top of page

Inside Grassroots Football: News, Developments & Initiatives



Grassroots football is the heartbeat of the game, providing opportunities for young players, local clubs, and communities to thrive. From exciting new initiatives to major developments in youth football, here’s everything happening right now.


West Ham Hero George Parris Joins Whitehawk FC to Boost Girls’ Football


Former West Ham and Brighton midfielder George Parris has teamed up with Whitehawk FC to mentor young female players at Roedean School. The initiative aims to increase match opportunities, nurture tactical development, and provide a pathway into club football for talented girls.


Parris, now Head of Women and Girls Coaching at Whitehawk, will lead the program alongside Ryan Gaylor, Director of Youth Football. The partnership is designed to embed a strong football culture within Roedean, ensuring young female players have access to structured coaching and competitive fixtures.


Ex-Lioness Anita Asante Encourages Mums to Become Coaches


Former England international Anita Asante is backing the This Mum Campaign with Faversham Strike Force FC to encourage more mothers to take up volunteer coaching. Research shows that 83% of mothers are not involved in their children’s sports clubs, and this initiative aims to reverse that trend.


New findings from UK Coaching reveal that the number of female volunteer coaches has dropped by 10% in recent years. Asante believes that mothers can play a crucial role in shaping the future of girls’ football, providing role models and support systems for young players.


Irish FA Proposes New National Football Centre at Galgorm


The Irish Football Association (IFA) has submitted plans for a multi-million-pound national football centre at Galgorm. The facility will feature world-class pitches, cutting-edge training facilities, and a dedicated space for both elite and grassroots players.


The 50-acre site is expected to complement Windsor Park, creating a dual-campus setup to strengthen Northern Ireland’s football infrastructure. The IFA describes the project as a bold investment in the future of the game, designed to support youth development and bolster team performance.


Young Talents Shine in Spanish Regional Youth Leagues


Three young players—Jake Galia, Lucas Rodriguez, and Jasper Wiseman—have made history in CD San Roque’s youth setup, helping the club win the provincial league title and secure promotion to the Autonómico division.


Galia, a central defender, scored an impressive 21 goals throughout the season, finishing as the league’s seventh top scorer. Head coach Miguel Lorente praised the trio, highlighting their technical ability, leadership, and tactical intelligence.


Final Thoughts


Grassroots football continues to grow and evolve, with initiatives supporting youth development, inclusivity, and community engagement. Whether it’s mentoring young players, providing free kits, or building world-class facilities, the grassroots game remains the foundation of football’s future.


Steve Halls is an FA-qualified football coach specialising in talent identification, player development, and mentorship. With a deep understanding of grassroots football, Steve provides expert guidance to help aspiring footballers maximise their potential and navigate the competitive world of football. Whether in Cheshunt or across the globe, Steve supports individuals and teams in achieving their footballing dreams.











⚽ FA Introduction to Coaching Football (Level 1) – In Depth Overview



The FA Introduction to Coaching Football – previously known as FA Level 1 – is the perfect launchpad for anyone beginning their coaching journey. Whether you're supporting your child’s grassroots team or aspiring to climb the professional ladder, this course provides you with the confidence, knowledge, and structure to get started the right way.


"You don’t need to have played the game to teach the game. You just need the heart to inspire others."

🎓 Course Structure at a Glance


  • 💻 Delivered 100% online

  • 🧠 Self-paced learning (12–15 hours over ~6 weeks)

  • 🗣️ Live virtual classrooms with FA tutors

  • 🌍 Access to England Football's Coach Community

  • ✅ Includes safeguarding and first steps into football philosophy


"Great coaches aren't born — they’re developed through learning, listening, and leading."

🧩 What You’ll Learn – Module by Module


🔒 Creating Safe, Fun and Inclusive Environments


This is the foundation of the course. You’ll learn how to:


  • Create sessions that are safe and enjoyable

  • Understand and act on safeguarding responsibilities

  • Welcome players of all backgrounds and abilities


“Happy players learn best. Safe environments grow the game.”

🧬 The England DNA – Building a Coaching Identity


Explore the FA’s national coaching framework:


  • Develop your own values and coaching style

  • Understand the England DNA and its five key elements

  • Learn the importance of a player-centred approach


🧠 Focus: The Whole Player – Technical, Tactical, Physical, Psychological, and Social development.


🧠 Planning and Delivering Sessions


Get hands-on with session design:


  • Learn how to use the STEP principle (Space, Task, Equipment, People)

  • Design engaging, age-appropriate training plans

  • Develop flexible session structures with warm-ups, core activities, and wrap-ups


📋 Includes ready-made templates and example sessions to inspire you.


🧒 Understanding Your Players


To coach effectively, you must understand who you’re coaching:


  • Learn to adapt communication to suit different age groups

  • Recognise developmental stages of young players

  • Build confidence, creativity, and resilience in your team


“It’s not just about coaching footballers. It’s about developing people.”

🎯 Coaching Through Games


Game-based learning is the heartbeat of modern coaching:


  • Use small-sided games to teach decision-making

  • Keep players active, involved, and learning

  • Turn mistakes into learning moments in real-time


🕹️ Practical tip: Make your sessions look and feel like the game!


📈 Next Steps in Your Coaching Journey


Wrap up with a roadmap for development:


  • Learn about the FA Level 2 / UEFA C Licence

  • Discover CPD opportunities and mentor programmes

  • Reflect on your coaching philosophy and long-term goals


“Coaching is a journey — and this is only the first exciting step.”

🤝 Why This Qualification Matters


Completing the FA’s Introduction to Coaching Football shows that you’re serious about doing things the right way — prioritising development, inclusion, and enjoyment over just winning.

You’ll leave the course with:


✅ A clear coaching philosophy

✅ Practical session ideas

✅ A toolkit for safe, effective coaching

✅ Confidence to lead your team, your way


🌍 Work with a Coach Who’s Been There


Steve Halls is an FA qualified football coach offering consultancy, talent identification, mentoring and player representation in Cheshunt and the surrounding areas. In today’s connected world, Steve can offer his services to players, clubs, and organisations across the globe. Whether you're local or international, you’ll benefit from a coach who brings grassroots knowledge with global insight.











NexxtGen Football Announces Exciting New Partnership with Adidas




Learn more: https://bit.ly/nexxtgenadidas & follow @adidasfootball


NexxtGen Football is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking new partnership with Adidas, one of the world's leading sports brands. This collaboration comes at an opportune time as we gear up for the new season, ensuring our players have access to the very latest football boots and training wear.


About Adidas


Adidas has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1949 by Adi Dassler. The brand has become synonymous with innovation, quality, and excellence in sports apparel and equipment. Over the decades, Adidas has built a formidable reputation, particularly in the world of football. The iconic three stripes have been worn by some of the greatest athletes in history, making Adidas a household name across the globe.


Adidas Football


Adidas Football is at the forefront of the brand's success, consistently pushing the boundaries of football technology and design. Their range of football boots, including the iconic Predator, has set new standards in the sport. The Predator, first released in 1994, revolutionised football footwear with its unique rubberised zones designed to enhance control and swerve. This boot quickly became a favourite among top players and has seen numerous iterations over the years, each improving on the last.


Iconic Players and Sponsorships


Adidas has sponsored some of the most famous football players in history. Legends such as Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and Lionel Messi have all worn Adidas boots during their illustrious careers. The brand continues to support a new generation of stars, including Paul Pogba, Mohamed Salah, and Paulo Dybala, ensuring that the Adidas legacy remains strong on the world stage.





A Word from Steve Halls


Steve Halls, founder of NexxtGen Football, expressed his excitement about the new partnership:

"This collaboration with Adidas is a monumental step for NexxtGen Football. Adidas is a brand that resonates with excellence and innovation, qualities we strive to instil in our players. As we prepare for the new season, this partnership ensures our players will have access to the best football boots and training wear available. The timing couldn't be better, as our boys are eagerly looking forward to gearing up in the latest Adidas gear."


Halls continued, "We've always believed in providing our players with top-notch resources, and this partnership with Adidas takes it to the next level. The history and prestige of Adidas Football, especially with iconic products like the Predator boots, align perfectly with our mission to develop the next generation of football stars."


Visit Adidas Football


Explore the latest range of Adidas Football products here: Adidas Football


Disclaimer


We may receive a small commission for any Adidas products sold via our website.


This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for NexxtGen Football. With Adidas by our side, we are confident that our players will not only perform their best but also feel inspired by the rich legacy of one of football's greatest brands. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this incredible journey together.


Steve Halls is an FA-qualified football coach and football consultant, generally working at grassroots level but hugely passionate about the beautiful game as a whole. Steve works closely with clubs in his local area and offers consultancy services, mentorship, and player representation.


bottom of page