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With just four days to go until our Cup Finals get underway, here is everything you need to know in one place, including fixtures, venues and kick-off times
Last month, Shropshire FA hosted a CPD event in partnership with Mike Phelan Coaching, delivering an insightful coaching masterclass at Whitchurch Alport The session aimed to support the ongoing development of grassroots coaches across the county
Take a look at just a few of our Shropshire FA referees’ outstanding achievements over the past few 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

WITH JUST FOUR DAYSTO GO UNTIL OUR CUP FINALS GET UNDERWAY, HERE IS EVERYTHINGYOU NEEDTO KNOW IN ONE PLACE, INCLUDING FIXTURES,VENUES AND KICK-OFFTIMES.
The Croud Meadow
8 May – Tony Bywater Premier Cup (7:30pm)
9 May – SFA Premier Youth Challenge Cup (10:00am)
9 May – Mark Harrod U15/U16 Premier Youth Cup (1:30pm)
9 May – TJ Vickers Premier Cup (5:00pm)
10 May –SFA Sunday Premier Cup (10:00am)
10 May – Women’s League Cup (1:30pm)
10 May – Tom Farmer Cup Sponsored by SEAH (5:00pm)
Across the weekend at the Croud Meadow Shropshire FA will also host a special football festival in partnership with McDonalds and Shrewsbury Town Foundation, featuring inflatables, face painting and giveaways for all the family.
The festival will run:
9 May: 11:00am–6:00pm
10 May: 9:30am–5:00pm
SEAH Stadium
5 May – Cara Wall U16s Saturday Challenge Sponsored by SEAH (7:00pm)
6 May – SFA U15s Sunday Challenge Cup Boys (7:00pm)
7 May – SFA U15s Saturday Challenge Cup Girls Sponsored by SEAH (7:00pm)
8 May – Mark Harrod U16s Sunday Challenge Cup (7:00pm)
13 May – SFA Sunday Challenge Cup (7:30pm)
14 May – Shropshire Youth Cup U17s/U18s (7:00pm)
15 May – Salop Leisure League Division 1 League Cup (7:30pm)
16 May – SFA Saturday Youth Cup Sponsored by SEAH (10:00am)
16 May – Shropshire Saturday Challenge Cup (1:30pm)
Charity Partner Support
This year’s finals will be proudly supported by the British Heart Foundation as our official charity partner. Keep an eye out for their presence around the grounds, including Hearty the mascot and donation buckets.
Supporters are encouraged, where possible, to donate and help support the life-saving research carried out by BHF.
Tickets
Tickets for all Cup Finals will be available to purchase on the gate.
Tickets for fixtures at New Bucks Head Stadium are also available to buy online:
https://afctelfordunited.ticketco.shop/
Prices:
Adults: £7
Concessions (65+ / over 14): £4
Under 14s: Free entry with a paying adult (up to 3 children per adult; 4th child £1)
Come and Support Grassroots Football
We look forward to welcoming players, coaches, officials and supporters to what promises to be a fantastic celebration of grassroots football across Shropshire.
Last month, Shropshire FA hosted a CPD event in partnership with Mike Phelan Coaching, delivering an insightful coaching masterclass at Whitchurch Alport. The session aimed to support the ongoing development of grassroots coaches across the county.
Former Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan, who brings decades of experience in the professional game, shared his knowledge and reflections from an extensive career at the highest level. Coaches in attendance had the valuable opportunity to gain insight directly from his experiences, with the intention of taking ideas back to implement within their own teams and environments.
Phelan reflected on the day and explained why he believes grassroots football is so important.
“Everything about coming to the grassroots level is all about enjoyment and having fun.” He began “Trying to leave the team and leave the coaches with something to think about.
“Not to create coaches, not to create players but certainly to give them something from my experience that they can take away and practice.”
The former Manchester United coach had a word of advice to grassroots coaches across Shropshire.
“Practice, get out on the grass, get out on the artificial surfaces., put as much time and effort as you possibly can into trying to make yourself better.
“Learn from your mistakes, but also try to progress, try and connect with your players and communicate well.
“Be prepared to fail and then do it again and get better at it, eventually you’ll make less mistakes than when you started.”
Throughout his illustrious career Phelan had the chance to coach at some of the biggest clubs in England with the best players in the world. Having won countless trophies in his coaching career he looked back on his favourite moments.
“There has been quite a few to be honest.
“Winning the major trophies, which I was thankful to achieve with some good players.


“Bepreparedtofailandthendoit againandgetbetteratit, eventuallyyou’llmakeless mistakesthanwhenyoustarted.”
“Working with quality [players] but also developing talent. You can see talent but it’s just can you get that talent out of them.
“I think my greatest moment was seeing players do better, strive to do better, strive to be winners and to be successful.”
Phelan concluded by reflecting on the most challenging part of coaching, something which grassroots managers and coaches across the county can relate to.
“The most challenging moment in anybody’s career as a coach or manager is to leave players out in a game.
“You coach so many players, good players, all capable of playing every week but you can only pick 11 to play in a game.
“I think that is the most challenging decision you have to make because they are all ready, they are all available and they all want to play but you can only play 11.”
TakealookatjustafewofourShropshireFA referees’outstandingachievementsoverthepast fewmonths.
Not stopping there, Jason also completed the London Marathon recently A brilliant example of dedication both on and off the pitch
Kyle Rowland was selected as one of just 18 officials from across the country on the National Core Programme to officiate at the U15 Premier League International Tournament held at Cobham Training Ground
Over three days, Kyle officiated matches involving some of the world’s top academies, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, Juventus, PSG, and Borussia Dortmund competing in the tournament
Gregorz Filiaik took charge of the Women’s National League Reserve Plate Final between Middlesbrough and QPR In a tightly contested match, Middlesbrough ran out 1–0 winners to lift the trophy
A fantastic appointment on a national stage, highlighting Gregorz’s continued development and progression within the refereeing pathway
At just 16 years old, Kian took charge of his first adult fixture between NC United and Whitchurch Alport in the Salop Prem
Supported by experienced officials Ross Smart and Mark Reilly, Kian grew into the game impressively. Despite initial nerves, he showed great composure, confidence and control throughout the match, an excellent first step into adult football
Kyle said: “It was a great experience The opportunity to learn and grow using the vast knowledge of the coaching team, mixed with the ability of the players, was really valuable”
To round off an outstanding weekend, Kyle was selected as an assistant referee for the final. He added: “It was a fantastic weekend all round, with a brilliant bunch of officials”
Jason Roberts made his debut in the EFL League One, running the line in Burton Albion vs AFC Wimbledon, a major milestone in his officiating career

If you’re a referee and would like to be featured in next month’s Referee Spotlight, please email your achievements to tom.wellings@shropshirefa.com

Last month, Shropshire FA delivered an engaging and high-energy CPD event at Market Drayton Tigers, centred around one of the most crucial aspects of the game, finishing.
The evening brought learning to life, giving coaches the opportunity to upskill through fresh ideas, creative session designs and realistic game-based practices. The session had a strong focus on developing both players and coaches, exploring how to create goal-scoring opportunities, support decision-making in the final third, and deliver sessions that are both challenging and enjoyable.
Coaches were taken through a variety of dynamic finishing practices, demonstrating how sessions can evolve from simple unopposed drills into more complex, game-realistic scenarios. Throughout the evening, the emphasis remained on keeping training engaging and enjoyable, while ensuring players continue to develop technically and grow in confidence in front of goal.
The energy didn’t stop on the pitch. The event created a fantastic collaborative learning environment, with coaches sharing ideas, asking questions and reflecting on their own practice. These open discussions sparked valuable coaching conversations, leaving attendees with practical tools they can implement within their own teams.
Events like this highlight the power of CPD in supporting grassroots football and helping coaches to continually develop.
If your club would like to be next to host a free CPD event and benefit from expert support, please get in touch with our Coach Developer at Lawrence.wilson@shropshirefa.com.


The Furrows Girls League Finals are now well underway, with two exciting weekends of football already delivering memorable moments and impressive performances.
Proceedings began on 18 April at Shawbury United, who hosted four finals across the U8 and U16 age groups. The day showcased a brilliant mix of energy, skill and sportsmanship, all played in perfect weather conditions. In the U16 Management Cup, Worthen Juniors U16 Girls produced a strong performance to secure a 5–2 victory. Meanwhile, Prees Club U16 Lightning claimed the U16 Charity Cup, overcoming Shifnal Girls FC U16 in a competitive contest.
The action continued on 25 April at AFC Bridgnorth, where the U13 and U15 finals took centre stage. The U13 Management Cup saw a closely fought encounter between SAHA FC U13 Cosmos Girls and Newport Girls U13 Tigers, with Newport emerging victorious after a tense penalty shootout, winning 3–1 on penalties.
In the U13 Charity Cup Final, Shawbury United U13 Girls delivered an impressive display to secure a 4–0 win over Albrighton U13 Wolves Girls.
In the afternoon’s U15 fixtures, Worthen Juniors celebrated further success, with Worthen Juniors U15 Wasps lifting the Management Cup
following a 3–0 victory against SAHA FC U15 Dragons Girls. Bridgnorth Spartans U15 White Girls then claimed the U15 Charity Cup, defeating Wrekin Juniors U15 Lionesses Girls 4–0.
Both weekends highlighted the strength and spirit of girls’ grassroots football in the county, with players, coaches and supporters contributing to two brilliant occasions. Every participant should be proud of their efforts and achievements.
Attention now turns to the upcoming finals. Shawbury United will once again play host, this time welcoming the U11 and U12 Management and Charity Cup finals. The following weekend, Ludlow Town FC will stage a bumper schedule of six matches, featuring the U9, U10, and U14 finals, bringing the 2026 Furrows Girls League Finals to an exciting conclusion.
Good luck to all players preparing for their finals and congratulations once again to everyone who has taken part so far.










Shropshire FA will host its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday 2nd June (7:00pm) at its offices in Telford
The AGM is a key date in the football calendar, bringing together clubs and leagues from across the county to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the future of grassroots football in Shropshire.
All club and league secretaries will receive their official invitation via email
For any further information regarding the AGM, please contact info@shropshirefa.com.
We look forward to welcoming representatives from across the game for an important and engaging evening
May,2026


Shropshire FA is delighted to announce that the Grassroots Football Awards 2026 will once again take place in the Sovereign Suite at The Croud Meadow, home of Shrewsbury Town FC.
This special event, which celebrates the end of the season and recognises the incredible efforts of volunteers across the county, will be held on the evening of Friday 10th July
The night promises to be an enjoyable and memorable occasion for all in attendance, featuring a special guest speaker alongside food and refreshments. It’s always a standout date in the calendar, and an important opportunity to recognise and thank the volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to keep grassroots football thriving across Shropshire
Further details will be shared in due course
May,2026

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 page https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/index.html



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://wwwjustgivingcom/campaign/sleepoutcroudmeadow? utm medium=CA&utm source=CL
Email Ruth.Pemberton@foundationstfc.co.uk to sign up.

This May, Tesco and easyfundraising have come together to give a little help to community causes across the UK. Five good causes, including football teams, will receive an unrestricted £1,000
If your players, parents, coaches and wider community shop with Tesco OR F&F clothing via easyfundraising by 31st May, your football team will benefit from free cashback donations* – and has an improved chance of receiving £1,000 – all courtesy of Tesco!
Don’t miss out. If you haven’t already then register your football team with easyfundraising using the link below Then ask everyone connected to your football team to join as your supporters and try it out with a Tesco or F&F shop Register now: https://wwweasyfundraisingorguk/shropshire-fa/
Already using easyfundraising? Tell your network about the Tesco Community Pledge with these ready-made resources.
*Up to £3 per new customer and 50p per subsequent shop on Groceries 10p donation on all in-store purchases via a linked card Min spend restrictions apply Up to 4% cashback on purchases from F&F T&Cs apply


The Shrewsbury Food Festival is back, bringing together the best independent food producers, quality street food vendors, top chefs and local brewers and distillers to serve up the finest food and drink which will have your taste buds jumping for joy!
It’s more than just food, it’s a day out for the whole family! There is an entire area of the park dedicated to kids, with every activity completely free! Learn about the journey of food in the field to fork area, let off some steam with sports activities or head to the cookery school Plus, live music for everyone to enjoy!
Exclusive Reader Offer:
Enjoy 10% off Sunday 28 June 2026 tickets using code: FAFOODFEST th
Valid until April 30th
Limited to the first 100 uses
Be quick, once it’s gone, it’s gone!
https://wwwticketsshropshirefestivalscouk/



AndyWeston CEO&Senior SafeguardingLead

SamGriffiths DesignatedSafeguarding Officer
James Salliss Grassroots Services Administrator
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
info@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/
Kemi Smallman Football Services Administrator @ShropshireFA shropsfa

ShropshireFootballAssociation

ShropshireFA
LawrenceWilson FootballParticipationOfficer (Coaching&Development)

TomWellings
FootballParticipation Officer(Referees& Facilities)

LukeFlindall
DigitalMedia&Participation Administrator
DylanShinton
FootballParticipationOfficer (ClubDevelopmentand Pathways)
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
info@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/
@ShropshireFA

hropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation

ShropshireFA



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.
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.
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
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.
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.

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
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

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
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”
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.
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
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



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.”



















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

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


















