Northumberland FA, Utilita Energy and TeamGrassroots will provide posters, bibs and leaflets to clubs and leagues

We’ve joined forces with Northumberland County FA to promote their 100% Positive message across the season – encouraging Respect and positive behaviour in the grassroots game.

Utilita Energy’s ‘Grassroots Fund’ – which is administered by TeamGrassroots each month – has funded the creation and distribution of thousands of cards, signage and respect marshal bibs which will be distributed to local clubs. It’s hoped that they’ll provide a visible reminder to players, coaches and spectators about the importance of positivity.

Teamgrassroots represents the grassroots community and offers support, resources and advocacy on behalf the millions of people that play the game or support the game. They offer a comprehensive knowledge base to assist anyone who has a part to play in making grassroots football the wonderful institution that it is.

Teamgrassroots Paul Kirton said:

“The Respect campaign has been very effective in reminding players that without a referee, there is no game. The regular reminders are necessary, as passionate players can sometimes be quick to forget, so these packs will go a long way in spreading the message and making sure we all remember to respect the referee’s decision each and every game.”

Helen Beales, Head of Business Development at Northumberland FA added:

“Our on-going 100% Positive campaign has really promoted the importance of good behaviour across the grassroots game, and we’re delighted to be partnering with Teamgrassroots to promote the message even further. Look out for the cards, signage and marshal bibs coming to your team soon.”

James Heyes, Partnerships Manager at Utilita Energy comments on the important investment:

“Our long-term investment in football, from grassroots to the Premier League, has become ever more important today – the sport needs as much support as it can get to recover from the devastating effects caused by the pandemic.

“Respect, not only for the ref, but for everyone who makes the effort to muck-in is so important – it’s what motivates volunteers to continue. Utilita’s State of Play report revealed that two in every five parents help their kids’ club in some way (41%) – whether that’s coaching, refereeing matches, on the touchline, ferrying kids to matches, washing kits, or making tea in the clubhouse – football exists through community involvement.”

Contact Northumberland County FA for further details