Events & Seasonality

In a groundbreaking move to enhance youth football development, The Football Association (FA) has announced the 'FutureFit' initiative, set to commence in the 2026-27 season. A central feature of this initiative is the introduction of a 3v3 playing format for Under-7 players, aiming to maximize engagement and provide young talents with more time on the ball. Why 3v3 Football for...

You’ve heard the rave reviews football rebounders have been getting from coaches and players and you’re ready to buy one! That’s great news. But there are a few things you should know before diving in.  Not all football rebounders are made equal! Some are simple and perfect for solo practice in the garden. Others are designed for working on multiple...

Being visually impaired doesn’t have to prevent you from enjoying the beautiful game. In fact, there are more options to choose from than ever before.  Of course, the rules have to be significantly adapted to keep players safe. However, if you’re ready to learn what is often, ostensibly, a new version of the game, you can enjoy competitive action on...

The perils of regularly heading a football have been discussed in the media and throughout the game for many years. In recent years, an Alan Shearer documentary and details of Jeff Astle’s dementia diagnosis have intensified the debate.  Very few people are calling for an outright ban on heading, as it’s an integral part of the game. All sports have...

Technology is now part and parcel of professional football – for good or bad. While it usually enhances the game, it’s not without its critics. That’s mainly because there are laws, not rules. Just about every contentious decision is open to debate. Nevertheless, VAR, goal-line technology and the upcoming automated offside system are going nowhere.  But it’s not just the...

Whether you’re refereeing Sunday league football or an aspiring pro ref, you’ll need to build a high-quality equipment inventory to ensure you’re always ready to officiate.  Here at The Soccer Store, we like to help players, coaches and match officials prepare for match action, which is why we’ve created this list of essential and desirable kit bag items for grassroots...

If you have a pair of popup soccer goals at your disposal, you’ll never have too much trouble setting up a game or training session. Whether you’re enjoying a family picnic or a day at the beach, lightweight and portable football goals you simply unfold and put on the ground have the potential to transform your relationship with the beautiful...

Playing football at the grassroots level isn’t always easy. Whether you’re struggling to buy the necessary football equipment or find a local team, getting involved can be a challenge. That’s why finding fun alternatives that are accessible and easy to play is important.  Yes, nothing beats the traditional game in terms of fun and coming together with your peers in...

Grassroots football in the UK might be on life support, but there is still hope for the future. While the cost of living crisis has affected the game in communities across the country, help is available — albeit limited in nature.  While the issue of chronic underfunding is still holding the game back at the grassroots level, there are some...

It’s important never to lose sight of just how important grassroots football is in the UK. The beautiful game brings people together, gives young people a sense of purpose and keeps people fit. The more local teams there are, the better it is for society as a whole. But the cost of starting a grassroots football team has never been...