Why I Play Football

WHY I PLAY FOOTBALL

Staffordshire FA have sat down with Youth Players to find out why our kids really play football?

Connect and combine creatively with others. Master a variety of techniques and roles. Positive and intelligent reactions. These are three Key aspects of the England DNA, but why do our kids really play football?

Staffordshire FA are working hard in order to gain as much insight as possible as to why players across Staffordshire play the beautiful game. Most recently, the County FA sat down with 8 youth footballers ranging from the ages of 8 - 12 to find out the reasons why they play the game.

Working alongside FA Community Club of the Year, Wyrley Juniors FC the video has been put together to support the Club with educating parents and coaches as to the reasons why their players engage with the game.

The video links into a number of FA Programmes such as the England DNA and the Respect Programme, but also highlights some elements that children don't enjoy. Positives such as how they like learning new skills, how the sport keeps them fit and healthy, and how the game is fun attracts young people to the game. However, elements such as the influence of coaches and parents can often deter players away from the game.

Wyrley Juniors FC Chairman, Keith Hardy said "We wanted to hear first hand what motivates our players to want to play. Do their reasons differ to our preconceptions? Does winning come high on their list or is it about having fun, meeting new friends and learning new skills?The honesty shown by our players was refreshing to hear and gave us comfort that the game is safe in their hands."

He added "We intend to use the video as a tool for new and existing parents and coaches to allow them to develop their players in the right way moving forward'

Keith went on to say "we are grateful to Staffordshire FA for their support in this initiative and for producing a professional looking video."

Staffordshire FA Football Development Officer, Daniel Hickinbottom said "It's been great that we've been able to sit down with active players from within the game and gain their honest views about what they do and don't like about grassroots football. It's highlighted that the England DNA is focusing on the correct elements for youth development and that ourselves as a county are working in areas that highlight the positive things that the children have spoken about with programmes such as our Welcome To Football Events and our Coaching Roadshows."

Further Information:

For further information on the England DNA of the Respect Programme please click the relevant links. Additional support can also be accessed from the County FA by contacting the officer on 01785 256994.