SHROPSHIRE FA June Edition
THE NEWSLETTER OF THE SHROPSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
365 Days of football
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
CUP FINAL RECAP Last month, Shropshire FA hosted an incredible run of 16 cup finals across 16 days, delivering plenty of excitement, quality football, and memorable moments throughout. A huge thank you goes to all the referees who supported the competition.
GRASSROOTS AWARDS SHORTLIST The Shropshire FA Grassroots Awards will take place at Croud Meadow on 10 July, bringing together volunteers from across the county. .
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TJ VICKERS ANNOUNCED AS NEW SPONSORS OF THE SHROPSHIRE COUNTY LEAGUE The Shropshire Football Association is delighted to announce a new three-year partnership with TJ Vickers months.
PLUS LOTS MORE! WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Grassroots football in Shropshire is built on the stories, celebrations, milestones and hard work of our local clubs. Whether you’re marking an anniversary, launching new plans, celebrating success, or simply have news to share, we’d love to feature it in the Shropshire FA magazine. Get in touch and let’s showcase the fantastic work happening across our football community. Email your news to: Luke.flindall@ShrosphireFA.com
Cup Final Recap Last month, Shropshire FA hosted an incredible run of 16 cup finals across 12 days, delivering plenty of excitement, quality football, and memorable moments throughout. A huge thank you goes to all the referees who supported the competition. The county cup campaign kicked off on May 5th, as Allscott Heath FC U16 Girls faced Prees Club U16 Prees Lightning at AFC Telford United’s SEAH Stadium in the Cara Wall U16 Saturday Challenge Final. It was a closely contested match, with Prees leading 2–1 at half-time before adding a third in the second half to secure the trophy. The following day featured the SFA U15 Sunday Challenge Cup between Prees Club U15 Prees Predators and Oswestry BG Club U15 Vikings. Oswestry opened the scoring, but Prees responded with two goals before the break. However, Oswestry dominated the second half, scoring twice to claim a 3–2 victory.
On Thursday, Oswestry BG Club U15 Dynamos met Bridgnorth Spartans U15 Whites in the SFA U15 Saturday Challenge Cup Final. Two quick goals in six minutes gave Bridgnorth control, and they held firm to win 2–0. Friday delivered more drama. Worthen Juniors U16 Titans defeated Nova United U16 in a thrilling 4–3 encounter at the SEAH Stadium. Meanwhile, at the Croud Meadow in Shrewsbury, Ellesmere Rangers beat Dawley Town 2–0 in the SLL Tony Bywater Premier Cup, with goals from Shawn Melusi and Karl Bailey. Saturday’s action continued at the Croud Meadow. In the SFA Premier Youth Challenge Cup, Shifnal Town FC U18 overcame AFC Telford United U18 3–2 after leading 3–0 at halftime.
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In the Mark Harrod U15 & U16 Premier Youth Cup, Shawbury United U16 MJPL Kestrels defeated Allscott Heath FC U16, extending their firsthalf lead to secure victory. The day concluded with the TJ Vickers Premier Cup Final, where AFC Bridgnorth defeated Shawbury United 2–0, with goals from Josh Hesson and Suar Deja. The final day at the Croud Meadow began with AFC Wrekin taking on AFC Coracle in the SFA Sunday Premier Cup. Wrekin dominated early, leading 4–0 at half-time, with Macara McNulty-Hartnett scoring a hat-trick. The match ended 7–2 in Wrekin’s favour.
The final match at the venue saw Shrewsbury Town Women defeat AFC Telford United Ladies 3–0 in the Tom Farmer Women’s Cup, with goals from Alice Raby, Holly Appleby, and Katie Doster. After a short break, action returned to the SEAH Stadium. AFC Bridgnorth defeated The Red Lion @ Great Chatwell 7–1 in the SFA Sunday Challenge Cup Final. In the Shropshire Youth Cup, Shrewsbury Up & Comers U18 Hawks beat Wem Town U18 3–1. In the Salop Leisure League Division One Cup Final, Allscott Heath Reserves produced a dominant display to defeat Ercall Rangers 7–1.
Next, Ellesmere Rangers Ladies edged Shrewsbury Up & Comers The SFA Saturday Youth Cup Final Ladies 4–3 in a thrilling Women’s saw Telford Town FC U18 Girls beat League Cup final. Shrewsbury Up & Comers U17 Hawks Girls 3–0..
CUP FINAL RECAP
The cup final fortnight concluded with the Shropshire Saturday Challenge Cup Final, where Dawley Town overcame Wrockwardine Wood Juniors Development. After leading 3–0 at half-time, Dawley secured victory with Dan Beddows completing a hat-trick to seal the win. Overall, the 16-day festival of finals showcased the very best of grassroots football across Shropshire, highlighting talent, determination, and community spirit
Thank you to our Cup Final Sponsors
The Shropshire FA Grassroots Awards will take place at Croud Meadow on 10 July, bringing together volunteers from across the county. The evening is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the incredible commitment, passion and hard work of the volunteers who make grassroots football possible. From those who give up countless hours behind the scenes to those leading teams and inspiring players on and off the pitch, these awards shine a spotlight on the individuals who make a real difference to the game in Shropshire. The nominations for this year's awards are as follows: Club of the Year Bridgnorth Spartans Nova United Football Club Shifnal Girls Football Club League Of the Year Furrows Girls League Shropshire Junior Football League Telford Junior League Match Official of the Year Ava James Dom Gardner Harrison Edgley Young Volunteer of the Year Isla Morgan-Callear & Peyton Roberts, Izzy Keates, Ella Keates & Eva Watkins Nevaeh - Mai Taylor
Grassroots Awards Shortlist SHORTLISTED NOMINEES
Grounds Team of the Year Dave Trainter John Gaff Shawbury United (Pete Berry & Steve) New Volunteer of the Year Dimitar Marinov Rachael Green Tom Langford Positive Behaviour Award Gill Callear-Morgan Kyle Grazier Mark Barr Coach of the Year Female Pathway Andy Pryor Anne Johnson Karla Kostka Coach of the Year Disability Pathway James Harrison Lee Chatburn Simon Lee Coach of the Year Male Pathway Jon Arnold Kevin Smart Sam Jones The Lioness Award Donna Woodvine Kieran Mountford Ruby-Mae Brothwood
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER 26 SPORT MAGAZINE
Bobby Moore Award Aimee Meredith-Jones Alex Edwards Lynsey Evans
Thank You A massive well done and thank you to all the officials involved in this year’s cup finals. Whether you were in the middle, running the line or acting as fourth official, every Shropshire FA official did the county proud. It was great to see so many different faces out across the fixtures.
June, 2026
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TJ Vickers Announced as New Sponsors of The Shropshire County League The Shropshire Football Association is delighted to announce a new three-year partnership with TJ Vickers, they have been established since 1962 and are one of Shropshire's most successful family owned and run dealerships with locations in Telford and Shrewsbury. TJ Vickers are excited to become the new title sponsors of The Shropshire County League, formerly known as the Salop Leisure League. As part of the agreement, the competition will enter a new era, with the Premier Division carrying the lead title name in partnership with Chinese automotive manufacturer Changan Automobile, as TJ Vickers promote their exciting new vehicle partnership across the county’s football community. The agreement also sees TJ Vickers extend their valued support of the prestigious Shropshire FA Challenge Cup as main sponsor, further strengthening the dealership’s longstanding commitment to grassroots football in Shropshire. The sponsorship represents a significant investment into local football and will support the continued development and profile of one of the county’s most historic and competitive leagues. Mat Cole of TJ Vickers said: “We are absolutely delighted to extend our partnership with Shropshire FA and become the new sponsors of The
Shropshire County League. Grassroots football plays such an important role within local communities, and we are proud to support competitions that provide opportunities for so many players, volunteers and clubs across the county. “This partnership also provides a fantastic platform to promote our exciting new relationship with Changan, whilst strengthening our existing Fiat and Suzuki ranges and we are looking forward to working closely with the league and Shropshire FA over the next three years.” Andy Weston, Chief Executive of Shropshire Football Association, added: “We are thrilled to welcome TJ Vickers as the new title sponsors of The Shropshire County League and are incredibly grateful for their continued support of the Shropshire FA Challenge Cup “This is a significant partnership for football in the county and demonstrates TJ Vickers’ commitment to supporting grassroots football at all levels. Their investment will help us continue to develop and promote the league, whilst also supporting clubs and participants across Shropshire. “We are excited to begin this new chapter together and look forward to building a strong partnership over the next three years.”
Salop Leisure to Conclude Sponsorship of the Salop Leisure League After Six Years
Shropshire Football Association can confirm that Salop Leisure will conclude its title sponsorship of the Salop Leisure League at the end of the current season, bringing to a close a successful six-year partnership. Since becoming title sponsor, Salop Leisure has played a key role in supporting grassroots football across the county, helping to enhance the profile, organisation, and sustainability of the league. Their investment has contributed to improved playing opportunities and a stronger football community for clubs, players, and volunteers. Ed Glover, speaking on behalf of Salop Leisure, said: “Over the past six years, it has been a privilege for Salop Leisure to support grassroots football through our
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partnership with the Salop Leisure League. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved during this time and the positive impact the league continues to have within the local football community. While our sponsorship is coming to an end, we remain strong supporters of football in Shropshire and wish the league every success for the future.” Andy Weston added: “On behalf of everyone at Shropshire FA, I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Salop Leisure for their outstanding support over the past six years. Their commitment has been instrumental in the development and success of the league, and their backing has directly benefited clubs and participants across the county. We are extremely grateful to Tony Bywater and Ed Glover for their partnership and support, and we wish them all the very best moving forward.”
Score goals, win a £1,000 donation! Inject the excitement and drama of the World Cup into your fundraising. Your club or team could win a £1,000 donation if you play easyfundraising’s Top Scorer game this month! You need to register your club or team with easyfundraising for free, and invite your club community to become your supporters so they can play too. Score as many goals in the virtual net as you can in 30 seconds, while avoiding the yellow and red cards. No matter how well you score, each time you and your club community play between 1528 June, is an extra entry to win a £1,000 donation. Make the top 5 on the daily scores leaderboard and there’s a chance to win up to a £200 bonus prize, too. To enter, join easyfundraising https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/shropshire-fa/. If you already, log in to your profile to play from 15th June.
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Future Fit 3v3 Future Fit is up and running! There are exciting changes coming to Youth Football and many of them are already getting the thumbs up. We’re tailoring the game to fit young players even better, to make sure every game is more meaningful. For the 2026/27 season, 3v3 will become the entry format for U7s and the players are already loving it. It means more goals, more touches and more celebrations, giving everyone the chance to take part in game without long stints on the sideline. Club coaches are also noticing a difference. They say it’s been an easy format to run and introduce, whilst ramping up player development and keeping things light. We’ll also be introducing 11v11 at U14s this season, and focusing on smaller formats that make players move more until then. The laws of the game are being tweaked to give more ball-in-play time too, so they match the age of the players. Where it’s already being played on the field, it’s gone down well. To find out more – head to the web https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/index.html
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Sleep Out Under the Stars Join STFC Foundation for a special night under the stars at Croud Meadow and help raise vital funds for the STFC Foundation. This is an opportunity to challenge yourself and your team by spending the night pitch-side, all in support of an incredible cause. The evening will begin with a stadium tour at 7:30pm, followed by a live World Cup screening for those who want to enjoy the action before settling in for the night outdoors. In the morning, there will be hot drinks and bacon rolls ready before you head off. Why not bring along colleagues, friends, or teammates and take on the challenge together? Minimum sponsorship: £100 per person Link to Just Giving link below. https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/sleepoutcroudmeadow? utm_medium=CA&utm_source=CL Email Ruth.Pemberton@foundationstfc.co.uk to sign up.
Sign up Here
Meet the Shropshire FA Team 2 High Street, Dawley, Telford, Shropshire,TF4 2ET 01743 362769 info@shropshirefa.com https://www.shropshirefa.com/ @ShropshireFA shropsfa Shropshire Football Association
Andy Weston CEO & Senior Safeguarding Lead
Zoe Vernall Head of Football Services
Sam Griffiths Designated Safeguarding Officer
Kemi Smallman Football Services Administrator
James Salliss Grassroots Services Administrator
Lawrence Wilson Football Participation Officer (Coaching & Development)
Shropshire FA
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2 High Street, Dawley, Telford, Shropshire,TF4 2ET 01743 362769 info@shropshirefa.com https://www.shropshirefa.com/ @ShropshireFA shropsfa Shropshire Football Association
Tom Wellings Football Participation Officer (Referees & Facilities)
Dylan Shinton Football Participation Officer (Club Development and Pathways)
Shropshire FA
Luke Flindall Digital Media & Participation Administrator
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Grassroots Football Partnerships Why Purpose Is the New Game Changer The world of sport sponsorship and brand activation is undergoing a seismic shift. Brands are no longer content with simply slapping their logo on a stadium hoarding or a player’s kit and hoping for maximum impressions. Today’s landscape demands more - more meaning, more impact, more purpose. As fans become increasingly value-driven, brands must pivot towards campaigns that prioritise social impact. Nowhere is this more evident than in the grassroots sports space, where the emotional and cultural stakes are at their highest. Football at its core has always been about more than just winning. On local pitches across the UK, grassroots football brings kids, parents, coaches and volunteers together in ways that go far beyond sport. It’s here, in muddy boots and on community sidelines, that the game shapes culture and builds futures. The Rise of the Socially Conscious Fan Supporters today aren’t passive spectators. They’re engaged, connected and deeply invested in the issues that shape both their communities and the game they love. From inclusivity and mental health to tackling racism and climate action, fans expect the clubs and brands involved in grassroots football to stand for something real. In fact, research shows more than 70% of UK sports fans believe sponsorship should promote positive social change - a figure that rises even higher among Gen Z and Millennial fans. For grassroots football, this isn’t just a trend; it’s a cultural shift. Families now expect action, not just advertising. Why Purpose Works - For Football and for Brands Cause-led parentships and sponsorship aren’t just good for the game - but good for business. SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
Here’s why: Authenticity builds trust - Communities know when brands are serious and when they’re faking it. Supporting real issues earns long-term respect. Purpose sparks engagement - Stories rooted in values are the ones people talk about and share, both locally and nationally. Stand out in a crowded market - With so many brands chasing visibility, purpose-driven sponsorship cuts through the noise. Inspire from the inside out - Employees, volunteers and partners want to be part of something meaningful. Purpose energises teams as much as fans. How Brands Can Deliver Purpose in Grassroots Football For those ready to step onto the grassroots pitch with real intent, a few principles stand out: Listen first: Ask players, teams, referees and families about the challenges they face. Build campaigns with them, not just for them. Partner wisely: Work with governing bodies, leagues and charities who already have trust on the ground. Think beyond matchday: Legacy projects - from workshops to online resources -leave an impact long after the final whistle Beyond Sponsorship: A Shared Responsibility For brands, the lesson is clear: don’t just show up with a badge. Roll up your sleeves, step into the community and make a lasting difference. Because when football sponsorship moves beyond visibility and into real impact, everyone benefits - the players, the clubs, the fans and the sponsors themselves. Final Word The future of grassroots football sponsorship isn’t about being the biggest logo on the pitch. It’s about being the brand that shows up, listens and makes change happen. And in that future, purpose isn’t just an advantage. It’s the whole game.
Advertise in the Shropshire FA Digital Magazine - Connect With the Heart of Local Football The Shropshire FA Digital Magazine is where the county’s football community comes together. Every month, thousands of players, parents, coaches, clubs, volunteers, supporters and businesses read our publication to stay up to date with the latest news, stories and developments in grassroots football. Now, we’re opening up exclusive advertising opportunities for businesses looking to reach a loyal, engaged and diverse audience. Why Advertise With Us? Placing your advert in our digital magazine gives your business: Direct access to a large, highly engaged local audience Brand visibility across the entire Shropshire football community A platform that aligns your business with positive, community-focused sport Flexible advert sizes and placements to suit different budgets and goal Whether you’re aiming to raise brand awareness, promote a new service, or connect with families and local communities, advertising with Shropshire FA is a powerful way to get your message heard. Get Involved Spaces are limited each month, so if your business wants to feature in an upcoming issue, we’d love to hear from you. Contact To discuss advertising options please contact: Shropshire FA CEO, Andy Weston on 07435 960651 or via email Andy.Weston@ShropshireFA.com. Promote your business while supporting grassroots football across Shropshire - a winning partnership on and off the pitch.
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Room Hire
Are you looking for room hire in Shropshire for your next meeting, training course, or workshop? At Shropshire FA, we offer modern facilities that can be tailored to suit your needs, including a fully equipped Training Room and a professional Boardroom. Training Room Hire in Shropshire Our Training Room is a versatile space, ideal for: Staff training and development sessions Workshops and seminars Coaching courses and community events Boardroom Hire in Shropshire If you need a space for more formal meetings, our Boardroom provides the ideal setting. Suitable for: Team meetings Client presentations Interviews and strategy sessions Enquiries & Booking For more details about meeting room hire in Shropshire or to book our facilities, please contact:
📧 zoe.vernall@shropshirefa.com
SHROPSHIRE FA LAUNCHES NEW BUSINESS PARTNER BROCHURE A GAME-CHANGING OPPORTUNITY TO BACK GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL AND COMMUNITIES The Shropshire FA is proud to unveil its brand-new Business Partner Brochure, presenting a powerful invitation to businesses and organisations that want to invest in more than just sport - but in community, inclusion and opportunity. With over 13,000 players, 170 clubs, 1,000 teams, and 6,000 dedicated volunteers, Shropshire FA is the beating heart of football in the county. But its impact goes far beyond the pitch. Backed by a mission to improve lives through football, the newly launched brochure offers bespoke partnership opportunities that deliver not only high visibility but also lasting social impact. “This is more than sponsorship – it’s about shaping the future of football in our communities,” says Andy Weston, CEO at Shropshire FA. “We’re offering organisations the chance to be part of something powerful, authentic and deeply rooted in Shropshire life.” A Responsible Investment in People and Place
The Opportunities That Go Beyond Branding Partnership options include: Exclusive naming rights for competitions and county-wide initiatives. Targeted exposure through events, digital campaigns and community outreach. Participation in landmark events like County Cup Finals and the Annual Grassroots Awards. Hospitality packages and national football experiences that bring tangible value back to your team. Driving Measurable Impact As part of its bold 2024–2028 Strategy, and looking ahead to its 150th anniversary in 2027, Shropshire FA is focused on increasing its impact in local communities. With a current £128 million estimated social return on investment, the evidence is clear: football changes lives. Now, businesses have the chance to become part of a legacy that blends purpose with performance. Join the Movement By becoming a Shropshire FA Business Partner, you’re not only gaining exposure -you are investing in community wellbeing, youth empowerment and inclusive opportunity across the county. To view the brochure and explore how your organisation can be a force for good through football, visit link SFA Partner Brochure 2025 Print.pdf
The Business Partner Brochure outlines meaningful ways for organisations to demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) while aligning with one of the region’s most accessible and values-driven sporting bodies. Partners will be directly supporting: Youth development programmes that nurture life skills, resilience and leadership. Disability football initiatives that champion inclusion and opportunity. Volunteer and referee training, helping grow a sustainable, skilled grassroots network. Facility development, ensuring safer, more welcoming environments for all.
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To view the brochure and explore how your organisation can be a force for good through football, visit link SFA Partner Brochure 2025 Print.pdf
OUR EXISTING PARTNERS NATALIE PIETRZYK, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SEAH “Supporting grassroots football is at the heart of what we do. Our ongoing partnership with Shropshire FA means we can directly contribute to the growth and success of local football communities.” MARY BRANDRICK, GENERAL MANAGER AT MARK HARROD LTD. “The girls’ game is continuing to grow and more girls are playing. At Furrows, we felt this was an ideal opportunity to get involved and be part of something that can only grow and improve.” ANTONY FROST, DIRECTOR & DEALER PRINCIPAL AT FURROWS Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so many young people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FA Grassroots Awards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.” MATT WINFIELD, MCDONALD’S – ERASMUS RESTAURANTS. “Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so many young people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FA Grassroots Awards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.”
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Safeguarding Team 2 High Street, Dawley, Telford, Shropshire,TF4 2ET Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) Sam Griffiths sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com 01743 362769 / 07918764766
01743 362769 Iinfo@shropshirefa.com https://www.shropshirefa.com/ @ShropshireFA
Sam Griffiths - Designated Safeguarding Officer
shropsfa Shropshire Football Association
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Officer (DDSO) Tom Wellings tom.wellings@shropshirefa.com 01743 362769 / 07719047701
Shropshire FA
Tom Wellings - Referees & Facilities
Senior Safeguarding Lead (SSL) Andy Weston andy.weston@shropshirefa.com 01743 362769
Andy Weston - CEO & Senior Safeguarding Lead
Deputy Senior Safeguarding Lead (DSSL) Zoe Vernall zoe.vernall@shropshirefa.com 01743 362769 / 07736 956038
Zoe Vernall - Head of Football Services
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Club Welfare Officer Weekly Appointments New weekly Booking System 1to-1 Time with Shropshire FA DSO Sam Griffiths
We're pleased to announce a new opportunity for Club Welfare Officers to book a dedicated appointment with our Designated Safeguarding Officer, Sam Griffiths, every Thursday afternoon between 1pm and 4pm. These sessions are available face-to-face or via Microsoft Teams and are designed to offer a space for: Asking any safeguarding-related questions Getting support with club welfare matters Having a general catch-up on a one-to-one basis Whether you need advice, clarification, or simply a chat, this is your chance to connect directly with Sam in a confidential and supportive setting. To book your appointment, please use the form below: https://forms.gle/KmKoySsFUU1rnzk56
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