The 13-18 year olds enjoyed a day of practical workshops designed to give them an insight into how they can get involved in developing the grassroots game within their local community.
A wide range of aspects of football development were delivered including Age Appropriate Coaching 5-11years, Introduction to Disability Football, Refereeing and a Fitness, Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle Workshop. Each Young Leader was provided with football information packs on the ‘next steps’ they can take to further develop their knowledge of football.
Information on forthcoming Referee and Coaching Courses, FA Step into Sport Programme, Charter Standard Clubs, Women and Girls Football and Disability Football were discussed and progressive pathways within the Liverpool FA and FA were highlighted.
Liverpool FA’s Organisers where assisted throughout the day by the Lancashire Skills Team whose Introduction to Age Appropriate Coaching 5-11 years was very popular and thoroughly enjoyable.
Local Special School Sandfield Park came along with 12 pupils who took part in the Introduction to Disability Football session where took part in a practical coaching worshop. Liverpool FA worked in partnership with Liverpool’s Primary Care Trust who provided a proactive Workshop on Fitness, Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle.
Later in the afternoon, the Leaders took part in a Referee’s Workshop where FA Premiership Referee Chris Foy gave a very interesting presentation on Life as Premiership Referee. The Young Leader’s were shown the roles and responsibilities of refereeing and given information on the FA’s Respect Programme, with Chris Foy further highlighting the importance of showing Referees Respect at all levels of the game.
Football Development Officer, Anna Farrell was delighted with their involvement and enthusiasm:
“Overall it was an excellent day and it was great to see so many young leaders involved. They are the future of Football in Merseyside and it is important to offer these opportunities and give them direction and support on their development pathway.”
For further information on how to get involved in volunteering and leadership in Merseyside, please contact Anna Farrell on anna.farrell@liverpoolfa.com or 0151 523 4488 Ext 119.