Lincolnshire Football Association has been shortlisted as a finalist twice in the Football Development category at the 2022 County FA Recognition Awards, for our Cerebral Palsy and Frame Football Programme and our Walking Football Programme. 

The Awards, which will be announced at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Thursday 15 September 2022, recognise and endorse the best projects, products and services delivered by County FAs over the past two seasons while sharing best practice and learnings from around the country.

A record breaking 235 submissions have been entered from the 50 County FAs operating across England, highlighting continuous improvements and showcasing how they are innovating to improve grassroots football and increase participation across all levels of the game. 

The eleven categories which will be recognised at the awards were: 

• Brand Engagement
• Coach Development
• Digital Engagement
• Employee Engagement
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Football Development
• Insight & Data
• Partnership
• Special recognition
• Women & Girls
• Youth Engagement

Steph Powell, Head of Football Development at Lincolnshire FA, said: “We are delighted that the hard work and investment from our Football Development Officers is being recognised nationally. 

“Both programmes have made a difference to clubs and local communities as well as the football landscape county wide; however, the most notable impact is the real-life effect of true football for all on individuals. 

“They have given young people the opportunity to access the game with an offer that has never been there previously, or the chance for somebody recovering from a cardiac arrest to still engage with the game they love. You cannot measure the power of that. 

“We are proud of what we have delivered up to now but continue to work hard across all areas of the game to ensure more people are united and inspired. Here’s hoping for a win on the day!”

The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster, added: “I’d like to congratulate Lincolnshire County FA in making the final shortlist for the Football Development award, and all of the other County FAs for their excellent submissions which are testament to their dedication and achievements over the past two seasons.

“The long-standing partnership between the FA and County FAs is a crucial part of our long-term strategy for grassroots football. The partnership is committed to serving those that participate and are involved in the game, and providing the leadership needed to ensure future generations continue to enjoy and benefit from our national game.

“We look forward to recognising and rewarding our County FAs at Wembley Stadium in September and thanking each and every one of them for the vital work they deliver across their local communities.”