It Starts with Grassroots: Players Giving Back to the Game
Football journeys often begin not under the floodlights of Old Trafford or Wembley, but on muddy pitches, village greens, and local parks. The It Starts with Grassroots initiative celebrates exactly that – shining a light on the grassroots clubs where so many young players first fell in love with the game, while encouraging today’s professionals to give back and support the next generation.
Already, the initiative has drawn fantastic early support from players both young and established:
Jarrad Branthwaite has proudly backed Abbeytown Juniors in Wigton, where his own career began.
Liam and Finn Delap have stepped up for Duffield Dynamos and Letterkenny Rovers.
Tom Lawrence has shown his support for Penyffordd FC.
Danny and Stan Mills have returned the favour to Pannal FC in Harrogate.
And Sir Gareth Southgate has lent his support to Selsdon Junior FC.
The Elite Making a Real Difference to Grassroots
This initiative is more than just nostalgia – it’s about recognising the vital role grassroots football plays in shaping young people both on and off the pitch. By supporting their childhood clubs, these players are ensuring that today’s volunteers, coaches, and parents are equipped with the very best tools to educate and inspire the next generation.
There’s a brilliant feel-good factor around the initiative: players giving back, communities feeling valued, and young players seeing clear role models who once stood in their shoes. And who knows? With the right support, the next Harry Kane, Phil Foden, or Leah Williamson may already be pulling on their first grassroots kit at one of these clubs.
The message is simple but powerful: it really does start with grassroots. And with the backing of players past and present, this initiative has the potential to leave a lasting legacy across the game.
👉 If you’re a player who would like to give back to your grassroots club, get in touch at chris@thecoachingmanual.com