Inside Grassroots Football: News, Developments & Initiatives

NexxtGen Football
Jun 6
2 min read

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.