Kick It Out is teaming up the game's key agencies in South Yorkshire this month for an event aimed at helping grassroots and amateur clubs across the region.
‘One Game Sheffield’, held at the English Institute of Sport on Coleridge Road, Sheffield, will bring together the County FA and pioneering local campaigning group, Football Unites, Racism Divides, to discuss some of the burning issues facing the game at amateur level.
Piara Powar, Director for Kick It Out, is hoping for healthy turnout from the areas football community: “This is a unique opportunity for amateur and community groups to have their voice heard. A range of topics will be on the agenda, from funding advice to staging events and guidance on promoting a club at community level.
"We’re urging groups and individuals that wish to play a bigger role within South Yorkshire football to join the debate and air their views.”
A panel discussion including Sheffield United legend, Tony Agana, will take place followed by an awards ceremony for local projects. One topic high on the agenda will explore how youth teams from marginalised communities can get involved in the many official leagues across the area.
Howard Holmes, founder of FURD, has witnessed the way in which structured football has helped some of the young footballers at his project over the years: "We regularly advocate the benefits of joining a local league to the youngsters and players we come into contact with at FURD.
"From both a social and sporting perspective, playing the game in an organised league format allows more interaction with people from different backgrounds and communities, often an enriching experience particularly for those from migrant communities.
"In addition, there’s an improved chance of extending their skills as players and being spotted by local scouts."
In addition, Kick It Out, Sheffield and Hallamshire County FA and Football Unites, Racism Divides will all be available before the event for individual advice sessions.
