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...

Speed is one of grassroots football’s great levellers. It’s an attribute that can nullify a range of technical and tactical strengths if it’s used at the right times in the right ways. Unfortunately, speed is largely a naturally gifted trait. In simple terms, you’re either born with raw pace or you have to work at it. And even if you...

Heading in grassroots football is a controversial issue — particularly in relation to youngsters. But it’s an integral part of the game, so when players are old enough to start heading the ball, it’s a good idea to work on technique and timing.  Whether it’s a defender, a midfielder or an attacker, rising to meet the challenge with power, control...

How many times have you watched with frustration as an elite player misses an opportunity or gets a simple on-field action wrong because they were forced to use their weaker foot?  Yes, one-footedness is something that affects top-level players, so it’s not surprising that those much further down the football pyramid suffer from the same deficiency.  The vast majority of...

If you’re playing in a local league, or even just with friends during the weekends, finding the time to work on your core football skills can be tough. Work and family commitments come first, so any opportunity to enhance your abilities should be embraced.  Fortunately, there are several ways to improve your game without the need to hit the training...

Photo by Anil Sharma: https://www.pexels.com/photo/child-playing-football-photography-anil-sharma-16045547/ If you’re hoping to nurture the next Lionel Messi into a life of professional football, the earlier you start, the better. Young children are like sponges: they absorb a huge amount of information and develop most of their motor skills before the age of five. The window of developmental opportunity is small, so getting them...

You’re never too old to enjoy the thrill of steering your grassroots football team to victory with a timely defensive header or speculative shot. Playing grassroots over-50s football is a great way to stay fit, meet people and stay strong as you grow older.  But before you pull on your football boots for the first time in years, it’s important...

Whether you’re getting on a bit, trying to lose weight or struggling with a disability, walking football could be a great way to get fun and enjoy the thrill of grassroots football with like-minded people.  But how do you play? What are the rules? And where can you play walking football in the UK? We aim to answer all of...

Whether you’re a coach or a grassroots footballer, it’s always good to know how to improve football skills at home. Some teams only get to train once a week, which is nowhere near time to develop core skills such as touch, control and passing. But using the many hours of free time you have at home to hone your skills...