Everyone at Grassroots Magazine is pleased to announce our partnership with Southend United Community Foundation.
The Southend United Community Foundation is the official charity memory, Southend United Football Club, established in 2004. It aims to positively influence lives across South East Essex by leveraging the power of sport and the club's brand.
The Foundation addresses various community challenges, including poverty, health issues like diabetes, social isolation, bullying, anti-social behaviour, educational shortcomings, and low selfesteem. It offers a range of programmes focused on sports participation, health and wellbeing, education and training, and community cohesion to make a tangible difference in these areas.
Over the coming months we will be bringing you regular articles & updates on everything going on, for more information please see the link below.
https://sufccommunity.co.uk/
We are all saddened to hear of the tragic death on Poppy Atkinson who was recently killed by a car while playing football. Our thoughts are with her friends & family at this time.
If you would like to donate in her memory, please see the link below.
Good Luck to all those appearing in the many cup finals across the county over the next month. Thanks
Sunday League Day
Hutton FC
Southend United Community Foundation Lionesses Kit AId Grassroots Overseas Essex Olympian League Adult Leagues Youth Leagues Essex FA
Swifts
Another exciting season for Hutton Sundays as the squad continues to go from strength to strength under the leadership of manager Ricky Thompson, with the invaluable support of his brothers Danny and Charlie.
What started with striker George Rendell gathering friends from various youth teams across Essex has now become a tight-knit group of players spanning multiple age groups. Despite being one of the smaller squads in the league, Hutton Sundays have built a strong bond, always battling for each other on the pitch and actively looking to bring in fresh talent to push for success.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing for the team. Early seasons were a struggle, with inconsistent management and no clear style of play leading to back-toback campaigns of 6 wins, 3 draws, and 11 losses. However, with Ricky at the helm, the squad found its identity, adapting between formations and developing a more structured approach. Summer signings Richie, Connor H, Sean, George T, and Alfie have been instrumental in transforming the team’s fortunes.
The results speak for themselves. Hutton currently boasts a league record of 9 wins, 3 draws, and just 1 loss – the only defeat coming on the opening day before the team had fully gelled. With a remarkable defensive record of only 9 goals conceded and 41 scored, the progress under Ricky’s guidance is undeniable. This season, the team has already surpassed their total points from the previous two campaigns combined.
Key Players In goal, Frank "The Tank" has been in outstanding form, securing more clean sheets than ever before. A towering defence, led by Luke Bass, Danny Thompson, and midfield giant Dylan Edwards (standing at 6’6”), has made Hutton a formidable force, especially on set pieces. Fullbacks Sean Thomas and Casey Edwards provide width and attacking contributions, while the midfield is packed with talent, from the defensive reliability of Joe Reader and Louis Lambert to the attacking flair of captain Charlie Thompson and creative force Alfie Bond.
The forward line is equally potent, with top scorer George Terry battling for his spot alongside hockey star Richie Pickering and soon-to-be father George Rendell. On the wings, pace and trickery come from the likes of Connor DJ Raye, Connor Harbridge, Pierce Mosley, and the electric "Scuba" Joe Bonning, widely regarded as the best one-on-one attacker in the league.
Standout Performance – A season-defining 3-0 victory over previously unbeaten league leaders Old Chelmsfordians showcased Hutton’s quality. Having already taken a point from them earlier in the season, the boys put on a dominant display at home, proving they are serious title contenders. With the final stretch of the season approaching, the squad is pushing for promotion, believing they have what it takes to get over the line.
A huge thank you to Denver Electrical for sponsoring the kit this season. Denver Electrical are trusted NIC Approved Electrical contractors serving London and the South East, specializing in a wide range of electrical services. For enquiries, contact info@denverelectrical.co.uk or call 0203 742 1549
Shoutout to The Brave Nelson pub, the go-to spot for post-match celebrations. Located at 138 Woodman Road, Brentwood CM14 5AL, the pub is currently being refurbished to enhance the experience for players and supporters alike. A big thanks to our loyal supporters Keith, Kerry, Chloe, Lee, Tony, and Gilbert for following us home and away.
Lastly, a nod to those working tirelessly behind the scenes – Alfie Bond managing the @huttonsundays Instagram, Joe Reader running the X account @HuttonFCSundays, and Stephen Street for keeping our match data in check. UP THE HUTT!!
Grassroots Magazine travelled
to Roots Hall home of the BLUES to meet up with the guys from the Southend United Community Foundation, they explained the great work they do across South East Essex.
Southend United Community Foundation
We are incredibly proud of our affiliation with Southend United Football Club, but the Community Foundation is about so much more than football.
We strive to engage with and enrich the lives of people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and interests. We use our varied Sports Participation, Health & Wellbeing, Education & Training and Community Cohesion schemes to reach people throughout South East Essex – offering something for everyone!
We are driven by our Million Mission – our commitment to positively engage with one million people through the brand of Southend United Football Club between 2016 and 2026. Be one in a million, go on – get involved!
Sports Participation
Our Sports Participation department delivers high quality sports provision to a network of schools, groups and individuals throughout the academic year. This is achieved through an extensive range of in-school and after-school activities, each delivered by our highly skilled team of staff who are positive role models as well as Coaches.
Health &Wellbeing
Whilst Health & Wellbeing is at the core of all we do, we deliver a variety of programmes designed to improve the health and wellbeing of people of all ages and abilities. Our flagship Joy of Moving, Move and Learn programme has already improved the lives, education and understanding of thousands of local school children.
Our partnership with Southend United enables us to organise Player Appearances at local schools to promote health and wellbeing to pupils, using positive role models to break down barriers.
Our highly qualified Coaches deliver practical and theory lessons regarding a variety of health and wellbeing topics including diabetes, nutrition and the benefits of regular exercise.
Our Senior Shrimpers members are encouraged to try new activities such as bowls, dancing, armchair aerobics, walking football and more.
Education & Training
Our Education department provides alternative learning opportunities for young people, including vocational and academic pathways.
Educational courses focus on reintegrating young people into learning or employment, whilst building their CVs and developing transferable key and life skills that will be vital across many of the career paths that the learners choose to take.
Regardless of current attainment levels, we operate an inclusive end-to-end education and training model offering entry-level programmes, Traineeships, Apprenticeships, Post-16 Education courses and even Degree level qualifications – we’re here to inspire people to achieve their potential.
Community Cohesion
Our Community Cohesion programmes engage with young people aged 8-25, using football as a positive vehicle to bring people together regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, sexuality or disability.
Programmes are targeted at under-represented groups such as people with a disability, BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) and low-income families with the view to creating positive activity and meaningful progressions.
Our Community Cohesion team signposts young people to exciting education, training and volunteering opportunities including the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze programme and the NCS programme.
We have an impressive progression and success rate, helping young people reach their ambitions.
“Football is where our passion starts, not where it ends.
Our goal is to teach young people to do more than score goals. Whether they’re sporty or not, every child and young person in our community deserves the chance to be part of a team. Because when you’re part of a team, you discover great qualities in yourself. Qualities like respect, determination, and friendship.
When you’re part of a team, you lay the foundations for the adult you’ll become. When you’re part of a team, you learn how to be your best self.
Kicking a ball isn’t the be-all and end-all. It’s about building up the courage to take a shot. That courage stays with you. And once you have it, anything is possible.”
This months Broomfield Lionesses update:
February's Frustrations and Fantastic Footwork: Broomfield Lionesses U12 Shine Despite the Storms
February, that fickle month, decided to throw a spanner in the works for our Broomfield Lionesses U12s. Just two games graced the calendar, thanks to the relentless British weather, leaving us all longing for more football. It's a real shame, as the girls were on fire! The progress they've shown in recent weeks, particularly their movement and passing, has been nothing short of remarkable. You can see the hours of hard work on the training pitch paying off.
Speaking of training, we've been experimenting with a variety of techniques, pushing the girls to explore different approaches and expand their footballing arsenal. It’s vital to introduce new drills and challenges to keep things fresh and stimulating, but there's also immense value in consistency. That's why we always keep one core drill the same each week. It provides a familiar foundation, allowing the girls to track their progress and build confidence. It's in that repetition that true mastery begins to take root.
Despite the limited game time, February still delivered some memorable moments. We faced one of the league favourites and, while we suffered a loss, the girls held their heads high. Then came a truly inspiring performance against another top-tier team. A hard-fought, well-deserved draw felt like a victory! The commitment, effort, and never-say-die attitude displayed by every single Lioness was absolutely incredible. We were inches away from snatching a win, thwarted only by some truly outstanding goalkeeping from the opposition. That kind of grit and determination is what makes this team so special.
Speaking of special, we had a fantastic array of Player of the Match performances. Lana, Paige, Katie, and Darcy each shone brightly, demonstrating their individual talents and contributing significantly to the team’s efforts. Well done girls! Beyond the wins and losses, something that truly warms my heart is the team’s impeccable sportsmanship. They consistently show a respectful and positive attitude towards their opponents, regardless of the circumstances. It's a quality that speaks volumes about their character, and it’s a standard we hold high. Even when faced with less-thanrespectful behaviour from some opposing team representatives, our Lionesses maintain their composure and dignity. That’s something to be truly proud of.
And with the end of the season only a couple of months away, some truly exciting times are on the horizon! Next season, we’ll be making the leap to 11-a-side football, a huge step for the girls. To prepare for this transition, we'll be holding some soft trials in the coming weeks. We're looking to identify talented players who not only possess the necessary skills but also embody the positive, supportive spirit that defines our team. We want to find girls who will fit seamlessly into our existing squad, both on and off the pitch. If you or someone you know is a budding footballer who shares our passion and values, we'd love to hear from you! So, while February’s weather may have dampened our pitch, it certainly didn’t dampen our spirits. We’re eagerly looking forward to March, hoping for clearer skies and plenty of opportunities to see these incredible young women shine once more. Onwards, Lionesses!
KITAID CORNER
The national charity KitAid takes your old unwanted kit & equipment and gives it a new home in parts of the world where the game is loved, but participation is held back by a lack of access to resources.
We have reached some significant milestones in the last couple of years. During KitAid's 25th Anniversary year, 2023, the Charity passed 1 million items of kit donated and shared worldwide. In 2024, the 26th Year, the total passed 1,100,000 million. This is 2025, the 27th year, and it has started well, reaching nearly 1,135,000 by the end of February.
Boxing Up - 1st March 2025
Maintaining the momentum set this year, KitAid volunteers joined together this month to box up more kit donations. Amongst the kits passing through the Hatfield, Herts boxing up room several Essex club kits featured and are now on their way to a new home, promising to spread more smiles for the love of the game.
United Community Foundation Kit Donation
Over 4,000 items were boxed up and are now going out to the Cameroon, Kenya, South Africa, Ukraine and Zimbabwe. Of particular note are the Colchester United Community Foundation benchcoats and jackets which will find a welcome new home in the Ukraine
Colchester
Valley Green YFC Kit Donation
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) kit now in Zimbabwe
November GM (Issue 25 - p13) reported on the substantial and welcome kit donation from Team ARU and Crofton Alexander (Clubs & Performance Sport Manager).
Now in Zimbabwe with some very happy young women in Lobengula, Bulawayo Zimbabwe. Well done Team ARU and thanks are due too to Majinka Hope for delivering the kit and feeding back with such good news. Joy and Inspiration
KitAid Partnerships in Action
Kit & equipment donations support a range of projects with whom KitAid are working - projects that are seeking 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 women facing abuse. It is why we say of our work, "It's more than just a shirt ... "
Each month in GM we are providing examples of those Partner projects with whom we work. This month we profile a quite amazing project supporting the needs of orphans in Malawi.
FOMO is a community-based orphan care project. It supports over 2,000 children through a network of 14 centres in the Mulanje district of Malawi. Established in June 2000, it is a registered charity in both the UK and Malawi.
The project covers all aspects of the children’s welfare including health through their outreach clinics, formal and informal education, food security and production. It covers pre-school, out of school activities and further learning through playschools, driving and tailoring schools. It also covers the provision of school materials, personal items (soap, clothes, blankets, and mosquito nets) and much more.
In 2018, KitAid volunteers met with Mary Woodworth, the inspiration behind the FOMO initiative, and she introduced them to some of the youngsters supported by FOMO. It was those youngsters that first asked Mary if they could form a football team and call themselves KitAid FC. Delighted to help, KitAid were able to supply a donated orange kit from Harpenden Colts. The youngsters were kitted out and planning their future!
A regular flow of donated kits have followed and seven years on KitAid FC has grown to include over 60 boys, across U14 and U17 teams as well as a junior feeder team called Pineapple FC. They have won countless matches and trophies and three of the boys have been selected for the Malawi National youth teams.
First selected to play in the Malawi U16 team, one of the boys, Zanil Jussab travelled to Lesotho to play in an International tournament.
He has now moved up to the U20s team and is playing for the reserves at Nyasa Big Bullets, the biggest team in the Malawi Super League.
There is now a proper structure and pathway for the boys to start in the feeder team, Pineapple FC and progress though KidAid FC all the way through to the men’s FOMO FC team, before then onto the Mighty Wanderers who play in the Malawi Super League. We are incredibly proud of the boys, and they represent all the values and spirit of KitAid. They work hard at school and football is their passion and joy. They look out for each other and thanks to the support they receive from Mary, they are able to keep the KitAid name burning brightly in Malawi. The future is orange, the future is KitAid FC.
However, times are hard for FOMO and though their impact on all aspects of these young people's life is so vital and impressive, an injection of financial support is desperately needed. Check them out on line and see where your support might most immediately help them keep their work going - Contact | FOMO Malawi
Zanil (left) and Malawi teammate
Zanil Jussab - proudly wearing one of his early Malawi kits
How you can help here in Essex in 2025
If you can please look to:
o Donate unwanted kit & equipment – email KitAid at kitaidcharity@gmail.com or locally barrie.2014@yahoo.co.uk
o Consider advertising KitAid at your ground, in your programme or on social media
o Share skills (promotion, marketing or design), experience (accessing relevant grant aid) or provide access to resources (storage, transport or venues for sorting kit & equipment)
Appeal for Your Help - Kit Collectors, Storage & Transport
Urgently Needed
Essex is so invested in spreading smiles for the love of the game, we urgently need more help here to collect and store kits locally before being transferred to Hatfield or Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire for boxing up. You will join a great national KitAid team - but we need your hands on help in Essex. We are all volunteers and commit as much time as we feel able to, but know what we do matters ... "It's more than just a shirt ..."
If you want to know more about joining the team of volunteers, contact KitAid Founder Derrick Williams MBE at kitaidcharity@gmail.com
Grassroots
Grassroots Football in the Netherlands
Grassroots football in the Netherlands is well-structured, inclusive, and serves as the foundation for Dutch football's success. Here’s a deep dive into the key aspects:
Amateur Clubs & League Structure League System
The Dutch football pyramid includes multiple tiers, with professional and amateur levels closely linked.
▪ Eredivisie (1st Tier) – Professional
▪ Eerste Divisie (Keuken Kampioen Divisie) (2nd Tier) – Professional
▪ Tweede Divisie (3rd Tier) – Semi-professional, includes some reserve teams of pro clubs
▪ Derde Divisie (4th Tier) – Two regional groups (Saturday & Sunday leagues)
▪ Hoofdklasse (5th Tier) – Four groups (Saturday & Sunday leagues)
▪ Eerste Klasse, Tweede Klasse, Derde Klasse, Vierde Klasse (6th-9th Tier) – Purely amateur leagues
Notable Amateur Clubs
Some amateur clubs have strong histories and player development programs:
▪ AFC Amsterdam (Tweede Divisie) – One of the best amateur teams in the country.
▪ IJsselmeervogels (Tweede Divisie) – One of the most successful non-professional clubs.
▪ VV Katwijk (Tweede Divisie) – A powerhouse in Dutch amateur football.
▪ Quick Boys (Katwijk) – A club with a strong fan base, known for producing talent.
▪ HHC Hardenberg (Tweede Divisie) – Consistently strong in the semi-pro league.
Many professional clubs also have reserve teams playing in these divisions, helping young talents develop.
Youth Development Pathways
The Netherlands has one of the world's best football development systems, with a focus on technical skills, game intelligence, and tactical awareness.
How Youth Players Progress
Grassroots Football
Kids start at amateur clubs from ages 4-6.
1. Grassroots Football
Kids start at amateur clubs from ages 4-6.
Clubs have structured leagues from U7 to U19.
2. Professional Club Academies
Ajax, PSV, Feyenoord, AZ Alkmaar, and others have top academies. They scout amateur players early (ages 7-12).
3. KNVB Regional Training Centers (Jeugdplan Nederland) For exceptionally talented players not yet in a pro academy.
4. U17, U19 National Teams & Jong Oranje (U21)
The best academy players represent the Netherlands at youth levels.
5. Eerste Divisie & Loan System
Many young players go on loan to Eerste Divisie or play in reserve teams.
▪ Ajax Academy (De Toekomst) – One of the best in the world.
▪ Feyenoord Academy (Varkenoord) – Known for producing hard-working players.
▪ PSV Academy – Focuses on attacking football and technical skills.
▪ AZ Alkmaar Academy – Produces top midfielders and defenders
Famous Dutch players like Johan Cruyff, Arjen Robben, Virgil van Dijk, and Memphis Depay all started in local grassroots clubs before being scouted.
Women’s & Girls' Grassroots Football
Women's football has grown massively, especially after the Netherlands won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2017.
Women’s League Structure
▪ Eredivisie Vrouwen – Top professional league (teams like Ajax, PSV, Twente).
▪ Eerste Klasse, Tweede Klasse, Derde Klasse – Amateur levels.
▪ Many amateur clubs now have dedicated girls' teams from U9 to U19.
Initiatives Supporting Women’s Football
▪ KNVB Plan 2024 – Aims to double female participation.
▪ Girls-only academies – Increasing at clubs like Ajax and Twente.
▪ Street football & school programs – Encouraging more young girls to play.
Top female players like Vivianne Miedema, Lieke Martens, and Daniëlle van de Donk started in amateur clubs before becoming stars.
Inclusivity & Community Initiatives
The KNVB and clubs support various initiatives to make football accessible to everyone. Football for People with Disabilities
▪ G-Voetbal (G-Football) – Football for people with disabilities.
▪ Walking Football – For seniors aged 50+, promoting active lifestyles.
Football for Refugees & Minority Groups
▪ Many amateur clubs provide free football training for refugee children.
▪ KNVB’s ‘Voetbal voor Iedereen’ (Football for Everyone) program fights discrimination and promotes diversity.
Street Football & School Initiatives
▪ Cruyff Courts – Small pitches in neighborhoods for free play.
▪ Schools Football Program – Kids get early exposure to structured football training.
Volunteers & Club Culture
▪ Amateur clubs in the Netherlands rely heavily on volunteers (coaches, referees, club managers).
▪ Clubhouses are community hubs, where families and fans gather.
▪ Local derbies (e.g., Katwijk vs. Quick Boys) attract thousands of fans, showing the passion for amateur football.
Conclusion: Why Dutch Grassroots Football Is So Strong
Well-structured pyramid – Clear pathway from amateur to pro football. Strong youth development – Focus on technique, tactics, and intelligence. Inclusive & diverse – Opportunities for women, minorities, and disabled players. Community-driven – Volunteers and clubs keep the game thriving.
ESSEX OLYMPIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
February Round Up
Premier Division
Two wins & 2 Clean sheets for Old Southendian’s in February see them go into March on top of the League. A 30 win against Wakering Sports & 4-0 against Toby have put the Club in a commanding position.
Shenfield A, Old Chelmsfordians & Runwell Sports all continue to chase the leaders & have games in hand. Shenfield picked up 6 points with wins over Leigh Ramblers & Hashtag United Development but a huge 6-1 home defeat to Catholic United was damaging. A good month for Old Chelmsfordian’s with 3 wins over ACD United, Toby & Springfield keeping 2 clean sheets in the process. Runwell Sports stay in touch with 4 points from their 2 League games.
At the bottom Toby continue to struggle with back-to-back 4-0 defeats away to title chasing Old Chelmsfordian’s & Old Southendian’s. Springfield managed a couple of points with draws against Bishops Stortford & ACD United. Sungate picked up a single point on their only game in the league drawing 3-3 with Runwell Sports
Sungate also crash out of the BBC Essex Saturday Premier Cup losing 3-2 to Harold Hill. Old Southendian’s are also out following a Walkover.
Springfield, Runwell Sports & Old Chelmsfordian’s all progress in the Senior League Cup.
Division 1
A good month for Corinthians with 2 wins over Basildon Utd Res. by the same 2-1 scoreline. Herongate picked up 2 away wins, keeping 2 clean sheets in the process, the 6 points coming with victories over Galleywood & title rivals Harold Wood Athletic. Harold wood do still have several games in hand. No league games for Catholic Utd Res. Galleywood remain bottom with a defeat in their only league game played in February. May & Baker EC A gained a valuable 3 points with a 3-0 win over Canning Town. No games in any competition for Beacon Hill.
In the Denny King Memorial Cup Corinthians beat May & Baker EC A 5-0. Galleywood are through with a 3-2 win over Basildon Town Res. Manford Way also progress after a 4-1 win on penalties over Harold Hill.
Catholic United Res. are through to the next round of the Reserve League Cup with a 5-0 win over Shenfield A Res.
There are places in the next round of the Senior League Cup for Herongate & Kelvedon Hatch after a 3-1 away win over Hashtag Utd Development & 4-3 penalty shoot out victory over Harooverbackbacketic respectively.
Corinthians continue their run in the BBC Essex Saturday Premier Cup beating May & Baker EC A 3-0 to reach the next round. Catholic Utd are out after a 2-2 draw see them crash out 4-2 on penalties to Takeley Res.
Division 2
At the top Leigh Town secured a 4-0 away win over Shoebury. 2 away wins for Pitsea Athletic with Victories over BKS Sports & Old Southendian Res. BKS did pick up 3 points with a 4-2 away win at Roydon. No league game for Hutton Res. in February.
3 games & 3 defeats for Shoebury Town losing to Rayleigh Town Res, Leigh Town & relegation rivals Epping Town. Epping Town also suffered a heavy defeat to Roydon & their match at the beginning of the month was abandoned.
Leigh Town are out of the Essex Saturday Junior Cup losing 1-0 at home to BKS Sports Res. BKS Sports First are out with defeat at Broomfield. Hutton Reserves are through beating Sandon Royals 5-4 away from home
Division 3
At the top Rawreth lane could only manage a single point this month with a 0-0 draw at home to Hullbridge Sports A. 2 wins for Bishops Stortford Swifts Res beating Manford Way Res. 4-1 & Rochford Town 4-3 away from home. Rochford managed 2 pick up 2 wins & kept 2 clean sheets beating Springfield Res. & Shenfield A Res.
At the bottom there was 2 games & 2 defeats for Springfield Res. as well as losing to Rochford Town they also lost 3-2 at home to Galleywood Res. Shenfield A picked up a handy 5-2 victory over Emerson & Upminster.
Bishops Stortford Swifts Res. are through to the next round of the Reserve League Cup with a 3-1 away win over Springfield Res.
In the Shepherds Neame Trophy, there were wins for Herongate Res & Manford Way Res. Galleywood Res. are out losing 2-1 to Hutton A.
Division 4 North West
Hannakins Farm kept up their good form beating Old Chelmsfordian’s Res. 3-1 away. Broomfield beat title rivals Hutton A 4-1 & still have games in hand over the teams above them. 1 win & 1 loss for South Woodham, a narrow loss to Canning Town 3-2 at home. The win coming via an away win over Galleywood A. Mixed fortunes for Hutton A but a good 8-1 win over Leytonstone United keep them in touch at the top. No wins for Leytonstone this month also losing at home to Old Chelmsfordian Res. 3-2. Herongate Athletic A lost their only League match, 3-2 to Brentwood Town Development.
In the Shepherds Neame Trophy Galleywood are out losing 2-0 to Brentwood Town Development. Canning Town Res. are out following a 2-0 defeat to Herongate Athletic Res. Sungate also crash out. Hutton A progress with a 2-1 victory over Galleywood Res.
Division 4 South East
At the top it was hit & miss for Earls Hall Utd, A 6-4 home defeat to BKS Sports Res was followed with a 8-2 win over Old Southendian A. South Essex Utd remain in a good position with games in hand after taking 3 points away to Ashingdon
At the bottom Southend Collegians picked up a point with a 2-2 draw with Pitsea Athletic Res. Defeats to Catholic Utd A & Ekco Park see them with some work to do. Corinthians Res. remain bottom having not played any league games.
Earls Hall Utd, Ashingdon both progress in the Frank Watton Cup but Ekco Park & South Essex Utd crash out.
Division 5
It’s very tight at the top with 3 teams dominating, ATF Southend, South Essex Utd Res. & Wakering Sports B battling it out. 2 huge wins for ATF Southend 6-2 away to Rochford Town Res. & a 9-3 victory over Ashingdon Res. keep them top of the Division. South Essex Utd Res. produced 2 great results winning 14-2 away to Southend Collegians A & a 5-0 victory over Ekco Park Res. but Leigh Ramblers slowed down their title hopes winning 5-4. Wakering Sports B managed a 6-3 victory over Ashingdon Res. to keep in touch at the top. 2 heavy defeats for Southend Collegians A, the latest a 6-2 loss to Wickford Town. No league games for HODS who remain in trouble.
A good win in the Frank Watton Cup for Ekco Park Res. see them progress following a 2-1 victory over South Essex Utd. ATF Southend & Leigh Ramblers A also go through.
A 4-3 win for Leigh Ramblers A over Hutton Development in the Essex Saturday Junior Trophy see them through to the next round.
grassroots magazine
Essex Corinthian League Senior Division Team
The FA Sunday Cup is one of the oldest and most prestigious competitions for amateur football teams in England, with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1972
The FA Sunday Cup is a national football competition in England for amateur Sunday league teams. It is organised by the Football Association (FA) and is open to all Sunday league teams across the country. The competition provides an opportunity for grassroots teams to compete against each other in a knockout format, with the final typically taking place at a prestigious venue like Wembley Stadium or another prominent stadium in England.
The FA Sunday Cup has a long history and is considered one of the most important competitions for amateur football teams in England. Teams from various levels of the amateur game compete for the honour of being crowned the best Sunday league team in the country.
Grassroots gives back
Grassroots Magazine is committed to giving back to grassroots football and we are excited to sponsor a talented young player Kaci Crook & an equally talented youth team in Broomfield Lions U13’s for this season.
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LEAGUES LOCAL YOUTH
ESSEX FA
2024/25 ESSEX COUNTY CUP FINAL VENUES CONFIRMED
Eagerly-Awaited Details Shared by the Essex County FA
Dates and venues for the 24 highly-anticipated showpiece Essex County FA 2024/25 Cup Finals have now been confirmed, kicking-off with a treble of #GirlsFinalsDay matches taking place on Sunday 2nd March.
Further information has now been shared relating to the arrangements for the showpiece events, which have been booked for competitions involving male, female and mixed teams across the county, at age groups from Under 12s through to veterans. These fixtures are major highlights in the local grassroots football calendar every year.
These occasions will be held at nine venues across Essex, including at Colchester United FC’s JobServe Community Stadium, which will play host to the BBC Essex Senior and Women’s Cup Finals. The schedule is kicked-off with the three Girls Cups at Aveley FC. There will then be a further 21 finals staged at venues around the county, finishing-up at Heybridge Swifts FC for the Essex Cassels Under 16s Cup Final on Sunday 11th May.
Mark Wallis, from the Essex County FA Competitions Department, is excited to see the showpiece events get underway, commenting: “To see so many players, club and match officials and spectators enjoying the Essex County Cup Final action is truly worthwhile. These games are amongst the highlights of the football calendar, and we’re really looking forward to them all.”
The full list of Essex County Cup Final venues and dates for the 2024/25 season can found at www.essexfa.com. You can also find out more about Essex’s County Cups in the ‘Cups & Competitions’ menu, and by following the Essex County FA on social media.
Essex County FA Cup Finals 2024/25
Essex Under 13s Girls Cup, Sunday 2nd March 2025, Kick-Off 10:00am, Aveley FC
Essex Under 14s Girls Cup, Sunday 2nd March 2025, Kick-Off 1:00pm, Aveley FC
Essex Under 16s Girls Cup, Sunday 2nd March 2025, Kick-Off 4:00pm, Aveley FC
Essex Under 18s Girls Cup, Wednesday 5th March 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Brentwood Town FC
Essex Veterans Trophy, Wednesday 12th March 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Concord Rangers FC
BBC Essex Senior Cup, Tuesday 18th March 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Colchester United FC
Essex Saturday Veterans Cup, Wednesday 26th March 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Waltham Abbey FC
Essex Sunday Veterans Cup, Wednesday 2nd April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Hullbridge Sports FC
Essex Saturday Junior Cup, Wednesday 9th April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Heybridge Swifts FC
BBC Essex Women’s Cup, Thursday 10th April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Colchester United FC
Essex Sunday Junior Cup, Sunday 13th April 2025, Kick-Off 10:30am, Bowers & Pitsea FC
Essex Sunday Premier Cup, Sunday 13th April 2025, Kick-Off 3:00pm, Bowers & Pitsea FC
BBC Essex Saturday Premier Cup, Wednesday 16th April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Billericay Town FC
Essex Sunday Junior Trophy, Friday 25th April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Heybridge Swifts FC
Essex Under 12s Cup, Sunday 27th April 2025, Kick-Off 11:00am, Hullbridge Sports FC
Essex Under 12s Girls Cup, Sunday 27th April 2025, Kick-Off 2:30pm, Hullbridge Sports FC
Essex Women’s Trophy, Wednesday 30th April 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Bowers & Pitsea FC
Essex Saturday Junior Trophy, Friday 2nd May 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Heybridge Swifts FC
Essex Cordell Under 13s Cup, Sunday 4th May 2025, Kick-Off 10:00am, Aveley FC
Essex Under 13s Trophy, Sunday 4th May 2025, Kick-Off 1:00pm, Aveley FC
Essex Andrews Under 14s Cup, Sunday 4th May 2025, Kick-Off 4:00pm, Aveley FC
Essex Pelly Under 18s Cup, Wednesday 7th May 2025, Kick-Off 7:45pm, Billericay Town FC
Essex Rosser Under 15s Cup, Sunday 11th May 2025, Kick-Off 11:00am, Heybridge Swifts FC
Essex Cassels Under 16s Cup, Sunday 11th May 2025, Kick-Off 3:00pm, Heybridge Swifts FC
ESSEX FA
NEW STEPS TO IMPROVE GRASSROOTS YOUTH FOOTBALL
Format Updates to be Introduced from the 2026/27 Season
From the start of the 2026/27 season, England Football will be launching a new, progressive framework for grassroots youth football in England, which aims to further improve the experience for young players across the country - giving them more time on the ball, more time on the pitch and increasing their physical activity levels.
Over the past two years, England Football have been working with stakeholders across the grassroots game to explore the future of youth football, alongside the physical and technical impact of the current formats on young players. This comprehensive consultation process has been enhanced by a study into playing formats for youth players in other European nations and is complemented with their own research and testing within the grassroots game across England.
In partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, England Football have studied more than 400 grassroots games, from Under 6s to 14s level, which has allowed them to better understand the technical and physical returns of different playing formats for young players, plus the impact of proposed adjustments.
From the 2026/27 season, they will be introducing the following changes, and they’ll shortly deliver a series of comprehensive workshops and tools to support all coaches, clubs and leagues across the country to further understand the changes which will be implemented:
* A new 3v3 entry format for the youngest players in the pathway at Under 7s level, fielding three players on each side, to maximise engagement and provide the best introduction to football.
* Each format will be played one year later as players transition through the pathway, including 11v11, which will move from Under 13s to Under 14s level.
* Greater alignment with schools, children playing smaller formats with simplified rules throughout primary school, before progressing to 9v9 and more complex rules at secondary school.
* Evolved laws of the game which are age-appropriate and best support the overall development of the young player. For example, amendments have already been made to game restarts for Under 7s to 9s to increase ‘ball in play’ time.
A new ‘Future Fit: Digital Content Hub’ has been launched to help the grassroots football community with these changes in advance of implementation from the 2026/27 season, and the workshops will take place across the country in March and April 2025. The hub will be continuously updated over the next 18 months, to ensure the latest information is available to the grassroots game. Specific details around the implementation of formats, including 3v3, will also follow as part of this.
FA Director of Football Development, James Kendall, said: “We are excited about these new changes, which follow a two-year period of consultation with the grassroots game. Our approach is about evolution, not revolution, helping to increase the levels of engagement, physical activity, skill development and the volume of technical actions for every player.”
“Together with the County FA network, we are fully committed to working closely with all those involved in delivering grassroots youth football, providing the support needed to implement these changes across the country.”
England Football’s ‘Future Fit: Digital Content Hub’ for the future of youth football in England can be accessed by following this link.
ESSEX FA
HAVE YOUR SAY ON UPDATED ESSEX FOOTBALL EQUALITY STRATEGY
Stakeholder Diversity and Inclusion Consultation Now Underway
We've launched a survey as part of the consultation period for our reviewed and refreshed 2028 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy.
The current strategy, the first ever published EDI strategy specific to Essex, was released in December 2023, and we'll shortly be embarking on a localised, updated version, in-line with our new #MovingForward 2028 Strategy. The survey is open from now until Monday 14th April for all football stakeholders and community groups, accessible via this link.
The EDI Strategy forms an integral part of our long-term commitment to creating a game free from discrimination. As we build this strategy, we’re undertaking a consultation process to help inform us of key football priorities in Essex. We’re keen to hear from organisations who have had limited engagement with us to date and are keen to work more closely together.
The strategy will outline key development commitments across the protected characteristics to help promote and support inclusion across the county. It will operate across the governance side of the organisation, setting targets to increase the diversity of the County FA workforce, with a priority on improving representation across Board and Council.
Accessible for the entire football community, it will set clear direction towards driving meaningful changes within the organisation, and across the game. There will be a further focus on initiatives to promote equality and to increase the diversity of those playing, officiating, coaching, leading and governing football within Essex.
The survey should take no longer than ten minutes to complete and is for football stakeholders across Essex and the Essex London Boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest. This includes clubs, leagues and community organisations already engaging with the Essex County FA, as well as those who haven’t engaged previously.
Essex County FA Equality & Inclusion Officer, Milly Morgan, said: “We look forward to hearing the thoughts of everyone who we work with, or will continue to work with, in the future. These insights are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive and representative game for all. This consultation is a vital opportunity to ensure everyone has a voice in the future of football in Essex. We encourage you to take part and help us to drive meaningful change together.”
You can complete the survey until Monday 14th April and, if you have any questions relating to the consultation, please EMail milly.morgan@essexfa.com. We're also active on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok
HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS F.C
WHO WE ARE
The DT38 Foundation has beenset up in memoryof Dylan James Tombides.Dylan was an Australian International and WestHam United professional football player who passed away aged 20 in April 2014 after a 3-year battle with testicularcancer. The WestHam Family thought so highly of Dylan that theyretiredhis number38 and madeDT38 one of their principal charities.
The charity has beenformed as a resultof Dylan being misdiagnosed. Our vision is to change the way testicularcancer is diagnosed by implementingbest practicediagnostic guidelines for patients who presentwith testicularsymptoms.
We also aim to arm future generationsof young menwith the necessary knowledge about testicularcancer that will enable themto be confident when taking health matters intotheir own hands.
Our missionis to raiseawarenessand change the stigmaassociated with men’shealth issueswith a focus on testicularcancer.We aim to do this througheducational programsand opportunitiesfor the youth of our community,to help shapea generationof children who are selfaware about their health and wellbeing.
OUR MAIN GOALS ARE TO
✓ Drive the SELF-AWARENESScampaignfor the early detection of testicular cancer
✓ Focus on youth EDUCATION through various teaching programmes aligned to national curriculum
✓ Partnering with the COMMUNITY to promote the changes needed for increased male awareness and openness towards discussing their health matters
✓ Collaborating with GOVERNINGBODIES to foster a best practice mentality for the early detection of testicular cancer
OUR HISTORY
The charity is based in both the United Kingdom and Australia. The charity was launchedon the 28th February 2015in the United Kingdom when West Ham United came up againstCrystal Palace at Upton Park. At the 38th minute mark the spectators from both sides stood and clapped as a mark of respect. The charity officially launchedin Australia on September 1st 2015 when Premier Colin Barnett and the Tombides family unveiled a bronze statue of Dylan outside NIB Stadium- Perth’s home of football. Both events were extremely momentous occasionsand highlight the high regard in which Dylan was held both as a footballer and a person.
The charity has come about as a direct response too Dylan’s personal story and the current status of testicular cancer awareness in society. Testicular cancer affects younger men aged 15- 49. It is the second most commoncancer in young men in Australia. There was 732 cases diagnosedin Australia in 2011 and 25 deaths. The rate of men diagnosed with testicular cancer has grown 50% in the past 30 years and the reason is unknown.The survival rate is 98%. There is currently no routine screening tests in place for testicular cancer. We at the DT38 Foundationbelieve that awareness is the key to addressing this illness. We know that our vision and mission clearly state the changeswe plan to bring aboutin the future.
At the moment we have a small team of 4 directors and many volunteers in Perth, Western Australia. The foundationis growing at a rapid pace and so is the number of people becoming involved with DT38. We have found the need to have the Australian Company (DT38 Australia Pty Ltd) registered as a charity and the direction we are heading is very clear to us. We are now at the stage where we require funding to assist us in beginning various projects.
We at DT38 recognise the potential impact we canhave on a large scale and are proud to be part of an organizationlike ours. We believe that we have the correct structures and procedures in place to assist us in developing our key milestones and we lookforward to continuingto spread the DT38 message with the world. To read about our latest developments head to our newspage
"International Women’s Day serves as a significant moment to reflect on and advocate for gender equality in all areas, including football. While girls’ football has made substantial progress, challenges remain in achieving equitable funding, recognition, and opportunities. Establishing strong pathways into women’s football is crucial, not only for those aspiring to play professionally but also for fostering participation at all levels.
Offering the opportunities we do at Galleywood ensures that young girls have the chance to develop their skills and pursue their ambitions. By celebrating progress and addressing remaining inequalities, we can create a more inclusive and fair future for football."
Emma Toms, Girls Development Lead at Galleywood Youth Football Club
International Women’s Day
grassroots magazine
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Would you like to get involved?
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We believe in transparency as a football club, by clicking here you can view our full business plan. As we grow as a club we will continue updating this document with more detial.
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For as little as £5 you can become an owner of East Thurrock Community Football Club. Get a say in how the club is run as well as full financial updates on a weekly basis.
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Our Plan
We believe in transparency as a football club, by clicking here you can view our full business plan. As we grow as a club we will continue updating this document with more detial.
