AFC Stoneham to host Community Football Day on Sunday, July 9

The free-entry day will have a “something for everyone” approach, with refreshments, games and activities, inflatables etc. for everyone to enjoy, but with football at its core.

The FA works with its official community partner McDonald’s to celebrate grassroots football and create opportunities for all to play football across England.

Community Football Days are designed to showcase grassroots football in the area, welcoming players who are new to the game along with those who already play, regardless of their ability or experience.

They are a useful recruitment vehicle to help continue to grow the game from both a player and volunteer perspective.

Sunday’s event will promote and demonstrate various types of football, including walking, ladies’, girls’, pan disability, futsal and mini soccer. Skills classes and sessions will run throughout.

Visitors are invited to watch all aspects of the game and then join a coaching session and hopefully play themselves on the day.

AFC Stoneham chairman Mark Stupple said: “ We are delighted to be hosting this event for Hampshire which not only gives us an opportunity to promote our club but, more importantly, spread the word to the wider community about so many different aspects of football which currently have huge growth opportunities and remain untapped by many clubs including ourselves.

“For example, we have a wonderful ladies’ team but still no girls’ teams which we would love to have at AFC Stoneham. Walking football is enjoying huge growth throughout the UK and we would welcome the opportunity to develop these types of football teams.

“Like every grassroots, voluntary-run organisation, not just football, we desperately need more help and volunteers.

“The community day hopefully allows us the chance to reach out to some new helpers.”

Gates will open at 9.30am with the first event at 10.30am. Entry is free. For more details contact chairman@afcstoneham.co.uk or 07764 882966.