English Schools' Football Association

ESFA Chief Executive, John Read

Greetings from a cold, snowy Stafford!

Further to the Chairman's comprehensive report on internationals and competitions, I would like to concentrate on different footballing matters this month. However, before moving on I must report that since the Chairman penned his notes we have had the first ever 'home' match for the under 15 girls' international squad. After 5 'away' matches over the past 2 years we have finally completed our first at 'home'. At the new "Home of English Football", St George's Park, we entertained our colleagues from Scotland. Although we recorded a 1-3 defeat our girls played with skill, energy and commitment and might well have held on for a 1-1 draw. Like their male counterparts all the girls can be proud of their sportsmanship and behaviour. The girls' progress to the Bob Docherty Cup, in Belfast over Easter

Grants for 9v9 Goalposts

District and County secretaries are requested to notify the schools affiliated to them that the FA, through the Football Foundation, will fund 50% of the cost of purchasing new 9 v 9 goalposts. Everyone is reminded that, as part of the FA Youth Review, under 11 age football is to be restricted to a maximum of 9 a-side as from the start of the new season 2013-2014. This will then apply to under 12 age group from the beginning of season 2014-2015. Schools must apply through their County Football Association (contact numbers through the CFA websites or the FA's web site www.TheFA.com. Funding applications maybe made NOW, but the window of opportunity will end on 31st May 2013. There will be another window of opportunity later in the year, but schools are advised to apply now as money maybe short in the next tranche.

New Football Association Chairman

The FA have announced that the former TV executive, Greg Dyke will succeed David Bernstein as Chairman of the FA in July. For more information on this appointment please visit this link for the full story.

Schools’ Football Research Project

I wish to extend my thanks to those of you who took part in the recent Schools' Football Research Project. The findings have now been received by ESFA/FA Working Group and will be incorporated in the new 3 Year development Plan, where appropriate. There have been some very interesting results that will no doubt influence our delivery plans for the future. One major point, also identified by the ESFA Development Plan Working Group and the Honorary Auditors, is one of "Raising the Profile of the ESFA". This is something I think we should all be mindful of and ensure that the good work in delivering football into schools is not only appreciated but made known to a much wider audience.

ESFA AGM

Membership is reminded that the AGM this year will be held in Stafford on 29th June. Items for the Agenda need to be with me on or before the 1st May 2013.

County Schools’ Business Plans

My thanks to all the County and District secretaries for their work in putting together the annual County Plans. These will now form the basis for the National ESFA plan which is submitted to the FA for funding. I am pleased to announce that the FA have already agreed to further support girls' football and futsal over the next 4 years. As the Chairman has stated, this is always a very busy time for myself and my staff with a full programme of internationals and national cup finals to deliver before the end of May. Take care, stay warm and keep on playing!