SHROPSHIREFA
INSIDETHISISSUE
FROM TELFORD TO THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE
This month’s football feature shines a spotlight on one of our most exciting young talents – 15-year-old Leon Huxley from Aqueduct, in Telford
CELEBRATINGWOMENIN SHROPSHIREGRASSROOTS FOOTBALL
INTERNATIONALWOMEN’S DAY2026
This International Women’s Day, Shropshire FA proudly celebrates all the incredible women who power grassroots football across our county, from coaches and referees to club secretaries, welfare officers, volunteers, players and administrators
BUILDING EXCELLENCE
SHROPSHIRE FA AND THE CORE PROGRAMME
A new era for refereeing development has arrived in Shropshire, bringing with it unprecedented opportunities for ambitious match officials 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
FromTelford totheInternational Stage
This month’s football feature shines a spotlight on one of our most exciting young talents – 15-year-old Leon Huxley from Aqueduct, in Telford.
Shropshire FA caught up with Leon on his return from a playing trip to Cyprus with the Wales U16 squad to talk about his football journey, school life, family support and his dreams for the future.
Leon Huxley, who represents Wolverhampton Wanderers U16s and the Wales national under-16 team, has always loved football.
“I’ve loved football since I was two, when I first learnt to kick a ball,” Leon said.
Growing up in Aqueduct, Telford, football was a family affair. His older brother Cody (20) would spend hours playing outside with him, while his dad Dean passed down his passion for the game, and his support for Manchester United.
Leon’s journey began with Sunday League side NC United at just six years old. In his first season, he collected both Players’ Player and Manager’s Player awards, early signs of a special talent.
A Wolves scout, who was also Leon’s NC coach, recommended him for a trial. At just seven, Leon balanced playing for NC United while training with Wolves. Then in March 2019, came the moment every young footballer dreams of - Wolves offered him his first contract.
“All the hard work, dedication and determination had paid off,” says Leon.
Hard Work Behind the Scenes
Leon’s development at Wolves goes far beyond matchdays. Training at Compton Park up to five days a week, alongside gym sessions, performance analysis and regular coach reviews, his schedule is physically and mentally demanding.
He studies his performances through Hudl clips, learning to analyse both positives and areas for improvement. He’s also developed key life skills.
“Football has helped me regulate my emotions, be patient and respect others, and myself.”
is progress has been impressive: Pre-scholarship signed July 2023
Played up for Wolves U18s Youngest Player in Tournament award in Italy (April 2023) Faced European giants including AFC Ajax, AC Milan and FC Barcelona
Recently signed with agency Sports Entertainment Group (SEG)
A left-footed defender, Leon primarily plays at left-back but has also operated as a CDM this season.
“I’m good at reading the game. I’d say my biggest strength is my technical ability. I look up to Marcelo.”
Eligible to represent Wales through his grandfather, Leon began attending trials at Colliers Park in Wrexham at 14. For a year, his grandad made the journey every 6 to 8 weeks for two-day camps.
Eventually, Leon earned selection and has since featured against Spain, France, Scotland, Cyprus, Romania, Iceland and Bulgaria.
His recent trip to Cyprus saw him play against Romania, Scotland and Cyprus –his furthest journey yet for football.
But one moment stands above the rest.
In December 2025, Leon received his first official cap in the post, awarded for his appearance against France earlier that year.
“It was such an honour. Pulling on the Wales shirt is a proud moment for me and my family.”
Balancing Football and School
Leon is currently a student at Thomas Telford School, where staff fully support his dual ambitions. The school recently nominated him for an award recognising his achievement in representing his country, and he has also helped the school team lift a national trophy.
His daily routine is relentless despite his GCSEs being just weeks away. Leaving home at 7:40am, Leon often doesn’t return until 9pm. Through Wolves’ ‘day release’ programme, he trains at Compton one day a week while continuing his education.
He also attends additional ‘session 3’ lessons and even weekend school sessions to stay on track for his GCSEs.
Favourite subjects? PE and Art.
“Football’s helped me in school – it’s built my confidence and taught me that everyone deserves a shot.”
The Family Behind the Dream
Behind every young athlete is a strong support system, and Leon is quick to credit his mum Leanne, dad Dean and brothers Cody and Jobe-James (7).
On matchdays, preparation begins the night before with hydration and an early night.
Parents arrive early for the game with nerves building.
“We never stand together,” Leanne laughs. “We don’t even know if he’ll play, but we’re proud either way.”
After matches, the family reflect together, reviewing Hudl clips, discussing positives and areas to improve.
“My parents are my biggest supporters, but also my biggest critics,” Leon says with a grin.
While weekends and family time revolve around football, the Huxleys wouldn’t change a thing.
“We’d do it all again for any of our boys.”
Dreams, Ambitions & A Back-Up Plan Leon’s short-term goal is to secure sponsorship. His ultimate dream?
“To become a professional footballer.”
In five years’ time he sees himself playing the game at the highest level. But he’s also grounded.
“But if football isn’t to be my full-time career, then I’d be an architect. My parents have always told me to have a back-up plan.”
Outside football, Leon enjoys other sports, music and spending time with friends.
His biggest inspirations? His parents off the pitch and his coaches on it.
Leon’s Message to Young Players “Keep pushing. Work hard. Dreams do come true.”
From kicking a ball at two years old in the garden at home to earning his first Welsh cap and competing across Europe, Leon Huxley’s journey is only just beginning.
Shropshire football will be watching closely.
Building Excellence
SHROPSHIRE FA AND
THE CORE PROGRAMME
A new era for refereeing development has arrived in Shropshire, bringing with it unprecedented opportunities for ambitious match officials. Refereeing has long been the backbone of grassroots football, and with a growing number of referees across the county, Shropshire FA has embraced The FA's Centre of Refereeing Excellence (CORE) programme, a transformative national initiative that is reshaping how talented referees are identified, supported and developed across England.
For referees in Shropshire with ambition and potential, CORE represents something significant: a structured, professionally delivered pathway that can take them from county football all the way to the national stage.
The FA CORE programme is the national framework for refereeing talent development. Delivered in partnership with the Premier League and the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), it operates through a tiered structure spanning five levels, supporting referees from Level 7 through to the semi-professional game.
What sets CORE apart is its commitment to quality and consistency. Every referee on the programme receives season-long support from experienced officials and coaches who act as their primary point of contact. This isn't just about improving match performance; it's about developing confident, resilient and professional officials capable of handling the demands of higher-level football.
The programme is built on clear principles: focus, commitment, professionalism, fitness and a genuine desire to improve. Referees are selected based on potential, not postcodes. Regardless of age, gender or background, those who demonstrate the right standards and attitude will be given the opportunity to progress.
A National Performance Centre
At the pinnacle of the CORE structure sits the newly launched National Performance Centre, home to the top referee prospects in the country.
Selected through rigorous scouting, performance analysis and expert evaluation, these officials are immersed in a high-performance environment designed to accelerate their journey into elite football.
Significantly, the first cohort includes ten female match officials and 20 per cent from Black, Asian and Mixed Heritage backgrounds.
This reflects The FA's determination to build a refereeing community that truly represents modern football, supported by targeted talent identification events and inclusive programmes such as CORE X, delivered alongside BAMREF and PGMO.
The Shropshire Connection
While the national vision sets the direction, CORE's true impact unfolds at the regional and county level.
In Shropshire, the programme is guided by Rob Lewis, a former Premier League and FIFA international assistant referee and EFL referee.
As part of the national core, which the county core feeds into, Shropshire's officials now benefit from enhanced coaching support, tailored educational pathways and ongoing mentorship.
The county has gained a particular advantage through the involvement of Rob Lewis, whose participation adds essential insight and practical experience for officials starting their journey.
One young Shropshire referee already experiencing the benefits is Oliver Fones, who recently attended a taster day at the FA's National Performance Centre.
During the session, Oli took part in a fitness test and a laws of the game workshop, gaining a firsthand look at what it takes to be part of the elite development pathway.
For Oli and others like him, the message is clear: talent will be recognised and opportunity will follow.
A Strategy for Growth CORE sits within The FA's wider refereeing strategy, To Grow, Guide, and Govern, launched in July 2023. This three-year plan outlines clear actions to diversify the refereeing pathway, expand bursary schemes, deliver more courses and improve representation within leadership roles across officiating.
Howard Webb, Chief Refereeing Officer at PGMO, said the initiative represents "a significant and progressive step which underlines the commitment to refereeing in England. The identification of talent and development are at the core of aligned pathways between the grassroots and professional game."
Looking Ahead
The introduction of CORE across Shropshire is more than just a programme launch. It's a statement of intent. Talented referees in the county will be identified, supported and given every opportunity to progress. With strong local leadership, experienced mentors and a nationally aligned structure, the future for Shropshire referees has never looked brighter.
For those with the ambition, dedication and passion to reach the top, the pathway is now clear. The next generation of elite match officials could well be taking their first steps right here in Shropshire.
KitlockerSupports
ShropshireFA’s“WearRed
The Shropshire FA were thrilled to announce that Kitlocker, the UK’s leading football kit supplier, supported the county’s Heart Month initiative by donating Red Nike shirts for the SFA team in support of “Wear Red to Training Week.”
From Monday 23rd February, clubs and businesses across Shropshire traded their usual training kits for red in a united show of support for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) - raising awareness and vital funds for life-saving heart research.
Kitlocker’s generous donation ensured the team at Shropshire FA became part of the action at their Telford office with their own iconic Nike red shirts.
Shropshire FA’s safeguarding officer Sam Griffiths said, “We are incredibly grateful to Kitlocker for their support. Their donation of our ‘Team Red’ Nike shirts allowed us to proudly wear red and join in the fundraising during the week, while raising funds during Heart Month.
The initiative was an idea that came from the Shropshire FA Youth Council, as youngsters called on Shropshire grassroots clubs and businesses to join the campaign.
To help the Shropshire FA team raise funds for the British Heart Foundation click on the link to donate here: https://shorturl.at/bemJo
Celebrating Womenin Shropshire Grassroots Football
This International Women’s Day, Shropshire FA proudly celebrates all the incredible women who power grassroots football across our county, from coaches and referees to club secretaries, welfare officers, volunteers, players and administrators
Across Shropshire, women are shaping the future of the game They are organising fixtures on kitchen tables, leading training sessions under floodlights, safeguarding young players, mentoring the next generation and ensuring every club remains at the heart of its community Their dedication, resilience and leadership embody this year’s International Women’s Day theme – ‘Give To Gain’
Thanks to our landmark partnership with SEAH, over 2500 women and girls are supported across the female game in Shropshire
Grassroots football does not thrive by chance It thrives because of people And throughout Shropshire, women are at the centre of that success story.
Stronger Together
Like a modern-day “Charlie’s Angels,” Zoe, Sam and Kemi each bring unique strengths, governance, safeguarding and operational excellence, but it is their collective impact, alongside the countless women across our clubs and leagues, that truly powers football in Shropshire
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate their leadership, resilience and commitment. Behind every safe matchday, every registered player and every supported club, stands a network of women driving progress, championing standards and inspiring the next generation
Here’s to all women in Shropshire grassroots football - and to Shropshire FA’s Angelsprotecting, guiding and strengthening the beautiful game across our county
YouHave theWhistle
AN INTERVIEWWITH FEMALE REFEREE, FRANKIE RUHE
At just 18 years old, Frankie Ruhe is already making waves in the world of football refereeing.
Based in Shifnal and raised in Bridgnorth, her journey from grassroots football to officiating in the Women’s National League is nothing short of inspiring.
We sat down with Frankie to talk about her journey, her ambitions, and why young referees are the future of the game.
Frankie grew up in Bridgnorth and attended Bridgnorth Endowed School. Now based in Shifnal, she recently celebrated her 18th birthday, but despite her young age, she already has four years of refereeing experience under her belt.
“I first got involved in refereeing after speaking with a referee at my sister's game,” Frankie explains. “She shared how she got started and pointed me towards the referee course.”
That simple conversation sparked what has become a defining passion.
“I still remember my first game with the U8s, it was Nova Stars vs Bridgnorth Boys,” she recalls. “I was nervous, but I knew refereeing was for me because I love helping children learn and progress.”
Since that first whistle, Frankie has gone on to officiate both women’s and men’s matches.
She has also served several times as an assistant referee in the Women's National League, an achievement that once felt almost impossible when she first started.
“It felt like a dream opportunity,” she says. “But now it feels achievable.”
The Power of Support
Behind every confident referee is a strong support network and Frankie is quick to acknowledge hers.
“My family has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey,” she shares. She also credits appointment secretary Shaun Currall and county CORE coach Rob Lewis.
“They have always encouraged me and pushed me to excel because they believed in my potential.”
Frankie is part of the CORE programme, a structured development pathway for referees with high potential to progress. Through the programme, she has gained access to structured training, video analysis, fitness development and mentorship.
“It’s equipped me with essential skills and greater enthusiasm. It’s provided the right resources to be more confident and successful in my games, which has led to opportunities to officiate in Cup and National League matches.”
Staying Calm Under Pressure
High-pressure games are part of the job, but Frankie approaches them with composure.
“In big games, I manage by communicating with my assistants or even the players on the pitch. Clear communication helps keep everything calm.”
For Frankie, refereeing isn’t just about enforcing the rules, it’s about teamwork.
“What I love most is connecting with other referees. It’s a chance to gain knowledge, build confidence, and offer support. We all work together as a team.”
Representing Shropshire FA is something Frankie speaks about with pride.
“It means the world to me. I feel valued, respected and appreciated. All concerns and questions are addressed, so I never feel left in the dark. The community is an amazing team.”
Advice to Young Referees
Frankie is passionate about encouraging young people to pick up the whistle.
“I believe it’s crucial to encourage young referees to get involved, they are the future of the sport.”
Her advice?
“Always trust yourself and stand by your decisions. By not hesitating, you’ll have a calm game. Confidence is key.”
She adds with a smile:
“Remember, YOU have the whistle and the final say.”
Refereeing, she says, teaches resilience and openmindedness, qualities that extend far beyond the pitch.
Looking Ahead
Frankie, currently at college studying business and looking to move into an apprenticeship in dental nursing, also works part time as a waitress at the Park House Hotel in Shifnal
So where does Frankie see herself in five years?
“In the Women's Super League,” she says confidently. “It’s always been a dream of mine.”
With the support system around her and her dedication to development, that dream feels increasingly within reach.
Final Whistle
If she could leave young referees with one lasting message, it would be this:
“Keep persevering. Show up to every game. And most importantly, enjoy the experience.”
Because, as Frankie reminds us: “Football simply wouldn’t exist without referees showing up every weekend.”
CelebratingWomenin Football:AGrassroots StoryofDedication, CommunityandBelief
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Shropshire FA is proud to shine a light on the incredible women who dedicate their time, passion and energy to grassroots football. Among them is Michelle Rutter, a coach, mum and club leader whose journey reflects the very best of our local football community at Wrockwardine Wood Football Club.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Shropshire FA is proud to shine a light on the incredible women who dedicate their time, passion and energy to grassroots football. Among them is Michelle Rutter, a coach, mum and club leader whose journey reflects the very best of our local football community at Wrockwardine Wood Football Club.
A Life in Grassroots Football
With her eldest son turning 21 this year and having played for Wrockwardine Wood since Under-7s, Michelle’s connection to grassroots football stretches back to 2011. For years, she supported from the sidelines, but in 2019 she stepped into a new role that would shape the next chapter of her football journey.
When the club faced the possibility of a girls’ team folding due to the manager stepping down, she was asked if she would take it on. Planning to help for just one season, she quickly discovered a passion for coaching and remained with the squad all the way through to their Under-16s campaign in 2025.
Her own childhood experience was very different. Growing up, there were no local girls’ teams, so she trained and played with the boys but never had the opportunity to represent a girls’ side in competitive matches. Today, she is proud to help ensure the next generation of girls don’t face the same limitations.
More Than a Coach
Away from football, Michelle works with pre-school children and has spent 12 years volunteering at her children’s primary school, coaching football, rounders and supporting a range sports. Living in Sambrook, just outside Newport, community has always been at the heart of everything she does.
At Wrockwardine Wood, her roles extend far beyond managing a team. She is:
Manager/Coach of the Adult Development Team
Support coach for the Under-16 boys when needed
Vice Chair of the club
For her, football is about far more than results. It’s about creating a safe, friendly environment where players of all ages can grow in confidence - on and off the pitch.
Family, Football and Community Football truly is a family affair. Her three sons, aged 20, 19 and 15, all play for the club. They are also qualified referees, with Wrockwardine Wood supporting them as they officiate younger age groups to help build their confidence and leadership skills.
Her youngest even began volunteering in the club’s crèche for his Duke of Edinburgh Award and has continued helping two years later.
“It’s like being part of a family,” she explains. “That’s why I took on the Vice Chair role, to help keep the club moving forward and ensure as many children, young people and adults as possible have the opportunity to play football in a safe and supportive environment.”
The club actively encourages aspiring coaches to gain their Level 1 qualifications and get involved, creating pathways not only for players, but for leaders too.
Breaking Barriers in the Women’s Game
When Michelle first began managing the girls’ team, female coaches were still in the minority. Although she had a female assistant by her side, most opposition teams were led by men. Occasionally, they encountered questioning looks and comments about their football knowledge.
But times are changing.
Nationally, the women’s game has grown significantly, particularly following the success of the England women's national football team in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. Increased investment, record participation numbers and greater visibility of female referees and managers are helping reshape perceptions.
At club level, there is still work to do. Wrockwardine Wood currently has one dedicated girls’ team, alongside many girls thriving in mixed teams. The ambition is clear: to establish girls’ teams at every age group and
to welcome more female coaches and managers into the game.
She also highlights the importance of improving facilities and understanding the realities female players face, from periods to pregnancy and breastfeeding, and ensuring grassroots clubs are equipped with essentials such as period packs to properly support women and girls in football.
Proud Moments on and Off the Pitch
Across her coaching journey, there have been many memorable milestones:
Managing three teams simultaneously, the girls’ side, her son’s Under-17s and Under-18s, and the Adult Development Team.
Winning both the Under-18s League and League Cup, with her eldest son as Assistant Manager and another son as team captain. Guiding her girls’ team to a cup final.
Watching former players progress into the women’s game, running over at half-time to thank her for coming to support them.
Seeing the Adult Development Team reach the County Cup semi-finals this season, with two of her sons playing.
Celebrating her youngest son’s Under-16 side reaching the Super Cup final.
Yet for her, the proudest moments often come quietly - seeing confidence grow, leadership develop and players recognise their own strengths.
A Coaching Philosophy Built on Respect
Her approach to coaching is simple but powerful: Every player has a voice. Players are invited to reflect after games and during training. Captains’ armbands are rotated to give everyone the chance to lead.
Strengths are recognised and nurtured.
Respect is always shown - and expected in return.
“I believe making players understand their strengths within a team is paramount,” she says. “If you give respect, you earn respect.”
Inspired by Women Who Lead
Michelle credits Tina Williams, Secretary of Wrockwardine Wood Football Club, for her continued guidance and encouragement, particularly in supporting her move into the Vice Chair role.
She also reflects fondly on her secondary school PE teacher, whose encouragement and confidencebuilding approach left a lasting impression, a model she now strives to emulate with her own players.
Advice to the Next Generation
For young girls and women considering coaching, her message is clear:
Be confident and approachable.
Stay open-minded.
Believe you are just as capable as anyone else.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Treat everyone equally.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, resonates deeply with her. She lives by the belief that by giving others confidence and belief in their ability, everyone benefits.
“Every day is a school day,” Michelle says. “We learn from each other.”
Looking Ahead
Her vision for the future is ambitious but rooted in community: Girls’ teams at every age group. More female coaches and managers.
Clearer development pathways, especially for rural areas.
Stronger links to education and football programmes.
A club culture where everyone, from committee members to players, feels safe, valued and supported.
Balancing football with work and family life can be challenging. But in a football-loving household built on mutual support, they continue to make it work, always finding time to step away from the pitch and simply enjoy being together.
On International Women’s Day, stories like this remind us that grassroots football thrives not only because of trophies and finals, but because of the women who give their time, belief and heart to the game.
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Evenmorefree fundingin-store!
There’s good news in-store for our teams!
Your team can now benefit when your community do their weekly big shop at Tesco, take a trip to John Lewis, indulge in Hotel Chocolat and more thanks to easyfundraising. Already over £9m has been given to sports causes UK wide, simply through supporters shopping online and collecting free cashback donations – but in 2026, easyfundraising is on offer in-store at selected retailers, too. A yearround source of funding for equipment, facility hire, overheads and all the other costs that are so challenging to fundraise for.
If you’re not using easyfundraising yet, join today at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/shropshire-fa/.
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
AndyWeston CEO&Senior SafeguardingLead
SamGriffiths DesignatedSafeguarding Officer
James Salliss Grassroots Services Administrator
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LukeFlindall DigitalMedia&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.
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.
Advertiseinthe ShropshireFADigital Magazine-Connect WiththeHeartof LocalFootball
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
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 Business Partner Brochure outlines meaningful ways for organisations to demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) while aligning with one of the region’s most accessible and values-driven sporting bodies.
Partners will be directly supporting:
Youth development programmes that nurture life skills, resilience and leadership
Disability football initiatives that champion inclusion and opportunity.
The Opportunities That Go Beyond
Partnership options include:
Volunteer and referee training, helping grow a sustainable, skilled grassroots network
Facility development, ensuring safer, more welcoming environments for all
Exclusive naming rights for competitions and county-wide initiatives
Targeted exposure through events, digital campaigns and community outreach.
Participation in landmark events like County Cup Finals and the Annual Grassroots Awards
Hospitality packages and national football experiences that bring tangible value back to your team.
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
OUR EXISTING PARTNERS
NATALIE PIETRZYK, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SEAH
“Supporting grassroots football is at the heart ofwhat we do. Our ongoing partnership with Shropshire FA means we can directly contribute to the growth and success of local football communities.”
MARYBRANDRICK, GENERAL MANAGERAT MARK HARROD LTD.
“The girls’ game is continuing to grow and more girls are playing.At Furrows, we felt this was an ideal opportunity to get involved and be part of something that can only grow and improve.”
ANTONYFROST, DIRECTOR & DEALER PRINCIPALAT FURROWS
Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so manyyoung people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FAGrassrootsAwards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.”
MATTWINFIELD, MCDONALD’S – ERASMUS RESTAURANTS.
“Grassroots football plays such an important role in the lives of so manyyoung people and families in our community. I’m proud to continue supporting the Shropshire FAGrassrootsAwards, which celebrate the hard work and passion of the people who give their time week in, week out to keep football thriving in Shropshire.”
Safeguarding Section
DSOWords
This month at Shropshire County FA we are delighted to highlight the successful launch of our new Spectator Feedback keyrings.
Many clubs have now received their first batch, and we have already seen a significant number of reports submitted, both positive and constructive. It has been fantastic to hear about the wonderful acts of good practice taking place across our football community, while also being able to identify and respond to areas of concern. This initiative is already proving to be a valuable tool in helping us keep the game safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for all.
I am also continuing to grow our Welfare Officers’ WhatsApp Community Group, which is becoming a supportive space to network, share best practice and communicate more easily with each other and with me, if you would like to join, please do get in touch.
A huge congratulations must also go to our Youth Council for their first fundraising project, delivered in partnership with the British Heart Foundation. Their ‘Wear Red to Training Week’ was an idea created and delivered entirely by the Youth Council from start to finish an outstanding achievement and a fantastic first project. They are a wonderful addition to Shropshire FA this season, ensuring the youth voice helps to shape the youth game, and there are some exciting projects on the horizon.
As always, I am here to provide support and guidance on all safeguarding matters and am available via phone, Teams or in person for regular check-ins or any queries.
Our shared aim remains clear, to keep football safe, inclusive and childcentred, because the game is for them to enjoy, develop and feel safe above all else.
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
SafeguardingTeam
SamGriffiths-Designated SafeguardingOfficer
DesignatedSafeguardingOfficer(DSO)
SamGriffiths
sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07918764766
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
Iinfo@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/ @ShropshireFA hropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
TomWellings-Referees &Facilities
DeputyDesignatedSafeguardingOfficer (DDSO)
TomWellings
tom.wellings@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07719047701
ShropshireFA
AndyWeston-CEO& SeniorSafeguardingLead
SeniorSafeguardingLead(SSL)
AndyWeston andyweston@shropshirefacom 01743362769
ZoeVernall-Headof FootballServices
DeputySeniorSafeguardingLead(DSSL) ZoeVernall zoevernall@shropshirefacom 01743362769/07736956038
SafeguardingHub
SafeguardingHub
RSafeguarding equirements
RSafeguarding equirements
