spot in the Fourth Round after a monumental victory, where they will face Punjab United.

Attendance:

Halstead Town continues to lead the league in support, hosting the season's highest attendance of 306 against Sporting Bengal United.

grassroots magazine The FA Vase: Benfleet Leads a Record-Breaking Charge History Boys: Benfleet Aim for the Final 16 as Punjab United Visit Woodside By ESL Media Team Benfleet FC find themselves in uncharted territory this month as they prepare for the biggest game in the club’s history. For the first time ever, the “Fleet" have reached the Fourth Round Proper of the Isuzu FA Vase and the excitement around Woodside Stadium is reaching a fever pitch.

After a clinical 2-0 victory away at Dereham Town in December which was secured by goals from Mason Shave and stand in captain on the day, Sonny Hartman - Benfleet earned their place among the final 32 teams in the country. Now, they are just four wins away from a dream trip to Wembley Stadium.

The Challenge Ahead On Saturday, 17th January, Benfleet will host Kent-based side Punjab United. The visitors, who play in the Southern Counties East Football League (SCEFL) Premier Division, are also enjoying a stellar campaign, having edged past Burnham 2-1 in the previous round. Punjab United are known for their resilience and community spirit, but they’ll be walking into a fortress that is more united than ever given they are undefeated at home this season in the league. Chairman Dan Wright said “I am so proud to have made it through to the fourth round of the FA Vase. We’d already set a club record for getting through to round three, and we’ve smashed through that record to get into round four. We just want to keep the run going – we never want it to end… until Wembley of course! The big story for us this season is how our amazing local community have got behind us in even greater numbers than last year – we took almost 150 fans with us to Dereham Town in Round 3. That community spirit which runs from the committee, through the first team – many of whom have been with the club for approaching a decade now – right through the entire football club and includes our incredible local community in Benfleet that get behind us in such numbers every week, is what has made this run possible. And we just hope we can keep it going a bit longer!”

Key Match Info Fixture: Benfleet vs. Punjab United Competition: Isuzu FA Vase Fourth Round Proper Date: Saturday, 17th January 2026 Kick-off: 15:00 Venue: Woodside Stadium A Record-Breaking Season Regardless of the result on the 17th, this squad has already cemented its legacy. Having never previously progressed past the Second Round, this year’s team has "smashed through" club records. With the home crowd behind them, Benfleet will look to keep the dream alive and put the Essex Senior League on the map in the national spotlight once again.

Come down to Woodside and be part of history!

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Chelmsford City FC photographer Tiego Grenho has been named Best Non-League Photographer at the Non-League Bible Awards 2025, receiving national recognition at just 17 years old. The award celebrates excellence across grassroots and non-league football, recognising photographers who capture the emotion, passion, and stories that define the game. Tiego’s achievement highlights not only his talent behind the camera, but also his professionalism, dedication, and remarkable work ethic since joining Chelmsford City FC. Balancing college studies with long journeys to matches, early mornings, late nights editing, and challenging weather conditions, Tiego has shown exceptional commitment throughout the season. His photography has played a vital role in showcasing Chelmsford City FC across competitions capturing key moments, matchday atmosphere, and the character of the club on and off the pitch. But behind the lens lies a powerful story of personal sacrifice and resilience.

A Mother’s Pride Tiego’s journey has been followed closely by his mother, who shared: “Even though I’m not there in person, my heart has been with Tiego every single step of this journey. From afar, I have witnessed the sacrifices that often go unseen the long journeys, early mornings, late nights editing, and the determination it takes to keep going. Watching him grow through this experience has been incredibly emotional. He has faced challenges and moments of doubt, yet he never gave up. Instead, he showed resilience, discipline, and belief in himself. Seeing his work recognised at a national level fills me with pride beyond words. This award represents far more than recognition it reflects courage, sacrifice, and a deep love for what he does. I am immensely proud of the young man and photographer he is becoming, and I truly believe this is only the beginning of an extraordinary journey.”

Tiego Grenho: The Heart Behind the Lens 20

Support and Recognition Tiego also recognises and values those who have supported him along the way giving special thanks to Aveley FC, where his journey began, and Chelmsford City Women, alongside the players, coaches, and staff at Chelmsford City FC who have trusted him to tell the club’s story through his photography. This award represents more than individual success — it marks an important milestone in a career that continues to inspire, while shining a light on the dedication, quality, and spirit within non-league football.

“Tiego has been an invaluable part of Chelmsford City FC, capturing the heart and soul of our club through his incredible photography. His dedication, eye for detail, and passion for the game truly set him apart.”Spencer Gore, Owner/Chairman, Chelmsford City FC

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Words from the Touchline

“Since joining the women’s first team at just 15, Tiego has gone from strength to strength. This award proves that all the hours volunteering and working hard are paying off. ”Emma Rushen, Volunteer, Chelmsford City Women & Girls FC “From minute one his professionalism, dedication, and abilities shone through. An inspiration to many upand-coming photographers. ”Chris Cooper, Founder, United for Charity “His photograph of Dom Odusanya brought our ‘Captain’ Pale Ale can to life — he’s played a key role in our collaboration with the club.” Daniel Harvey, Director, Radio City Beer Works “His photography equals or surpasses many of us twice his age. Tiego is destined for the top. ”Nashy Gareth, Photographer, Hashtag United “Tiego doesn’t just take pictures, he captures the emotion and meaning behind moments. An outstanding young talent. ”Wayne Franklin, Goalkeeper Coach “His work ethic, professionalism, and talent are remarkable. Every photo tells a story. ”Luke Watts, Managing Director, Sports Coaching Specialists “He came to Aveley with little more than a camera and a quiet belief. What he gave us was far more — he captured our soul. ”Xav Burrell, Aveley FC Supporter

Looking Ahead Tiego’s story is one of talent, belief, and a deep love for the game. At just 17, he has already carved out a place of respect in non-league football and beyond — and as this award proves, his journey is only just beginning.

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Chelmsford City’s Movember Social Evening At Chelmsford City FC, football once again proved it’s about far more than what happens on the pitch. On Friday night, more than fifty men of all ages gathered at the CCFC Clubhouse for a Men’s Social Evening an event built around one simple but powerful message: it’s good to talk. Hosted by Chris Reeve from CCFC Walking Football, the evening was part of the club’s Movember campaign in partnership with Nuffield Health. It brought together walking footballers, coaches, players, and supporters for an evening that mixed laughter, honesty, and reflection reminding everyone that the biggest strength sometimes lies in speaking up.

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Men Talking

The night began with a talk from Peter Pietrzak, Consultant Urological Surgeon at Nuffield Health, who gave an open, accessible insight into men’s health from prostate awareness to practical advice on regular check-ups and self-care. His calm, informative approach set the tone for what followed: real conversation, without the filters. Next up was Mike, a long-standing member of Chelmsford City’s Walking Football group, who shared his personal health journey with courage and warmth. His story struck a chord an honest reminder that connection and community can make all the difference. Then it was over to the players. Tom Lapslie and Joe Grimwood spoke candidly about the mental and physical challenges that come with injury, while Louis Dunne, now part of the Chelmsford City Community Foundation, reflected on his own path through recovery and reinvention after professional setbacks. Each voice added another layer to the same truth: none of us are immune to struggle, but openness can lighten the load. After the talking came the football. Outside under the lights, six teams took part in a Walking Football tournament including the Chelmsford City Walking Football team, a club staff and coaches’ side (featuring owner Spencer Gore, assistant manager John White, goalkeeper coach Justin Moseley, Head of Medical Arron Benstead, and kitman Marc Chatters), local team FC Vilomah a remarkable group of bereaved dads and families brought together through football and several supporter teams. The competition was lively but full of good spirit, with the coaches’ team eventually lifting the trophy, led by Marc Chatters to well-earned cheers. Back inside, guests tucked into food from Shwings, while representatives from Mind and Nuffield Health offered support, advice, and information on physical and mental wellbeing. Chelmsford City’s Walking Football community is at the heart of this movement. With over 170 members including players well into their seventies and eighties — it’s part of one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, proving that football truly is a game for life. Among them are the ‘Bandy Boys’, whose distinctive striped socks aren’t just a symbol of prostate cancer awareness they’re a sign that you can talk to someone who knows what you’re going through.

What stood out most about the evening wasn’t the competition or the turnout it was the feeling. Men from different generations talking, listening, and laughing together. No pressure. No judgement. Just honesty and connection. The event was more than a Movember moment; it was a genuine step forward in creating a culture of openness around men’s health. Plans are already in motion for a regular Men’s Social Club at the Chelmsford City Clubhouse another way to keep that same spirit alive all year round. To support Chelmsford City’s Movember campaign and men’s health initiatives, visit Movember 2025 - JustGiving

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Great Baddow FC & Mid-Essex League: More Than a Game

On a Saturday afternoon in Great Baddow, football is more than ninety minutes. It is history, routine, and community—woven together by a club that has stood alongside the grassroots game for well over a century. Founded in 1898, Great Baddow Football Club emerged at the same moment as the Mid-Essex Football League, a coincidence that speaks volumes about the expansion of organised football in England at the end of the 19th century. While the professional game looked toward stadiums and league tables, clubs like Great Baddow laid the foundations of football at its most local level. From early village pitches to the modern recreation ground the club calls home today, Great Baddow FC has been a constant presence in Essex Saturday football. Like the Mid-Essex League itself, the club has survived war, economic change, and the shifting priorities of modern life. Seasons were paused for two world wars, resumed during post-war recovery, and later adapted to new challenges such as rising costs and evolving league structures. The Mid-Essex League has long provided a competitive and respected platform for clubs in central Essex. Sitting within the English football pyramid, it has acted as both a proving ground for ambitious sides and a reliable home for community clubs. Great Baddow FC’s relationship with the league reflects that balance—periods of success and promotion interspersed with consolidation and rebuilding, always grounded in sustainability rather than short-term gains. Off the pitch, the club’s importance is just as clear. Generations of local players have worn its colours, from young adults beginning their football journey to veterans extending it. Volunteers, family members, and supporters have kept the club alive through changing times, maintaining a sense of identity that transcends results. In the modern era, as grassroots football faces renewed pressures, Great Baddow FC remains a quiet example of why local football still matters. It provides structure, friendship, and tradition—week in, week out—within a league that has done the same since the Victorian age. More than 125 years on, Great Baddow FC and the Mid-Essex League continue their journey together. Not flashy, not famous—but essential. Because at this level, football isn’t just played. It’s passed down. CLUB HISTORY SIDEBAR Great Baddow Football Club at a Glance

Founded: 1898 Location: Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex Home Ground: Great Baddow Recreation Ground Colours: Traditionally black and white League Football: o Mid-Essex Football League (founding-era participant) o Periods competing in the Essex Olympian League Notable Achievements: o Multiple Mid-Essex League titles and cup successes o Winners of competitions including the Mid-Essex Cup and other county-level honours Teams Fielded: o Saturday First Team o Reserve / Second teams (historically) o Veterans’ sides Club Identity: A long-standing grassroots club built on local players, volunteers, and tradition—balancing competitive ambition with community roots for over a century.

WITH GREAT BADDOW FC New Players Wanted – All Positions

Great Baddow Football Club is recruiting players for the upcoming season. Founded in 1898, we are one of Essex’s longestrunning grassroots clubs and a proud member of the Mid-Essex Football League.

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PLAY YOUR FOOTBALL

Whether you’re returning to football, new to the area, or simply looking for a competitive Saturday side with a good atmosphere, we’d love to hear from you. What We Offer • Saturday football in the Mid-Essex League • Friendly but competitive environment • Experienced coaches and organised setup • Well-maintained home ground in Great Baddow, Chelmsford • Strong club culture built on respect, commitment, and enjoyment Who We’re Looking For • Committed and reliable players • All positions considered • Positive attitude on and off the pitch • Veterans welcome (separate vets setup available) Training & Home Matches • Based at Great Baddow Recreation Ground • Pre-season sessions available now

Get In Touch Contact Garth - 07525491859 Join a club with over 125 years of history and be part of its future.

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#TackleAnything We believe periods shouldn't be a barrier to sport and yet the facts, particularly surrounding young girls’ participation in sport, are alarming. We are committed to ensuring the barriers involving menstruation and sport are removed and we are proud to work with a number of organisations to #tackleperiods in sport

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ESSEX FA SQUAD GIRLS: DELIVER NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIRLS AGED 12+ Essex Clubs Invited to Launch Inclusive Football Sessions Essex clubs are being encouraged to help expand their inclusive football opportunities for girls aged 12 and above, with funding available to support the delivery of new ‘Squad Girls’ programmes locally. Designed as a natural follow-on from the popular Wildcats initiative, Squad Girls offers fun, pressure-free football for teenage girls in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Sessions last one hour and focus on enjoyment, friendship and confidence-building rather than formal competition or structured weekly fixtures. With a commitment of just six weeks of delivery, the programme provides an ideal opportunity for clubs to attract and retain female players who may not wish to join a traditional team. If sessions prove popular, clubs are encouraged to continue beyond the initial period. Clubs who have previously delivered Squad Girls, and are considering a re-launch, are also invited to get in touch. The need for more recreational opportunities is clear, with dropout rates among girls in this age group still noticeably high. Squad Girls aims to reverse this trend by offering an accessible, flexible and supportive football experience - one which keeps girls engaged in the game for longer. Help to grow the pathway for girls’ football across Essex! Clubs interested in applying can do so through the ‘Book Football’ platform via the link at www.essexfa.com. You can also interact with the Essex County FA on social media.

Teenage girls deserve fun, friendly and pressure-free football. Clubs across #Essex can now apply to deliver #SquadGirls sessions for ages 12+. Funding available! https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #GirlsFootball #FootballForAll Looking to grow your club’s female pathway? #SquadGirls offers a perfect six-week programme for girls who want to play socially, not competitively. More info: https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #WeAreInclusive #TeenGirlsFootball #LetGirlsPlay #Essex clubs - help us to create more spaces where girls aged 12+ can enjoy football on their own terms. Apply to run #SquadGirls sessions today! https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #GrassrootsFootball #InclusiveSport #GirlsCan

grassroots magazine Already delivered #SquadGirls before? Thinking of a re-launch? We’d love to hear from you! Find out more: https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #CommunityFootball #FemaleFootball One hour. Six weeks. A welcoming, enjoyable space for teenage girls to play football without pressure. That’s #SquadGirls. Apply here: https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #RecreationalFootball #GirlsInSport #ActiveEssex Dropout rates among girls aged 12+ remain high - but #SquadGirls is helping to change that. Join the movement by hosting sessions at your club. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #KeepGirlsPlaying #SportForAll #PositivePathways If your club wants to attract new female players in a relaxed environment, #SquadGirls is the perfect gateway. Learn more: https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girlsupdate #GirlsFootballMatters #FootballCommunity #InclusiveOpportunities Friendship. Fun. Confidence. That’s what #SquadGirls is all about. #Essex clubs - bring this brilliant programme to your community! https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #EmpowerGirls #FootballJourney No weekly fixtures. No pressure. Just football, enjoyment and growth. #Essex clubs can still apply to deliver #SquadGirls sessions. More details: https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/11/squad-girls-update #RecreationSport #GirlsDevelopment #FootballFun Help expand the pathway for #GirlsFootball across #Essex by launching #SquadGirls at your club. Apply via Book Football today! Squad Girls: Deliver New Opportunities for Girls Aged 12+ - Essex FA #GrowTheGame #WomensAndGirlsFootball #SquadGirlsEssex

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ESSEX FA ESSEX FA

A ‘Journey to Inclusion’ Club Training Event will be taking place on Monday 9th February 2026 from 6:30-9:30pm at Colchester United FC’s JobServe Community Stadium, designed to help grassroots clubs to grow their disability football provision. This interactive, three-hour session will feature expert local tutors who will guide clubs through practical steps to overcome barriers, share best practice examples and explore resources to develop a proactive disability action plan. Clubs who engaged with the Journey to Inclusion programme during the 2023/24 season saw an 87% increase in disability provision - three times the growth compared to clubs who didn’t participate. For those who attended the workshops and accessed support from a Disability Ambassador, this figure rose to an incredible 138%. This event is a key date for any club looking to start, or expand, their inclusive opportunities. Essex County FA Football Development Officer, Harry Moreton, explained: “This provides a great chance for clubs to network with like-minded organisations and to grow their inclusive offering. I look forward to meeting many faces there and supporting clubs on their journey to inclusion.” Secure your ‘Journey to Inclusion’ Club Training Event place now by following this link. You can also interact with us on social media.

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Ready to grow your club’s #DisabilityFootball offer? Join our ‘Journey to Inclusion’ Club Training Event on Monday 9th February 2026 at @ColU_Official! Journey to Inclusion: Club Training Event This February - Essex FA #DisabilityFootball #Inclusion #GrassrootsFootball

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ESSEX FA GRASSROOTS VOLUNTEERS EARN ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME WEMBLEY EXPERIENCE Essex-Based Recreational Providers Win ‘Book Football’ Platform Competition Five ‘Book Football’ Providers in Essex earned an unforgettable opportunity to ‘Play on the Pitch’ at Wembley Stadium connected by EE in December, recognising their outstanding commitment to offering recreational football opportunities within their communities. The winners were selected through a prize draw after consistently listing sessions and registering participants via The FA’s Book Football platform. Their efforts have helped to widen access to recreational football across Essex, complementing their regular competitive programmes and supporting the growth of the local grassroots game. This initiative highlights the vital role that providers play in increasing participation and ensuring that football is accessible, enjoyable and welcoming for all. The chance to step onto the national stadium pitch was fitting recognition for their dedication. The experience also formed part of The FA’s ‘Thank You’ campaign, which has already seen more than 3,000 thank you messages sent to volunteers across the country. Volunteers changed in the England dressing rooms, wore personalised kits, saw their names and thank you messages displayed on the big screen and had the occasion captured by a dedicated photography and video team. The exclusive reward was part of the ‘England Football Family’ programme, a free initiative created to recognise and celebrate grassroots volunteers who help the game thrive week in, week out. Marina Winter of Flitch United FC was rewarded for the club’s ‘Just Play’ provision, and she reacted: “Our club ethos is ‘one club, one family’. Just Play, and the support we have received from Emma Burden at the Essex County FA, have enabled us to now provide footballing opportunities for our ladies, hence now forming an integral part of our club family.” “To be recognised for our achievements is just incredible, and means so much to all those involved but, importantly, to our ladies. A big thank you to all! To attend Wembley with our Coach, Kerrie, and players, Ashleigh and Liah, was just what dreams are made of. A truly memorable night, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you to all involved - these were very special memories which will be with us forever.” Essex County FA Football Development Officer, Emma Burden, described the recognition as a proud moment for local clubs: “It’s absolutely brilliant to see five of the Essex clubs recognised for their hard work in driving the recreational programmes forward. What a brilliant opportunity and, hopefully, a memory created for life. The chance to play on the turf at Wembley is something football lovers all dream of.”

Essex’s ‘Play on the Pitch’ Winners Zoe Eldridge (Valley Green FC), Marina Winter (Flitch United FC), Keith Di Palma (Tigers JFC), Emma Burden (Springfield Girls FC), Ian Clifford (St Clere’s FC) Grassroots volunteers from #Essex enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to Play on the Pitch at @wembleystadium A huge reward for outstanding commitment to the recreational game. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day @EnglandFootball @wembleystadium @EE

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Clubs interested in expanding their recreational offer - including Wildcats, Squad Girls, Just Play or Comets sessions - or those seeking help uploading opportunities (or registering participants) to the ‘Book Football’ platform, are encouraged to contact their local Essex County FA Football Development Officer. To explore, or apply for, any of the Book Football programmes, visit: https://book.englandfootball.com.

Five #Essex-based ‘Book Football’ providers earned an unforgettable @wembleystadium experience after consistently listing sessions and registering players Their dedication is helping grow the grassroots game. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day #RecreationalFootball providers play a vital role in widening access to the game across #Essex This @wembleystadium reward celebrated those making football welcoming, enjoyable and inclusive #ForAll. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day @FA @EnglandFootball This ‘Play on the Pitch’ experience formed part of @FA’s ‘Thank You’ campaign. More than 3,000 messages of thanks have already been sent to volunteers nationwide. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-onthe-pitch-day From changing in the @England dressing rooms to seeing their names on the big screen #Essex volunteers were treated like pros at @wembleystadium. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitchday @EnglandFootball Marina Winter of @FlitchunitedFC was recognised for the club’s #JustPlay provision, helping to grow opportunities for women and girls A truly memorable @wembleystadium experience. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day ‘Our club ethos is: one club, one family.’ A brilliant example of how #RecreationalFootball brings communities together across #Essex. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day @EnglandFootball @FA Emma Burden praised the hard work of #Essex clubs in driving recreational programmes forward A proud moment and a memory created for life on the @wembleystadium turf. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day Congratulations to #Essex’s ‘Play on the Pitch’ winners Including volunteers from @ValleyGreenYFC @FlitchunitedFC @TigersJFC and more. Your commitment to #GrassrootsFootball is inspiring. https://www.essexfa.com/news/2025/dec/23/volunteer-play-on-the-pitch-day @EnglandFootball Want to expand your #RecreationalFootball offer or get support using the ‘Book Football’ platform? Contact your local Football Development Officer to get started. Grassroots Volunteers Earn Once-in-a-Lifetime Wembley Experience - Essex FA

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HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS F.C Hi all and a Very Happy New Year to you all and your families and hope you had a great time over the festive season. Obviously, been a lack of games due to Christmas break, but the games we did have, there were a lot of positive results to keep our teams on track for, hopefully some silver ware at the end of the season. We at Heybridge Swifts are fully committed to creating a clear pathway for our teams at all ages to progress and hopefully get them in and around our first team. We had had some success so far, but we want to increase the chances for all to improve and have a chance to go higher. Taking this into consideration, we are working closely with a step 6 team, so any of our boys that need to get to see what men's football is like, we can give them a chance to shine and then hopefully progress further with our club. This is an exciting time and one we have been working on for some time, and now the right opportunity has presented itself it gives the right progression and pathway that we have been working on.

We are also working on a programme with local schools, to try and bring in some girls, and hopefully be able to have some girl's teams within the Swifts, again this is working progress, and something we can update you further down the line.

That just leaves me to say thank you once again to all GRASS ROOTS MAGAZINE for their continued support, and we look forward to catching up with you all at your next visit to our ground.

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It is also great to see our youngsters taking a great interest in our 1st, they come and are mascots and get the chance to nominate a man of the match and present the trophy as well as getting signatures of the players.

Steve Spreadbury

Heybridge Swifts Chairman

PLAYER SPONSORSHIP IS AVAILABLE FROM ONLY £100, NAME IN PROGRAMME WITH YOUR PLAYER PHOTO WITH YOUR PLAYER AT THE END OF THE SEASON. CONTACT CHRIS FOR MORE INFORMATION HSFCDAINES@AOL.COM

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Would you like to get involved? There are lots of ways you can get involved from sponsorship opportunity’s, fan ownership, become a volunteer or if you just want to read more about our plan, please click the links below to find out more.

Sponsorship Opportunity Partner with our 100% fan owned football club by taking up one of our sponsorship packages. We have several options available. CLICK HERE

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grassroots magazine 46

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Grassroots 2025 Review January

We began the year with features on Stanway Pegasus and Emerson & Upminster, sharing their stories amid a cold snap that paused much of the county's football. We also announced a partnership with Changing Room Essentials to offer discounts to readers.

February

This month saw spotlight features on Witham Town’s revitalised women’s setup and a look at Panathlon, celebrating inclusive sport in Essex. Clubs, schools, and volunteers all played a part in a vibrant February issue.

March

March brought international flavour as Southend United’s Community Foundation shared experiences from a trip to the San Siro, while our spotlight shone on the Essex & Suffolk Border League and Benfleet FC. We also introduced our FA Cup ‘Around the Grounds’ series.

April

In April, we highlighted the local game’s link to the professional level, showcasing grassroots stories from former West Ham, Leyton Orient, and Colchester United players. Local coaches, volunteers, and teams were also featured.

May

The May issue celebrated the title-winning Danbury & Bicknacre U10 Royals, and spotlighted the work of YoungMinds, supported by the club. Our Around the Grounds series continued and we covered a range of local league updates.

June

Our mid-year issue was packed: we joined Essex teams on a special tour of AC Milan’s training ground and heard from trailblazing volunteers across youth and adult leagues. FA Cup excitement simmered in the background.

July

We spotlighted Writtle FC’s development pathway and Brentwood Town Youth’s efforts to empower young female players. A standout interview with Rosi Webb offered insights into women’s football culture and progress.

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June

August

This issue included a bumper Chelmsford Sunday League preview, new club profiles, and our FA Cup coverage continued with spotlights on local ties. A big month for new beginnings and summer tournaments.

September

Football was back in full swing! We featured Hedingham United Ladies, launched our FA Cup Around the Grounds series, and highlighted the Accidental Managers project. Our regular league coverage returned with new energy.

October

We interviewed Tom Maurer, the rising goalkeeper signing for Braintree Town, and showcased Heybridge Swifts’ latest developments. Southend United Community Foundation, Olympian League, and Chelmsford Sunday League updates rounded out a packed issue.

November

Our FA Cup coverage centred on Maldon & Tiptree, Chelmsford City v Braintree Town, and Brentwood Town. We also featured grassroots photographer Tiego Grenho, and highlighted youth club efforts such as Danbury & Bicknacre U10 Royals’ support for YoungMinds.

December

To close the year, we spotlighted Atletico Trotters and long-standing club Great Baddow. We featured the Essex County Girls League and KitAid’s Boxing Up Day. In FA Cup coverage, we returned to Chelmsford City – the last Essex team standing. League round-ups included the Essex Senior League’s debut, plus Olympian League and Chelmsford Sunday League updates.

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Maldon Tiptree Football Club

Stanway Rovers Football Club

Billericay Town F.C. - Wikipedia

Harlow Town F.C. - Wikipedia Witham Town F.C. - Wikipedia

Southend United F.C. - Wikipedia

ALL THE ESSEX NONLEAGUE GROUNDS WE HAVE BEEN TO THIS SEASON We will add to this page as we visit more grounds this season. Check out some great interviews and videos we have captured along the way, available Now across our social media channels. SUPPORT LOCAL FOOTBALL!!

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ESSEX OLYMPIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE December 25 Round Up Premier Division

December proved an action-packed month in the EOFL Premier Division, with goals galore and some eyecatching results. Barnston produced the shock of the month by thrashing Wakering Sports 6–2 away from home. Forward Lewis Sonnex led the charge with a hat-trick in that game, lifting Barnston well clear of the relegation zone. Harold Wood Athletic also enjoyed a memorable victory as veteran player-manager Charlie Portway rolled back the years – he fired a hat-trick (including a penalty) to secure a 4–2 win over Leigh Ramblers. League leaders Catholic United showed no signs of slowing down. The champions ground out a 2–1 victory at Runwell Sports thanks to a brace from Luc Harpon, and that result extended Catholic’s cushion at the summit to roughly 14 points heading into the holidays. At the other end of the table, Herongate Athletic were held to a 1–1 draw by bottom club Harold Hill. A goal from Paul Morris earned Herongate a point, but Harold Hill remain rooted to the foot of the standings – six points adrift of safety – despite spirited efforts.

Division One

In Division One, Canning Town emphatically underlined their title ambitions with a record-breaking performance. They obliterated Toby 9–0 in an away fixture, a result that sent shockwaves through the league. Super-sub Jack Taylor came off the bench to score five of those goals for Canning Town, spearheading the biggest win of the season so far. Buoyed by that huge victory, Canning Town ended December four points clear at the top of the table. Second-placed Hutton Reserves kept up the chase (with goals from Ethan McAllister and Jack Wilmott in their final game of the year) and remain in the hunt. Leigh Town remain very much in the promotion hunt after a strong month. The Leigh side earned a 4–1 home win over bottom club Toby, highlighted by a terrific hat-trick from Aaron Tyler. Kelvedon Hatch climbed into the top four with a solid 3–1 victory against May & Baker ‘A’, showcasing their balanced attack. Meanwhile, Catholic United Reserves had a day to remember as they thumped Basildon Town Reserves 5–1 at home. Returning striker Michael Clark marked his comeback with a brace in that game, joining Ali Serhouni and others on the scoresheet.

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Division Two saw its front-runners assert themselves heading into the break. Roydon maintained their stranglehold on top spot with another commanding performance. The leaders cruised to a 4–0 home win over Herongate Athletic Reserves, a result that bolstered Roydon’s lead to nine points at the summit. In-form striker Jack Winstone struck twice in that game (taking his league tally to six) and teammates Mohammed Benzid and Shay Johnson also found the net to cap off a fine team display. Roydon’s nearest challengers, Old Southendian Reserves, kept up the pressure with a narrow 2–1 win over Beacon Hill Rovers Reserves – Kai Clark and Jack Morris were the scorers in that one. Elsewhere, Wakering Sports Reserves grabbed headlines with a thrilling 4–3 victory away at Heybridge Swifts Reserves. The seven-goal seesaw battle showcased Wakering’s attacking verve; the home side saw William Gore score twice and Nathan Kamavuako once, but Wakering still emerged with all three points to propel themselves into the division’s top half. Earlier in the month, Wakering’s second-string had been involved in a more low-key contest – a 1–1 draw against Leigh Ramblers Reserves. In that match, Sam Payne’s goal had looked like being enough until a late equaliser denied the visitors.

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Division Two

Cup Action

December also featured plenty of action in the EOFL’s cup competitions (with county cup matches excluded). In the Senior League Cup, several clubs booked their passage to the next round in style. Struggling Premier Division side Harold Hill enjoyed a bright moment by powering past fifth-tier Emerson & Upminster 6–1 at a neutral venue. Sam Cooper netted a consolation for Emerson, but Harold Hill’s cup run continues as a welcome distraction from their league woes. May & Baker ‘A’ also progressed with a 2–1 away win at Corinthians Reserves, with goals from Conor Keating and Ben Harty. A week later, the cup drama intensified in the Senior League Cup Round Three. ACD United pulled off arguably the cup performance of the season, thumping fourth-tier Rochford Town 8–0 to storm into the quarter-finals. New signing Tony Martin ran riot with four goals for ACD, while teammate Robbie Hobbrough fired a hat-trick and Thomas Skidmore added a single to complete the rout. Fellow Premier side Shenfield AFC also had a fine outing, dispatching ATF Southend 4–0 in Great Wakering. Midfielder George Nash scored twice to lead that win. Meanwhile, the EOFL Denny King Memorial Cup (for the lower divisions) got underway. Manford Way held their nerve to progress, defeating Pitsea Athletic on penalties after a 2–2 draw. Goals from David Alele and Jordan Rock had twice given Manford the lead, but Pitsea pegged them back through Jake Broom and Paul Gunn. In the end, Manford Way triumphed 4–3 in the shoot-out, securing their spot in the next round of the Denny King Cup.

Divisions Three to Five

Clubs in the lower divisions wrapped up their 2025 fixtures a bit more quietly. A handful of league games took place across Division Three (North West & South East), Division Four, and Division Five in early December, but unfortunately verified scorer information for many of those matches was not available at the time of writing. Notable results were recorded – for instance, some inter-divisional cup upsets came close as seen above – yet in regular league play several fixtures were postponed or weather-affected. With the festive season upon us, the EOFL will pause for a short winter break – league action is set to return in the New Year, when all divisions will resume the chase for titles and glory in 2026.

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