World Cup buzz could inspire thousands in the South East to volunteer, research finds
Football fever could deliver six million volunteers for grassroots football
Younger generations expected to lead volunteer boom
Find 100s of local football and sports volunteering opportunities on GoVo
The World Cup could deliver a big volunteering boost for grassroots football in the South East, a new survey finds.
The research from Royal Voluntary Service and GoVo, estimates one in 10 (11%) British adults are considering volunteering their time to support grassroots football. That’s equivalent to around six million people.
In the South East, 9% of people say they would consider volunteering their time to support football in their community, as thousands look for ways to support the game beyond simply spectating.
The findings also suggest it could be the younger generations that lead the charge. Over one in five (21%) 18-34s would consider volunteering to support football in their community.
From coaching positions and helping out at inclusive football sessions to groundskeeping and community club support, volunteers plays a vital role in grassroots and community football. Fans now have the opportunity to take their love of the game beyond the sofa by connecting with football volunteering roles through GoVo.
Phil Wood, Chair of Operations at Epsom and Ewell Colts FC, a grassroots football club said: “People see the players on a weekend morning – but what is often not seen are the army of volunteers doing everything from seeding pitches, organising venues and arranging all the fixtures on a weekly basis. There are so many roles that keep a club running - without volunteers, grassroots football simply wouldn’t exist.”
Dave Stott, Director of Volunteering at Royal Voluntary Service and Everton season ticket holder, said: “Most football fans have spent years shouting at managers from the sofa convinced they could do a better job – but grassroots football is where people can actually get involved and make a difference. Whether it’s helping at a local session, supporting a club behind the scenes or encouraging the next generation of players, volunteering is a way for fans to share their love of football in a completely different way.”
GoVo has a host of volunteering opportunities for football fans to tackle including:
Offering an assist and supporting players at inclusive football sessions
Becoming a grassroots gaffer as a volunteer Head Coach with a local team
Getting stuck in helping local clubs run training sessions
Step in like a super sub and support ad-hoc community football events and tournaments
Becoming a backroom hero prepping pitches and keeping clubs match ready
Practicing punditry and creating social media content, matchday updates and digital coverage for teams and foundations.
Made possible thanks to the support of players of Postcode Lottery, GoVo connects people with bite-sized volunteering opportunities that fit easily into everyday life. Those inspired to get involved can browse football or sport-related volunteering opportunities in their area at GoVo.org.