by Caroline McRoyall, County Development Manager, Surrey County Football Association

This month is an opportunity to highlight the Football Association’s new campaign to challenge the nation’s workforce to Get Into Football.

The aim is to inspire mechanics, teachers, accountants, DJs and everyone who loves football to take their first steps to becoming a grassroots coach or referee.

Pulling on their tracksuits today in support of the recruitment drive are former England and Chelsea star Graeme Le Saux and Sky Sports presenter Ben Shephard, who have both pledged their backing.

Lining up alongside the real life stars of the ‘Football Needs’ campaign, Shephard and Le Saux were put through their paces by The FA’s top coaching staff at Burton’s Court to set them on their way to a rewarding career in coaching.

The ‘Football Needs’ nationwide advertising campaign features Jaz Dhami, a Punjabi singer, head teacher Manisha Tailor and air steward David Green, all of whom retain their passion for coaching and refereeing while juggling their busy professional careers.

Singer Jaz commented: “After spending time away from football to pursue my music career, I returned to England and wanted to give something back to my local community.

"By getting into coaching, I’m sharing my passion for the game and providing young Asians with a pathway into football.”

Supporting The FA’s ‘Football Needs’ campaign, Premier League and 2010 FA Cup Final referee Chris Foy is also excited by the unveiling of The FA’s first ever advertising creative focused on encouraging those who enjoy the game to get into refereeing.

“Having joined the police force at 21, refereeing provided me with a great opportunity to stay in the game that I love while at the same time pursuing my professional career," he said.

"It doesn’t matter if you’re refereeing at Old Trafford, Anfield or Stamford Bridge the same fundamentals and enjoyment of refereeing apply whatever the level.”

Locally in Surrey there is always a need for more volunteers to complete a variety of tasks from administration to promotion as well as coaching and refereeing.

Courses for new coaches and referees are provided locally and volunteering opportunities are advertised on our website www.surreyfa.com/GetIntoFootball/Coaching+and+Volunteering+Opportunities

Just some of the positions currently available include coaches wanted for new disability teams being set up in Elmbridge, Epsom and Croydon; League Referees Secretaries required for Surrey Primary Youth league and Kingston & District Saturday League, and Event Coordinators needed at Charter standard clubs AFC Brooklands and Badshot Lea FC.

Whatever your job role there is an opportunity for you to get involved as long as you have a passion for football. The vast majority of grass roots coaches and referees have full time jobs outside of football so come and join them to keep the game going.

Contact the Surrey County FA football development team on 01372 387092 now to offer your services.