Cumberland FA has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Youth Engagement category at the 2022 County FA Recognition Awards, in recognition for our consultation with young footballers earlier this year. 

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

LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF CHILDREN

Organised in partnership with Cumbria County Council, Workington AFC, Every Life Matters and Kooth, our consultation event focussed on ‘health and wellbeing’, and how football can impact on the wellbeing of participants. 

80 young footballers from a variety of clubs were invited to attend and took part in some small-sided games on the Workington AFC pitch while indoor workshop activities were undertaken to capture the voice of young players. A number of young referees were also involved in the event, refereeing and getting involved in the consultation.

To read more and view results from the event, please click here

The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster, said: “I’d like to congratulate Cumberland FA in making the final shortlist for the Youth Engagement 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.”