FIVE ‘Book Football’ Providers in Essex earned an unforgettable opportunity to ‘Play on the Pitch’ at Wembley Stadium connected by EE in December, recognising their outstanding commitment to offering recreational football opportunities within their communities.
The winners were selected through a prize draw after consistently listing sessions and registering participants via The FA’s Book Football platform. Their efforts have helped to widen access to recreational football across Essex, complementing their regular competitive programmes and supporting the growth of the local grassroots game.
This initiative highlights the vital role that providers play in increasing participation and ensuring that football is accessible, enjoyable and welcoming for all. The chance to step onto the national stadium pitch was fitting recognition for their dedication. The experience also formed part of The FA’s ‘Thank You’ campaign, which has already seen more than 3,000 thank you messages sent to volunteers across the country.
Volunteers changed in the England dressing rooms, wore personalised kits, saw their names and thank you messages displayed on the big screen and had the occasion captured by a dedicated photography and video team. The exclusive reward was part of the ‘England Football Family’ programme, a free initiative created to recognise and celebrate grassroots volunteers who help the game thrive week in, week out.
Marina Winter of Flitch United FC was rewarded for the club’s ‘Just Play’ provision, and she reacted: “Our club ethos is ‘one club, one family’. Just Play, and the support we have received from Emma Burden at the Essex County FA, have enabled us to now provide footballing opportunities for our ladies, hence now forming an integral part of our club family.”
“To be recognised for our achievements is just incredible, and means so much to all those involved but, importantly, to our ladies. A big thank you to all! To attend Wembley with our Coach, Kerrie, and players, Ashleigh and Liah, was just what dreams are made of. A truly memorable night, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you to all involved – these were very special memories which will be with us forever.”
Essex County FA Football Development Officer, Emma Burden, described the recognition as a proud moment for local clubs: “It’s absolutely brilliant to see five of the Essex clubs recognised for their hard work in driving the recreational programmes forward. What a brilliant opportunity and, hopefully, a memory created for life. The chance to play on the turf at Wembley is something football lovers all dream of.”
Clubs interested in expanding their recreational offer – including Wildcats, Squad Girls, Just Play or Comets sessions – or those seeking help uploading opportunities (or registering participants) to the ‘Book Football’ platform, are encouraged to contact their local Essex County FA Football Development Officer. To explore, or apply for, any of the Book Football programmes, visit: https://book.englandfootball.com.
Essex’s ‘Play on the Pitch’ Winners
Zoe Eldridge (Valley Green FC)
Marina Winter (Flitch United FC)
Keith Di Palma (Tigers JFC)
Emma Burden (Springfield Girls FC)
Ian Clifford (St Clere’s FC)
