We've been named as winners in the ‘Referee Development’ category at the 2024 County FA Recognition Awards for our work in smoothing the referee youth-to-adult transition within grassroots football.

The awards, which were hosted at Wembley Stadium connected by EE, recognise and endorse the best projects, products and services delivered by County FAs over the past season, while sharing best practice and learnings from around the country. Strategic project work as part of the Bobby Moore Sports Hub at Parsloes Park in Dagenham also resulted in Essex being named as runners-up in the ‘Facility Development’ category.

Over 220 submissions were entered from across the County FA network operating throughout England, highlighting continuous improvements and showcasing how they are innovating to improve grassroots football and increase participation across all levels of the game. The twelve categories recognised at the awards were:

* Brand Engagement
* Coach Development
* Employee Wellbeing & Engagement
* Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
* Facility Development
* Football Development
* Partnership
* Positive Football Environment
* Referee Development
* Special Recognition
* Women & Girls
* Youth Engagement

The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster commented: “Once again, these awards have provided us with a brilliant platform to celebrate the tremendous work that takes place across all of our County FAs.”

“I am always impressed by the quality of the projects submitted, which demonstrate the hard work, passion and dedication across our County FA teams, who work tirelessly to support our grassroots game. My congratulations go to all of the winners, and to everyone involved in delivering new and innovative projects to grow and enhance grassroots football.”

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