LRCFA Scores New Partnership With Goals

Goals and Leicestershire and Rutland County FA have agreed to a partnership that will help extend affiliated football across the counties.

We are thrilled to work with GOALS to offer more opportunities for football and community-based projects.

Goals logo

GOALS operates a site situated in Evington, Wakerley Road, known for providing the finest small-sided football facilities in Leicestershire. The facilities boast individually floodlit arenas with cutting-edge, all-weather surfaces. Additionally, GOALS organises competitive leagues and local tournaments, adding excitement to the football experience.

Planned projects include training, development, and recruitment of referees and coaches. Both organisations will also work together to increase participation in women’s football, veterans’ football and walking football. This will provide pathways into the sport for those with protected characteristics.

Martin Cassidy, National Football Development Officer at GOALS, stated: “This partnership fits perfectly into GOALS’ mission statement: to provide equal access to premium small-sided football facilities while promoting physical and mental well-being and community spirit through football.

"Although we, as a national stakeholder in football, have not affiliated with the FA for some years, we feel that due to the changes in the landscape of small-sided football and the demands of the modern game, now is the perfect time to work closely with other stakeholders, including The FA and County FAs to grow the game as part of the strategy for 2024-2028. For many, we know that grassroots football starts in the small-sided realm, and we believe that GOALS can have a huge and positive impact on the game in all its forms that will deliver positive and measurable outcomes for all.”

Joe Dunmore, CEO of Leicestershire and Rutland County FA is excited about the benefits this partnership will offer. He said: "Partnering with like-minded organisations is essential for the continuous advancement of grassroots football, benefiting both players and the multitude of volunteers that keep it operating. We eagerly anticipate the growth of opportunities through the collaboration between Leicestershire and Rutland County FA and GOALS, fostering increased participation for all.

Matt Yeomans, Head of Commercial & Marketing at the County FA added: "By teaming up with GOALS, we can have an even wider positive impact across our community. Both on the pitch, where high-quality facilities are guaranteed from GOALS to the excellent meeting room and bar spaces; this agreement will allow us to set up exciting new projects involving all the LRCFA staff and their various work programmes.”

To find out more about GOALS, please visit their website here.