Wednesday 6 November 2013

Stephen Metcalfe MP celebrates 150 years of football in England

Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, joined colleagues from across the House last week to celebrate the 150th anniversary of The Football Association and to learn more about the connections between elite and grassroots football.

The local MP was invited to join England Manager Roy Hodgson and FA Chairman Greg Dyke at the special event in parliament to celebrate this landmark anniversary and to get a better understanding of how The FA supports football in England.

Mr Metcalfe, who was photographed at the event with The FA Cup, said: “Football has come such a long way since that first meeting back in 1863 which created the first laws of the game.”

“Today it plays a huge part in the lives of millions across the country and whilst it’s great to see so many people in South Basildon and East Thurrock enjoying the game, I think more can be done to support grassroots football. This is something I will be looking into.”

In England there are seven million players of all ages and backgrounds who regularly play the game, as well as 400,000 volunteers, 300,000 coaches and 27,000 referees.

Stephen added: “I would like to thank all the volunteers, coaches, and referees in South Basildon and East Thurrock for giving up their time and energy so that people can play football. The life skills gained from being in a team are invaluable and I know players in the  local area appreciate your hard work.” 

For more information about how to get involved in football whether through playing, coaching or refereeing please visit: http://www.thefa.com/my-football