INSIDETHISISSUE
NEW EDI PARTNER ANNOUNCED
Shropshire FA and Shrewsbury Town Foundation Join Forces to Champion Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Grassroots Football
Announcing an exciting new partnership with Shrewsbury Town Foundation, the charitable arm of Shrewsbury Town FC, to drive forward Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across grassroots football in the county
MEETTHENEWTEAM
MEMBERS
In this edition we introduce you to the newest members of the Shropshire FA team, Luke Flindall and James Salliss
SUSTAIN THE GAME
Shropshire FA announces an exciting new partnership with Sustainable Leaders in Sport (SLiS) - a flexible, practical programme designed to help grassroots sports organisations take meaningful steps towards environmental responsibility
PARTNER APP-EAL FOR SEPTEMBER
Fundraise for your club, with the latest campaign from Easyfundraising
PLUS LOTS MORE!
ShropshireFAStrengthensTeam withTwoNewAppointments
Shropshire FA is delighted to announce the appointment of two talented professionals to its growing team, further strengthening the organisation's commitment to grassroots football development and digital engagement across the county.
James Salliss has joined as Grassroots Services Administrator, bringing experience in football administration and community sport. A recent Sports Management graduate from University College Birmingham, James combines academic excellence with practical experience gained through his roles as Club Secretary at Earlswood Town FC and his work in Birmingham City FC's ticket office.
James said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Shropshire FA and look forward to developing my administrative skills further in a football environment.”
James’ background includes managing player registrations, coordinating with governing bodies and coaching youth teams, making him perfectly positioned to support grassroots football development across Shropshire.
Luke Flindall has been appointed as Digital Media and Participation Administrator, adding valuable expertise in sports journalism and digital communications.
TwoNewAppointments
A Cardiff Metropolitan University graduate in Sports Media, Luke brings experience from high-profile roles including a Communications Internship at Cardiff City Football Club, freelance work with Six Nations Rugby and editorial experience with WalesOnline.
Luke said, “I’m really excited to join the Shropshire FA and I’m looking forward to helping grow Shropshire FA’s online presence.”
Luke’s combination of skills and sports industry knowledge will be instrumental in enhancing Shropshire FA's digital presence and community engagement.
Andy Weston, CEO of Shropshire FA, said, "We're thrilled to welcome James and Luke to our team at this exciting time for Shropshire football. James brings the grassroots experience and administrative expertise that will directly benefit our affiliated clubs and leagues, while Luke's digital media skills will help us better connect with and serve our football community. Both appointments reflect our commitment to supporting football at every level across the county, from grassroots participation to professional communication standards."
The appointments come as Shropshire FA continues to expand its services and support for local football, with both roles playing crucial parts in the organisation's mission to develop, promote and govern football throughout the county.
James and Luke began their roles in August and are based at Shropshire FA's new Dawley offices in Telford.
Workingin Collaboration
SHROPSHIRE FA AND SHREWSBURYTOWN FOUNDATION JOIN FORCESTO CHAMPION EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL
Shropshire Football Association is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Shrewsbury Town Foundation, the charitable arm of Shrewsbury Town FC, to drive forward Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across grassroots football in the county. This collaboration marks a significant step in both organisations' ongoing commitment to making football in Shropshire truly a game for everyone. Together, they will work to break down barriers, widen participation and ensure that football across the region is inclusive, welcoming and accessible to all - regardless of background, ability, gender, ethnicity or any other characteristic.
Shin Aujla, Foundation Director at Shrewsbury Town Foundation, added, "Football is a powerful tool for bringing people together. By joining forces with Shropshire FA, we aim to build a culture where everyone feels they belong, on and off the pitch. This is about more than just football - it's about building stronger, more inclusive communities."
Expanding Participation Across All Communities
The partnership will prioritise widening participation through targeted programmes designed to welcome everyone into the beautiful game:
Walking Football and Age Inclusion
The initiative will champion walking football as a cornerstone programme, establishing dedicated leagues and coaching pathways that allow older adults (50+) and people with mobility challenges to continue their football journey. These sessions will reduce physical barriers while maintaining competitive spirit, creating opportunities for intergenerational play.
Building on Shropshire's commitment to inclusive sport, the partnership will develop:
Pan-disability sessions welcoming players with physical, learning and sensory impairments
Powerchair football league strategy to research the requirement and desire for wheelchair users seeking competitive play
The joint initiative will see Shropshire FA and Shrewsbury Town Foundation develop and deliver a wide-ranging programme of EDIfocused activities, education and support for clubs, coaches, players and volunteers across the grassroots game.
Andy Weston, CEO of Shropshire FA, said, "This partnership is a key milestone in our mission to create a more inclusive and diverse football community in Shropshire. Working with the Shrewsbury Town Foundation, we're committed to making real change that provides opportunities for everyone to enjoy and thrive in the game."
Impairment specific sessions –tailored sessions for individuals with specific requirements
Inclusive coaching qualifications training volunteers to support diverse participation needs
Ability Counts Competitions and Festivals for Adults and Children –increased playing opportunities for both competitive and noncompetitive players
Equality,DiversityandInclusioninGrassroots Football
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Integration
The collaboration will create specialised pathways for young people with SEN through:
Adaptive sessions meeting the needs of the participant
Social communication groups using football to develop interpersonal skills
Transition programmes helping SEN students move from school football into community clubs
Broader Community Engagement
The partnership will extend its reach to ensure football truly becomes a game for all:
Women’s Walking Football and Mums football addressing participation gaps through targeted outreach
LGBTQ+ Football Groups ensuring safe, welcoming environments across all programmes
Wider community engagement working with historically underrepresented ethnic communities
Health Initiatives - Men’s walking Football, GP referral programmes
Refugee and asylum seeker initiatives using football as a powerful community integration tool for children and adults relocating into the county
Mental health support groups leveraging football's therapeutic benefits, breaking down barriers and improving both physical and mental wellbeing
Socioeconomically disadvantaged communities – fully-funded and subsidised programmes removing barriers to participation
The partnership will include community outreach programmes, awareness campaigns, training workshops and the creation of clear pathways to support underrepresented groups in football.
Both organisations are calling on clubs, players and stakeholders across the region to get involved and be part of creating a better, fairer game for all.
For more information on this partnership or to find out how your club can get involved, please contact: andrew.price@foundationstfc.co.uk
AndyWeston-CEO& SeniorSafeguardingLead
ZoeGriffiths-Headof FootballServices
SamGriffiths-Designated SafeguardingOfficer
James Salliss - Grassroots Services Administrator
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
Iinfo@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/
Kemi Smallman - Football Services Administrator @ShropshireFA shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation ShropshireFA
TomWellings-Referees &Facilities
DylanShinton- Club DevelopmentandPathways
SarahThompson-PR& CommunicationsOfficer
LukeFlindall-DigitalMedia& ParticipationAdministrator
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET 01743362769
Iinfo@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/
@ShropshireFA
shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
ShropshireFA
NewsIn Brief
NewVets League Launches
The Shropshire FA have launched a new Veterans League which kicked off in August.
Games take place just once a month with a winter break to allow league cup games to commence.
To find out more about how you can get involved email: Info@shropshirefa.com
Huge Surge in Enquiries for Girls’ Football Session
July Sees 62.5% Increase as Women’s EUROs Inspire Next Generation of Players
The FA's 'Find Football' portal has seen a 62.5% rise in enquiries for girls’ football sessions in July, compared to June as the excitement around the Women’s EUROs and the Lionesses’ latest triumph sparks a wave of interest among girls and their families.
Hot on the heels of the Lionesses' incredible UEFA Women’s EURO victory, this surge highlights a growing appetite for girls to get involved in football - fuelled by national success and a fresh sense of visibility and possibility in the women’s game.
September,2025
Jan Butler:A Life Devoted tothe Beautiful Game
When Jan Butler first helped her husband Bernie coach a junior side at Baschurch Juniors back in 1992, she had no idea that football would become a lifelong calling. What started as supporting a local team soon grew into more than three decades of service to young people and grassroots football across Shropshire.
Jan’s passion has always been simple: giving children the chance to play, grow and enjoy the game - whatever their ability. From her early days as a club secretary to becoming General Secretary of the Shropshire Junior Football League in 2002 (a role she still proudly holds), Jan has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep youth football thriving.
But she’s never stopped there. She’s taken on roles as Vice Chair, League Welfare Officer and, since 2009, the driving force behind the league’s Futsal Festival, introducing thousands of young players to the fast-paced indoor game.
In 2018, she brought her experience to the Shropshire FA’s Participation Committee, continuing to push for more opportunities for children to get involved.
For Jan, it has never been about title - it’s about people. Generations of young players, parents, coaches and volunteers have benefited from her dedication, warmth and quiet determination. She has become a constant presence in Shropshire football: reliable, approachable and always putting the kids first.
Jan’s story is more than one of long service - it’s one of love for the game and belief in what it can do for young people. Her impact cannot be measured in trophies or titles, but in the smiles, friendships and lifelong memories created on pitches across the county.
ShropshireFAAnnounces
PartnershipwithSustainable LeadersinSport(SLiS) toChampionaGreener FutureforGrassroots Football
SUSTAINTHE GAME…..
Shropshire FA has announced an exciting new partnership with Sustainable Leaders in Sport (SLiS) - a flexible, practical programme designed to help grassroots sports organisations take meaningful steps towards environmental responsibility.
‘Sustain The Game,’ a collaboration that will give local clubs access to tailored resources and tools to become more sustainable, resilient and future-ready, reinforces Shropshire FA’s commitment to supporting the grassroots game both on and off the pitch.
A Partnership Built for Impact
Many grassroots clubs want to be more sustainable – but face challenges with time, budget and expertise.
SLiS addresses these barriers by being:
Practical & affordable - designed for real grassroots needs
Cost-saving - reduce energy and water bills over time
Future-proofing - build long-term climate resilience
Connected - join a growing movement alongside professional clubs and organisations
Dr Mandy Stoker, Co-Founder of Sustainable Leaders in Sport, said, "We are delighted to work with Shropshire FA to bring sustainability within reach for every club, no matter their size or starting point. Together, we can make practical changes that add up to a lasting legacy for sport and the environment."
Andy Weston, CEO of Shropshire FA, added, "Grassroots football is at the heart of our communities, and we have a responsibility to make sure it thrives for generations to come. Partnering with SLiS gives our clubs the tools, knowledge and confidence to make a real difference, both on the pitch and for the planet."
SLiS is simple to start, easy to follow, and designed for real-world impact – helping clubs, communities and the planet move towards a greener game.
To find out more: Shropshire FA - Sustainable Leaders In Sport
No Club Too Small – Start Your Green Journey
Through SLiS, clubs can choose from two easy starting points:
DIY Resource Pack – a hands-on starter kit packed with guidance, checklists and ideas for clubs taking their first steps.
Sustainability Pathway – an online tool that helps clubs plan and track their sustainability progress, including the full Resource Pack plus structured support and guidance.
Winners Church Stretton...
Won a Sustainability Pathway package
Helping them to plan and track their sustainability journey at their own pace.
Including a full Resource Pack plus access to structured support and guidance.
PartnerApp-eal ForSeptember
App-solutelyfreefundingonoffer
Having donated more than £700,000 to sports clubs and groups in 2025 so far, our partner, easyfundraising, is offering an exclusive incentive to sports causes this month…
The Free £2 App-eal
Until 30th September, your team can collect £2 for every person who signs up to easyfundraising via their app.
You just need to follow these steps:
Register your team with easyfundraising: https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/shropshire-fa/
Already registered? Get recruiting using these handy resources.
What is easyfundraising?
easyfundraising is a free, easy, and accessible way for your network to support your team’s plans for this season and beyond.
Your entire community including players, committee, parents simply shop online with their favourite retailers, including ebay, Tesco, Booking.com, Just Eat, Argos, M&S and 8,000 others via the easyfundraising app to collect free funding, courtesy of the retailer, with every purchase!
More than £8m has been raised all time for grassroot sports across the UK, so don’t miss out.
There are more bonus donations to unlock, too!
The more supporters you gather via the app this month, the more bonus donations you can access:
You’re guaranteed to get £2 every time someone downloads and registers to support you via the easyfundraising app. Available for iPhone and Android users.
·Get 10+ supporters signed up via the app this month and you will also unlock the following:
10 new supporters = £10 bonus donation
· 25 new supporters = £50 bonus donation 50 new supporters = £150 bonus donation
The £2 App-eal is a great way for your team to get set for a season of fundraising this autumn – click below to get registered and tell your community about the easyfundraising app! https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/shropshire-fa/ SHROPSHIRE FA NEWSLETTER
“It's free and it's easy - what have you got to lose?” How to secure £2,500 in funding!
As the cost of equipment and facilities continues to rise in grassroots football, we know many of our teams are looking at ways to bring in extra funding. That was the case for Costessey Sports Club, who have amassed more than £2,500 in free funding over recent seasons, with the help of easyfundraising. “It does exactly what it says on the tin - it really is easy fundraising! Every time our members shop online with the appropriate stores, we get free donations without it costing anyone anything. Over the course of time it grows and grows and becomes a habit for you and your supporters.” Paul, Club Secretary.
Read more about how the club have made it a success here. To join them and thousands of other football teams who have raised over £2m to date, register with easyfundraising today HERE!
LetHer Shine
JointheFunwithWildcats &SquadGirls inShropshire!
Are you looking for a fun, friendly, and confidence-boosting way to get your daughter moving?
Whether she’s already football-mad or just wants to try something new, Shropshire FA is proud to support The FA’s Wildcats and Squad Girls programmes, tailor-made football sessions that give girls aged 5-14 a chance to shine
Wildcats, for girls aged 5-11, is a brilliant introduction to football where it’s all about fun, friendships and learning new skills in a safe, pressure-free environment
Whether your child has kicked a ball before or not, every girl is welcome Squad Girls, for ages 12-14, is a natural next step- combining the fun and freedom of Wildcats with more team-based activity
It’s perfect for girls who may have drifted away from football or want to try it for the first time in a relaxed, social setting.
With sessions running in towns and villages across Shropshire, there’s likely a Wildcats or Squad Girls group near you
These programmes are already inspiring hundreds of local girls to be active, build friendships and fall in love with football
Get Involved – Sign Up Today
Contact Dylan Shinton at Shropshire FA for more information dylanshinton@shropshirefacom
Football Development & Community Clubs
The FA Club Programme: Thriving Community Clubs Initiative
Across the country, football clubs are growing in size but becoming fewer in number.
As a result, many are evolving beyond the pitch and positioning themselves as central community hubs
To support this ongoing transformation, The FA has launched the Club Programme, designed to help clubs operate more sustainably, expand their reach and build stronger community ties
The initiative focuses on three core areas:
1 Strengthening Club Finances
Support for clubs to take greater ownership of facilities (e.g., 3G pitches, grass surfaces and clubhouses)
Guidance in developing commercial and sponsorship opportunities
Access to tools and training to enhance financial and business skills
2. Expanding Playing Opportunities
Improved services and benefits for England
Football Accredited clubs to encourage growth
Support for 1*, 2*, and 3* clubs to increase female and disability participation, and to develop coaches, referees and volunteers
Continued backing for smaller clubs across both rural and urban areas
Help in launching FA sessional programmes, including access to funding and training
3 Deepening Community Engagement
Assistance in showcasing and maximising social and economic impact
Mental health signposting support for club members and wider communities
Links to other community groups and services (e.g., NHS, police, refugee networks)
This initiative is designed to help clubs become Thriving Community Clubs - defined as 3-star accredited clubs with strong leadership, robust governance and a supported coaching and volunteer network.
This month, Football Development Officer Dylan Shinton, alongside Club Consultant Martin Harrison, held initial meetings with local clubs to begin this exciting journey
If you're a 2 or 3-star club and want to get started on the programme, get in touch at dylanshinton@shropshirefacom to gain access to the Club Programme Platform
History Made
Unity struck first late in the first half with a superb free kick, but the 99’ers showed grit and determination. After dominating the second half, Richard Pike smashed home the equaliser into the roof of the net, following brilliant work from Andy Taylor.
From there it was all about the team performance – every player gave it their all whilst being cheered on by a fantastic crowd on a warm summer’s day.
And the reward?
The 99’ers are heading to the NATIONAL FINALS this September for the very first time!
What a moment for the club – well done............
September,2025
YourVoice,YourGame,Your Future:JoinShropshireFA's YouthCouncil ShropshireFAiscallingfor dynamicyoungpeopleaged
The beautiful game belongs to everyone, but too often, the voices that matter most - those of young people who live and breathe football - aren't heard in the boardrooms where decisions are made.
That's changing. Shropshire FA's Youth Council is your chance to be at the heart of football development, ensuring that what matters to you and your peers becomes a priority at county level.
What Is the Youth Council?
The Shropshire FA Youth Council is more than just a talking shop. It's a powerful platform where passionate young players, referees, coaches, fans and future leaders come together to drive real change. Whether you're concerned about grassroots facilities, want to see more opportunities for women and girls, or believe we can do better supporting young referees, this is where your voice will be heard.
The council works directly with Shropshire FA's leadership team, board members and the wider football community. Your ideas won't just sit in a folder somewhere - they'll influence policy, shape programmes and create lasting change across our county's football landscape.
We Need Leaders, Champions and Change-Makers
Right now, we're looking for exceptional young people to fill seven key positions that will define how football develops in Shropshire:
Chair: Are you a natural leader who can bring people together and drive meaningful change? The Chair sets the vision, leads meetings and acts as the primary voice of young people in Shropshire football. You'll work directly with senior staff and represent youth perspectives at the highest level.
Vice-Chair: Perfect for someone who loves supporting others while taking on leadership responsibilities. You'll work hand-in-hand with the Chair, coordinate projects and ensure every council member feels valued and heard.
Referee Champion: Calling all current or aspiring referees! Help us tackle the referee shortage by promoting opportunities, supporting young officials and creating a positive environment for those brave enough to take the whistle.
Women and Girls Champion: Football is for everyone, but we know barriers still exist for female participation. Lead the charge in breaking down these barriers, celebrating role models and creating pathways for women and girls to thrive in every aspect of the game.
Disability Champion: Ensure football truly is accessible to all by championing opportunities for players with disabilities, raising awareness of challenges faced by those with additional needs and driving inclusion initiatives.
Are you passionate about football? Ready to make a real difference?
Who Are We Looking For?
You don't need to be the next Messi or have coaching badges to apply. We're looking for young people aged 14-24 who:
Are genuinely passionate about football in any capacity
Want to make a positive difference in their local football community
Can commit time and energy to council activities
Are willing to speak up for what they believe in
Want to develop their leadership skills
Represent the diversity of football fans, players, officials and volunteers across Shropshire
Whether you're a grassroots player, a Sunday league regular, someone who's faced barriers in football, a dedicated volunteer, or simply someone who loves the game and wants to see it thrive - we want to hear from you.
Ready to Step Up?
Coaches and Volunteers Champion: Grassroots football depends on dedicated coaches and volunteers. Help us support, develop and celebrate these essential people while creating pathways for more young people to step into these vital roles.
Head of Social Media and Marketing: Got a flair for content creation and digital engagement? Take charge of amplifying the youth voice across social platforms, creating engaging campaigns and ensuring our message reaches every corner of Shropshire's football community.
What's In It for You?
This isn't just about giving back (though that's incredibly rewarding). Joining the Youth Council offers you:
Real leadership experience that looks fantastic on university applications and CVs
Direct access to senior football administrators and industry professionals Skills development in areas like public speaking, project management and strategic thinking
Networking opportunities with other passionate young people and football leaders
The chance to create lasting change in something you care deeply about Enhanced understanding of how football governance and development actually works
Football needs fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and the energy that only young people can bring. This is your opportunity to move beyond just watching from the sidelines and become an active architect of football's future in Shropshire.
The roles we've outlined are just the beginning. Depending on interest and passion, we're open to expanding into areas. If you have a particular area you're passionate about, we want to hear about it.
How to Apply
Contact Dylan Shinton at: Dylan.Shinton@shropshirefa.co m
Or complete the application form: Shropshire FA Youth Council
Message
ToOurClubSecretaries
You may be aware that the whole game system has retired, and your discipline has migrated across to the club portal
Please see below from The FA
It’s important that you view the guidance on how to administer your discipline, as late fees will automatically be applied if you do not create your own invoice after 14 days
Guidance can be found here: Discipline : Grassroots Technology
Referee Courses
FEMALE ONLY COURSE - Telford College, Friday 10th October (6.30pm- 9.30pm) and Sunday 12th October (9am - 4pm) - Book Here
Referee Registration is OPEN, referees will be able to re-register via the new Referee Portal at referees thefa com
A reminder - you cannot referee fixtures until you are registered with the FA If you are having problems please complete the registration help form: https://forms.gle/pj2Un3T6XF17ARcC9
BritishHeart Foundation FundraisingUpdate
Shropshire FA Team Raises Over £1,000 for British Heart Foundation After Completing Challenging Walk
The Shropshire Football Association team successfully completed their ambitious sponsored walkathon day in aid of the British Heart Foundation, raising over £1,000 so far for the vital cause and bringing the local community together to highlight the devastating impact of heart disease.
The event took place on Saturday 2nd August and exceeded all expectations, demonstrating the power of sport to unite communities around important health causes that affect thousands of families across Shropshire.
Outstanding Community Response
The team has raised over £1,000 so far, with donations continuing to come in from supporters across the county.
As the Shropshire FA’s chosen charity for two years, and with a target of £10k to raise, the funds will directly support the British Heart Foundation's life-saving research and vital support services for the over two million people across the UK currently living with heart-related conditions.
"We are absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown by our local football community," said Sam Griffiths, Designated Safeguarding Officer who led the walkathon fundraising effort.
"To have raised over £1,000 is incredible, but more importantly, we've raised awareness about heart disease and shown that football can be a real force for good in our communities.
"Every step was a reminder of why this cause matters so much," Sam reflected after completing the team’s challenge, which included walking challenges around Shifnal Town FC and Telford Town FC along with members of the team climbing The Wrekin and Brown Clee.
“The support from both football clubs and the community throughout the day was incredible and kept us all motivated."
Continuing Impact
The £1,000+ raised will fund crucial British Heart Foundation research, support services, and education programmes that save lives and improve outcomes for heart patients across the UK. With 120 people losing their lives to heart-related conditions each month in Shropshire alone, the funds will make a real difference to families throughout the region.
Support Still Welcome
Donations continue to be welcomed and can be made via the fundraising page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/shropshire-fafundraising-for-british-heart-foundation
About the British Heart Foundation
The British Heart Foundation is the UK's leading heart charity, funding lifesaving research and supporting millions of people living with heart disease. Every pound raised helps fund crucial research, support services, and education programmes that save lives and improve outcomes for heart patients
Support The Team
To support the team and donate, please click on the link: https://wwwgofundme com/f/shropshi re-fa-fundraising-for-british-heartfoundation
SAFEGUARDING 2032 WITH SAM
For all safeguarding queries contact Sam Griffiths, Shropshire FA Designated Safeguarding Officer sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com
SAFEGUARDING INTRODUCTION
“As we approach the start of a new season, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all clubs for what has been a fantastic first year for me as Designated Safeguarding Officer The support I’ve received has been truly appreciated, and together we ’ ve achieved important milestones in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children in football. Looking ahead to the new season, I am pleased to introduce the launch of regular safeguarding newsletters, which will provide essential information and updates for clubs, parents, and players across the game Thank you once again for your continued support and commitment to safeguarding in football”
NEW FOR 2025
We have changed the way we do DBS please see the guidance videos below for all DBS to be completed through Know Your People.
DBS Guidance | 1 Initiating a DBS check Clubs & Individuals
DBS Guidance | 2 Completing the application
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
INTRODUCING THENEW SHROPSHIREFA SPIRITOFTHE GAMEAWARD
Spirit of the Game Award
The Shropshire FA is proud to introduce a brand new award replacing last season’s Fair Play Award - the Spirit of the Game Award This award has been created to recognise and celebrate the positive contributions of individuals involved in grassroots football across the county Whether it's a player showing exceptional sportsmanship, a coach inspiring respect and inclusion, a referee going above and beyond, or a volunteer making a difference behind the scenes, this award highlights those who truly embody the values of fair play, integrity, and community spirit. The Spirit of the Game Award is our way of saying thank you to those who make football more than just a game.
If you want to become our official partners of the Spirit of the Game Award please email: Andy.weston@shropshirefa.com
SafeguardingTeam
SamGriffiths-Designated SafeguardingOfficer
DesignatedSafeguardingOfficer(DSO)
SamGriffiths
sam.griffiths@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07918764766
DeputyDesignatedSafeguardingOfficer (DDSO)
TomWellings
tom.wellings@shropshirefa.com 01743362769/07719047701
TomWellings-Referees &Facilities
SeniorSafeguardingLead(SSL)
AndyWeston andyweston@shropshirefacom 01743362769
AndyWeston-CEO& SeniorSafeguardingLead
ZoeGriffiths-Headof FootballServices
DeputySeniorSafeguardingLead(DSSL) ZoeGriffiths zoegriffiths@shropshirefacom 01743362769/07736956038
2HighStreet,Dawley, Telford,Shropshire,TF42ET
01743362769
Iinfo@shropshirefa.com
https://wwwshropshirefacom/ @ShropshireFA shropsfa
ShropshireFootballAssociation
ShropshireFA
New Sessional Programmes Launched via Book Football
JULY HAS SEEN AN EXCITING DEVELOPMENT IN THE JUST PLAY PROGRAMME, WITH TWO INNOVATIVE SESSION TYPES ADDED TO HELP GROW GRASSROOTS PARTICIPATION:
Learn to Play
Aimed at adult women of all abilities, this initiative offers a welcoming space to get active, make friends, and take their first steps into football.
With the Lionesses defending their European crown this summer, there's no better time to introduce more women to the game - whether they’re parents, coaches or newcomers
Kickabout
Football in its simplest form - a relaxed, social kickabout for players of all fitness and skill levels
Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the game in a no-pressure environment.
Session Support
Clubs running six or more sessions through Book
Football will receive:
20 branded bibs
5 footballs
First aid kit
Equipment bag
Promotional banner
Organiser kit (t-shirt & sweatshirt)
Session activity cards
Interested in running Learn to Play, Kickabout or other sessions such as Wildcats or Comets?
Contact dylan shinton@shropshirefacom to get started.
These programmes are fantastic tools for community outreach - and potential pathways into club teams
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.”
