SHROPSHIRE FA November Edition
THE NEWSLETTER OF THE SHROPSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
365 Days of football
Remembering Jack
MORE THAN FOOTBALL
OUR FOOTBALL COMMUNITY LOOKS OUT FOR EACHOTHER In an emergency call
999 if someone is it at immediate risk of suicide
NHS Crisis Helpline
Urgent Mental Health support call
111 Free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Shout - Crisis text support
0808 196 4501
TEXT STW TO 85258
Free 24/7 mental health support
Free, 24/7 text support across Shropshire
Samaritans
Childline
Shropshire Mental Health Support
01743 368647
Branches Mental Health Support (Telford)
01952 899205
Shropshire Mental Health Social Work Team
116 123
0800 1111
Free confidential emotional support 24/7
Free confidential support for children
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK
CALM - Campaign Against Living Miserably
Listen Not Label
0800 587 0800
0800 58 58 58
07434 869248
Children and Youth People’s Mental Health (CAHMS)
YOU ARE NOT ALONE. SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE. IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP.
SANEline
0300 124 0093 Local NHS mental health specialist for age up to 25
01743 255895
0300 304 7000
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
MEET OUR NEWEST TEAM MEMBER RALPH LAWRENCE Shropshire FA is delighted to welcome Ralph Lawrence as the latest addition to the team, joining us as our new Grassroots Services Apprentice.
WYNN FOUNDATION DONATES £1,500 TO SUPPORT DEAF FOOTBALL ACROSS SHROPSHIRE Shropshire FA is delighted to announce that we have recently received a generous donation of £1,500 from the Wynn Foundation to help grow deaf football across Shropshire and create more opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing children to enjoy the game. .
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
FROM SHROPSHIRE TO CHINA: CALLUM ORAM TAKES TO THE WORLD STAGE! A huge congratulations to Shropshire referee Callum Oram, who recently returned from the International School Sport Federation (ISF) Football World Cup in China.
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
Club Portal Your Guide to Managing Disciplinary Procedures
We know that being a club official is no easy task. With so many responsibilities to juggle throughout the season, finding the time to navigate different systems and processes can sometimes feel overwhelming but having the right guidance available can make all the difference.
actions, so knowing where to start and how to complete each step correctly is important. The guides cover a range of common tasks, including how to view, pay and submit claims for yellow and red cards, as well as how to pay disciplinary fines and add match suspensions. They also explain how to add a Discipline Officer to Club Portal, ensuring the relevant person can support the club with its disciplinary responsibilities. For clubs looking to challenge a decision, there is guidance on submitting claims for mistaken identity and wrongful dismissal. These resources help explain how to navigate the relevant processes through Club Portal and identify the steps required when submitting a claim. There is also support available for responding to misconduct charges and Fast Track Offers, helping club officials understand how to access and respond to these matters through the portal. Additional guidance covers notifications, so officials can better understand when notifications will be recieved. Alongside disciplinary procedures, the collection includes instructions for completing the Online Equality and Diversity module if you have been found proven of an E3.2. misconduct charge. Clear guidance when you need it The aim of these resources is to make Club Portal easier to navigate and help reduce some of the uncertainty that can come with managing administrative and disciplinary tasks. Rather than having to work through a process on your own, you can refer to the relevant guide for straightforward instructions to help you complete each task.
To help make things easier, England Football has put together a series of easy-to-follow guides to support club officials in navigating Club Portal and completing key tasks with confidence. These guides provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you understand each process, know what action to take and find the information you need whenever you need it. Supporting you through the disciplinary process This collection of guidance focuses on the disciplinary procedures that clubs may need to manage throughout the season. Disciplinary matters can involve several different processes, deadlines and SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
We hope these guides give you the support and confidence you need to navigate Club Portal, manage disciplinary procedures and complete the necessary tasks throughout the season.
Click here to access the guide
Shropshire FA is delighted to announce that we have recently received a generous donation of £1,500 from the Wynn Foundation to help grow deaf football across Shropshire and create more opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing children to enjoy the game. The funding will help provide more inclusive opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing people to get involved in football, develop their skills and become part of a local sporting community where everyone feels welcome. James Harrison, who leads the deaf football initiative across Shropshire, explained the personal importance of the programme: "Deaf football is in my heart because my son was born hard of hearing and when we tried to look for hard of hearing and deaf football there was very little around. "To give him equal access to football we wanted to set something up and running that wouldn't only benefit my own son but also other children in the deaf community.
Wynn Foundation Donates £1,500 to Support Deaf Football Across Shropshire SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER 26 SPORT MAGAZINE
"This funding is absolutely essential because it not only contributes towards the venue costs but also to a British sign language interpreter. "The hard of hearing and deaf community communicate via sign language and for every session we have an interpreter involved to communicate my football terminology over to the children, which is essential to make sure that everyone feels fully included and knows exactly what is going on." Josh Feehan from Wynn Foundation said; "The Wynn Foundation was established around ten years ago by Jenny and Graham Wynn. They set it up after selling their business and wanted to give money out to good causes across Shropshire. “Our Charitable objectives are centred around supporting young people in sport and unemployment, projects that will really make a difference in the local area. “I'm really pleased to be able to support this programme to get more children involved who are hard of hearing and deaf into football.”
From Shropshire to China: Callum Oram Takes to the World Stage! A huge congratulations to Shropshire referee Callum Oram, who recently returned from the International School Sport Federation (ISF) Football World Cup in China, where he officiated an impressive 12 matches as one of 60 referees selected for the tournament. From refereeing grassroots football on a Sunday here in Shropshire to officiating on the international stage, Callum’s journey is a fantastic achievement and a testament to his hard work, dedication and passion for the game. The opportunity to represent TRA and Shropshire FA at an international tournament is a huge milestone in any referee’s career, giving Callum the chance to experience football at the highest level, work alongside officials from across the world and further develop his refereeing skills. Reflecting on his experience, Callum said: “Representing TRA and The FA on the international stage, while experiencing such a high standard of football, is something to be immensely proud of.” Callum’s contribution to football doesn't stop at refereeing. He is also an active member of the Shropshire FA Youth Council, where he plays an important role in supporting and developing the grassroots game across the county. Through his involvement, Callum has helped plan events, volunteered at our County Cup competitions and even taken part in County Cup draws. His enthusiasm and willingness to give up his time demonstrate his commitment to making a positive difference within football, both on and off the pitch. It is fantastic to see a young person from Shropshire taking up opportunities, gaining experiences on an international stage and giving back to the local football community. Callum’s journey is a brilliant example of where dedication, passion and getting involved can take you. We are incredibly proud to see him representing Shropshire and inspiring the next generation of referees and volunteers. Well done, Callum! We look forward to seeing what comes next!
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
Shropshire FA is delighted to welcome Ralph Lawrence as the latest addition to the team, joining us as our new Grassroots Services Apprentice. Ralph’s appointment highlights Shropshire FA’s continued commitment to supporting and developing grassroots football across the county, helping to ensure the game runs smoothly for everyone involved. In his new role, Ralph will combine his studies with gaining valuable experience in a professional working environment. He will be part of the Football Services team, supporting the delivery of grassroots football across Shropshire and helping clubs, leagues and participants with their football-related enquiries. You may have already spotted Ralph on our social
settles into his new role! For any assistance or enquiries relating to Football Services, Ralph can be contacted directly at Ralph.Lawrence@shropshirefa.com. Speaking about his appointment, Ralph said: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Shropshire FA. I’m looking forward to developing my skills across administration and helping to keep football running across Shropshire.” Ralph’s appointment comes as Shropshire FA continues to strengthen its services and support for local football. His role will play an important part in our ongoing mission to develop, promote and govern football throughout the county. Welcome to the team, Ralph!
County Cup Update EVERY TEAM STILL IN EACH COMPETITION Mark Harrod U15s & U16s Premier Youth Cup AFC Telford United U15 Boys AFC Telford United U16 Boys Ercall Colts Juniors U15 MJPL Shawbury United U16 MJPL Shrewsbury Town Foundation U15 Shrewsbury Town Foundation U16 Shrewsbury Town Foundation U16 South Telford Town U16 MJPL Mark Harrod U16s Sunday Challenge Cup Admaston Juniors U16 United Allscott Heath U16 Bishops Castle Town U16 Bridgnorth Spartans U16 Black Church Stretton Magpies U16 Lawley Lightmoor U16 Galaxy Lawley Lightmoor U16 Rockets Oswestry Bg Club U16 Vikings Randlay Colts Juniors U16 Blues Shawbury United U16 Colts Shrewsbury Up & Comers U16 Falcons Shrewsbury Up & Comers U16 Hawks Sparta U16 Yellow Telford Town U16 Phoenix Whitchurch Alport U16 Boys
Whitchurch Alport Wrekin Juniors Tigers Wrockwardine Wood Juniors Shropshire FA U15s Saturday Challenge Cup sponsored by SEAH AFC Telford United Girls Allscott Heath Girls Baschurch FC Ercall Colts Juniors Newport Girls Dragons Shawbury United Storm Shrewsbury Up & Comers Hawks Whitchurch Alport Girls Shropshire FA u16s Saturday Challenge Cup sponsored by SEAH AFC Telford United U16 Girls Albrighton U16 FC Girls Bridgnorth Spartans U16 White Ercall Colts Juniors U16 Rangers Lawley Lightmoor U16 Galaxy Girls Oswestry Bg Club U16 Dynamos SAHA FC U16 Dragons Shifnal Girls FC U16 Worthen Juniors U16 Girls Worthen Juniors U16 Wasps
Shropshire FA U15s Sunday Challenge Cup Shropshire FA Sunday Youth Challenge Cup AFC Bridgnorth Town Whites Allscott Heath Baschurch FC Tigers Bridgnorth Spartans Blacks Bridgnorth Spartans Whites Broseley Youth Sports Hawks Ellesmere Rangers Ercall Colts Juniors Rangers Market Drayton Tigers Market Drayton Tigers White Meole Brace Juniors Eagles Meole Brace Juniors Tigers Meresiders Mighty Villians Monkmoor Spitfires FC NC United Blues Nova United Nova United Juniors Oswestry Bg Club Tigers Randlay Colts Juniors Blues Randlay Colts Juniors Whites SAHA FC Galaxy SAHA FC Rapids Shifnal Town Black Shifnal Town Yellow Shrewsbury Up & Comers Harriers Shrewsbury Up & Comers Hawks Shropshire Lions Telford Town Wem Town
Bridgnorth Spartans U17 Red NC United U18 United Shropshire Lions U17 Shropshire Lions U18 Shrewsbury Up & Comers U17 Telford Town U18 Worthen Juniors U17 Seahawks Shropshire FA Saturday Youth Challenge sponsored by SEAH Prees Club U18 Prees Lightning Shifnal Girls FC U18 Shrewsbury Up & Comers U18 Hawks Girls Telford Town U18 Girls Shropshire FA Premier Youth Challenge Cup AFC Bridgnorth U18 AFC Telford United Allscott Heath Ellesmere Rangers Shifnal Town Shawbury United MPJL Wem Town Whitchurch Alport Whitchurch Alport Shawbury United MPJL
County Cup Update EVERY TEAM THAT IS STILL IN EACH COMPETITION Tom Farmer Womens Challenge Cup sponsored by Seah AFC Telford United Ladies Albrighton Women Allscott Heath Ladies Bridgnorth Spartans Womens First Broseley Ladies FC Dawley Town FC Ladies Ellesmere Rangers Ladies Ercall Colts Junior Ladies Ludlow Town FC Women Market Drayton Town Ladies Newport Girls Ladies Shifnal Town Ladies Shawbury United Ladies Shrewsbury Town Women FC First Team Shrewsbury Up & Comers Ladies Shropshire Lionesses Women Telford Town Ladies Wem Town Ladies Whitchurch Alport Women Worthen Junior Ladies Shropshire FA Sunday Challenge Cup AFC Alveley AFC Bridgnorth Sunday Bayston Hill FC Craven Arms FC The Joiners Arms White Bear Rangers Shropshire FA Sunday Premier Cup FC Nations AFC Red Barn Rovers Shawbury United Sunday The Red Lion GCFC Three Crowns FC Worthen Juniors First Wrekin View FC Shropshire FA Saturday Challenge Cup sponsored by Pitchcare Albrighton FC Church Stretton Town First Ellesmere Rangers First Ercall Colts Juniors Pegasus Ercall Colts Juniors Rangers FC Nations Reserves Haughmond First Ludlow Town FC Reserves Prees United First Shawbury United Development Shrewsbury Juniors FC Shrewsbury Up & Comers FC St Martins
Wem Town FC Whitchurch Alport 1946 Wrockwardine Wood Juniors First Shropshire FA Saturday Premier Cup AFC Bridgnorth First Shawbury United First Telford Town First Whitchurch Alport First
Shropshire FA will make Feedz – the AI-powered platform co-founded by Manchester United and England defender Harry Maguire – available to more than 2,000 coaches, helping them deliver faster, clearer and more consistent feedback to nearly 12,000 players Feedz converts short voice notes into structured performance reports in seconds, helping coaches provide consistent, high-quality feedback The AI-powered platform reduces admin, giving coaches more time on the field with players while allowing professional reports to be shared instantly with players, parents and staff Feedz supports coaches across multiple sports and environments, from grassroots teams to English Premier League academies 12,000 players, from Under-7s through to adult football, are set to benefit across Shropshire’s clubs and leagues Feedz – the AI-powered platform designed to help sports coaches deliver faster, clearer and more consistent feedback to players – has partnered with Shropshire FA. The partnership will see Shropshire FA make Feedz available to its network of more than 2,000 coaches, helping them provide consistent, personalised feedback to up to 12,000 players and their families soon after training sessions and matches.
Shropshire FA Partner with AI Coaching Platform Feedz
FEEDZ SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER 26 SPORT MAGAZINE
Co-founded by Manchester United and England defender Harry Maguire, Feedz enables coaches to record a short voice note that is converted into a structured professional report for players, parents and staff – saving hours of administration while improving communication and supporting player development. The platform is already used by Premier League and English Football League clubs, across a range of other sports including county cricket, table tennis, and by clubs, academies, state programmes and colleges across the United States. Founded in 1877, Shropshire FA is the governing body for football across England’s largest inland county, overseeing the development, governance and promotion of grassroots football. Its football community spans clubs and leagues in towns including Shrewsbury, Telford, Oswestry, Bridgnorth, Market Drayton, Newport and Ludlow. The partnership brings together two organisations committed to helping coaches communicate more effectively, supporting player development and strengthening the relationship between coaches, players and parents. Lawrence Wilson, Football Participation Officer (Coaching & Pathways), Shropshire FA, said: “Effective, consistent feedback is fundamental to developing better coaches, players and experiences across the game. At Shropshire FA, we are always looking at how we can support our clubs, coaches and players to learn and improve, and partnering with Feedz is an exciting step forward in that approach.
“For players, this means receiving clearer, more regular feedback to help them understand their strengths and areas for development in their individual journey. For coaches, Feedz will provide a more efficient way to record and share that feedback consistently, without adding to their workload. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership can have across our programmes and the wider football community in Shropshire.” As a parent of children taking part in grassroots sport, Feedz Co-Founder Matt White identified the need to make feedback easier for coaches
while maintaining motivation in young people to practise and improve. Matt White, Co-Founder, Feedz, said: “We’re delighted to partner with the Shropshire Football Association and support the coaches and clubs who play such an important role in developing players across the county. Feedz makes delivering player feedback much easier than ever before. A coach can record a quick voice note immediately after a session or game and our AI converts it into a clear, structured and professional report in seconds, ready to share with players and parents. “For coaches working with multiple
teams and players, that can significantly reduce the time spent on administration, allowing them to spend more time where it matters most – on the field developing players.” Feedz is available on iOS, Android and the web, giving coaches a simple way to provide personalised feedback, save time and support player development through clearer communication. To find out more, visit www.feedz.club
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
CELEBRATING OUR SPIRIT OF THE GAME AWARD WINNERS Congratulations to our six Spirit of the Game Award winners, recognised for their outstanding positive contributions to grassroots football across the county. The Spirit of the Game Award celebrates the individuals who go above and beyond to make football a positive, inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. From players demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship and coaches promoting respect and inclusion, to referees going the extra mile and volunteers making a difference behind the scenes, the awards recognise those who truly embody the values of fair play, integrity and community spirit. Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised? Nominations are now welcome for next year’s Spirit of the Game Awards. To nominate an individual who makes a positive difference to grassroots football, please email sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com.
Michael Matthews
Amy Clews
Paul O’Rourke
Tom Langford
Bayston Hill U14 Girls
Tom Taylor
Drive. Discover. Save. with TJ Vickers Changan Our partners at TJ Vickers Changan are inviting drivers across Shropshire to their Drive. Discover. Save. Event, taking place from 2-22 November. It's a great opportunity to explore the innovative Changan S05 range, available with fully electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, enjoy a test drive, and take advantage of exclusive event offers. If you're thinking about making the switch to a new vehicle, why not see what Changan has to offer? 2-22 November Book your visit today: TJ Vickers | Welcome to the Changan S05 Drive Discover Save Event
SFA Announcements Club Welfare Officer Spotlight! We want to celebrate the fantastic work of our Club Welfare Officers by showcasing you across our social media channels! If you’d like to be featured, simply email sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com with your name, email address, club and a short bio about your role. Let’s shine a spotlight on the dedication and hard work you put into grassroots football!
Goal of the Month (GOTM) It’s that time again! Send your entries to luke.flindall@shropshirefa.com for your chance to be crowned October’s Goal of the Month and win a special prize! Don’t miss out, get your goals sent in!
Join the Shropshire FA Coaches Association! Join our brand-new Coaches Association, led by Coach Developer and UEFA A Licence Coach, Lawrence Wilson! Gain access to exclusive discounts, session plans and valuable resources to support your coaching and help you get the most out of your training sessions. To join email lawrence.wilson@shropshirefa.com.
November, 2026
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
SFA Announcements Club Visits Are Coming Your Way! We’ll be visiting clubs across the county, so make sure you’re confident answering two important safeguarding questions: 1.Do you know who your Club Welfare Officer is? 2.Do you know how to report a safeguarding concern? Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Make sure you know who to speak to and what to do if a concern arises!
Behaviour Improvement Programme This season, Shropshire FA has introduced Behaviour Improvement Programmes as part of the FA initiative, supporting clubs experiencing poor behaviour through targeted guidance to build more positive club cultures. Last season, teams involved saw real progress, with an average 7% increase in Good Respect scores.
Respect our Referees If a referee is wearing a yellow armband, this indicates they are under 18. They are a young person officiating the game, so please show respect at all times. Keep the touchline positive, encourage everyone and remember abuse of any kind is never acceptable.
November, 2026
Claim your share of Black Friday and Christmas shopping donations! Over 8,000 online retailers are giving away free donations this festive season when people shop with them through easyfundraising. While your players, parents, coaches and the wider community pick up Christmas gifts and Black Friday bargains, your football team could receive free funding for new kit, equipment, facilities, or whatever your cause needs most! To make the most of the festive shopping season, simply register your football team with easyfundraising for free and invite your community to join as supporters. It's as easy as sharing a link, and there are ready-made messages to help spread the word. Black Friday is coming on 27 November! Get your supporters on board now so your football team is ready to benefit from all that festive shopping. CTA: Register your football https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/shropshire-fa/
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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
Luke Flindall Digital Media & Participation Administrator
Lawrence Wilson Football Participation Officer (Coaching & Development)
Shropshire FA
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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)
Ralph Lawrence Grassroot Services Apprentice
James Salliss Grassroots Services Administrator
Shropshire FA
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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: luke.flindall@shropshirefa.com. Promote your business while supporting grassroots football across Shropshire - a winning partnership on and off the pitch.
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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.
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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.”
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
Safeguarding Hub
Under-18
Non-Competitive Football: Social Media Guidelines When posting about under-18 non-competitive football, the focus should always be on enjoyment, development and creating positive experiences for everyone. The Right Approach Celebrate participation, enjoyment, development, teamwork and inclusion. Focus on the team or group rather than individual children. Always put the welfare and safety of children first.
What Not to Post Scores, league tables or rankings. Player of the Match competitions. Comparisons between children or individual performances. Criticism of mistakes or negative comments. Language that creates pressure to win. Posts that could embarrass, single out or humiliate a child. Comments about a child's appearance, body or physical development. Photos, Videos and Live Streaming Consent: Obtain appropriate consent from both teams and ensure clubs know which players can and cannot appear in content. Avoid images that make children easily identifiable. Never take or share images in private areas, such as changing rooms. Only live stream when safeguarding, privacy and consent have been fully considered. Protecting Children's Information Never publish: Home addresses, personal telephone numbers or email addresses. School names or class information. Regular travel arrangements. Any information that could allow someone to approach a child away from football. Online Communication and Boundaries Use approved club or team communication channels. Communicate with parents/carers rather than privately messaging children. Keep all communication footballrelated. Never use personal social media accounts to communicate directly with under-18 players.
Focus on a specific athlete’s training week What to Post Taking part and enjoying football. Learning and developing new skills. Teamwork and positive experiences. Inclusion, friendship and respect. Celebrating effort and participation. Group photos (with appropriate consent). Positive, respectful and encouraging language.
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
Club Responsibilities Do not tolerate bullying, discrimination or personal attacks. Avoid engaging in arguments with parents, players or other clubs. Never publish or encourage negative comments about children. Report any safeguarding concerns through the appropriate club procedures. Remember: Under-18 non-competitive football is about enjoyment, development and participation. Social media should reflect this, keeping children's welfare at the heart of every post.
Reporting Welfare Concerns at Shropshire FA Have a concern? If you see, hear about, or are told something that causes you concern about the welfare or safety of a child or adult at risk, it is important that you report it. If you are attached to a club (For example, a player, coach, volunteer or club official) Contact your Club Welfare Officer. Please raise any welfare concerns with your club's Welfare Officer in the first instance. The concern will be reviewed. Your Club Welfare Officer will assess the information and determine whether it can be managed within the club or needs to be escalated. Appropriate action will be taken. The club will either manage the concern through its internal safeguarding procedures or refer it to the relevant League Welfare Officer and Shropshire FA's Designated Safeguarding Officer. If you are not attached to a club (For example, a spectator or member of the public) Please complete the Shropshire FA Spectator Feedback Form to report your concern. Complete the Shropshire FA Spectator Feedback Form here Your submission will go directly to the Shropshire FA Safeguarding Team for review. Your concerns matter We take all welfare and safeguarding concerns seriously. Reporting a concern helps us ensure that football remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment for everyone.
SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
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SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER