We're delighted to have been shortlisted in the Coach Development category of the prestigious FA Recognition Awards.

The Awards, which will be announced at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Thursday 15 September 2022, recognise and endorse the best projects, products and services delivered by County FAs over the past two seasons while sharing best practice and learnings from around the country.

 A record breaking 235 submissions have been entered from the 50 County FAs operating across England, highlighting continuous improvements and showcasing how they are innovating to improve grassroots football and increase participation across all levels of the game.

 The eleven categories which will be recognised at the awards were:

• Brand Engagement
• Coach Development
• Digital Engagement
• Employee Engagement
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Football Development
• Insight & Data
• Partnership
• Special recognition
• Women & Girls
• Youth Engagement

Our Coach the Coach programme has impacted around 1000 coaches since it's launch this past season, through series of face to face workshops designed to help our coaches develop their practice. Many of the sessions have been delivered in conjunction with Coach Developers from The FA and also NUFC Academy staff, ensuring that our grassroots coaches benefit from the knowledge and experience of people who work at the very top of the game.

 An additional 62 coaches have joined our free mentoring programme, which supports new coaches and helps them to build skills and confidence.

 The programme also features our highly popular webinar and podcast series - the podcast alone has seen over 2300 downloads since it's launch. 

Northumberland FA's Chief Executive, Andrew Rose-Cook, said: "We're thrilled that our Coach the Coach programme has been recognised for the benefits it's bringing to coaches across our area. Ensuring that they feel supported and helping them to develop their skills is vital to ensuring that our players, particularly our youngest ones, benefit from first class coaching. This ensures that our players develop their skills, and more importantly, get maximum enjoyment from playing football."

The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster added:

 “I’d like to congratulate Northumberland FA in making the final shortlist for the Coach Development award and all of the other County FAs for their excellent submissions which are testament to their dedication and achievements over the past two seasons.

“The long-standing partnership between the FA and County FAs is a crucial part of our long-term strategy for grassroots football. The partnership is committed to serving those that participate and are involved in the game, and providing the leadership needed to ensure future generations continue to enjoy and benefit from our national game.

“We look forward to recognising and rewarding our County FAs at Wembley Stadium in September and thanking each and every one of them for the vital work they deliver across their local communities.”

For more information on the work of County FAs, visit: https://www.englandfootball.com/explore/county-football-associations