In addition to the many new football teams that will be created, the Grow the Game grants will also allow for 6 volunteer coaches to become trained up in the relevant qualifications, in order to deliver age and ability appropriate coaching at the new teams.

Clubs supported by the grant include Onchan, Douglas Royal, Pulrose United and DHSOB with teams being created ranging from U8 Girls to Under 21s. 

The Grow the Game scheme is funded by The FA and delivered by the Football Foundation. The programme is designed to increase participation at the lowest levels of the game with grants of £1,500 available for each new team that a club creates.

Applications from demographics identified as having been traditionally underrepresented in the sport – namely, women and girls; male teams of Under-14s-and-upwards and disability teams – were prioritised.

The funding can help a burgeoning club pay for the fundamentals, including: FA coaching courses; FA league affiliation costs; referees’ fees; first aid kits; and even football kit & equipment.

Amy Beggs-Cairney, IOMFA Football Development Officer said: “This is great news for the Isle of Man. The majority of the 9 teams being created are Junior Girls teams which is encouraging for our target of doubling Women & Girls football by 2020. Thank you to the The FA and Football Foundation for their continued support. .”

Kelly Simmons MBE, The FA’s Director of Participation and Development, said: “Grow the Game not only allows us to focus on helping groups within the grassroots game, but also unearth brand new teams who want to kick a ball and increase participation levels as a result.

“The proposition of 9 new teams and 6 new coaches across the Isle of Man area is extremely encouraging and this investment – which is provided by The FA and delivered by the Football Foundation – means that participation in our national game will increase, especially amongst underrepresented groups.”

Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said: “This is excellent news for grassroots football in the Isle of Man. Grow the Game, which is delivered by the Football Foundation, is about creating long-term participation increases and getting people playing who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to do so. The FA deserves credit for directing investment to help train new coaches and get teams playing in affiliated leagues.”

Photo courtesy of Onchan AFC.