BUCS are working with The Football Association and Mars to find University delivery partners to join an exciting new opportunity in adult football. FA Mars Just Play is a key part of The FA’s National Game Strategy, directing £200 million into grassroots football to support the growth of the game as well as raising standards. The FA and Sport England, with the support of Mars are working together to attract 150,000 new adults into football by September 2013 and they hope that upwards of 100 FA Mars Just Play Centres will help them achieve this.
New informal kick-about sessions for men and women are being launched and so far 13 Universities have taken the opportunity to be part of the next big thing in grassroots football. Developed by The FA and supported by Adult Football Partner Mars, FA Mars Just Play! is an easy and informal opportunity for adults to play football in an enjoyable environment. University Just Play Centres involved so far are:
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Bedfordshire
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Bolton
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Bournemouth
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Derby
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Gloucestershire
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Hull
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Hertfordshire
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Plymouth
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Roehampton
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Sheffield Hallam
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Southampton Solent
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UCLan
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Wolverhampton
Men and women can choose how and when they want to play by just turning up or signing up on the website to an FA Mars Just Play! Centre, where a co-ordinator will organise games chosen by the players. FA Mars Just Play! is designed for all adult footballers, regardless of experience, ability or fitness. It will help the novice, part-timer or lapsed player to gain experience, rediscover their touch, develop fitness and enjoy playing in a non competitive environment. The games at FA Mars Just Play! centres will be informal and fun, but those looking for a route back into affiliated football will be signposted to 5-a-side or 11-a-side competition.
The flexible format allows FA Mars Just Play! Centres to be adapted to suit the needs of the local population, so it should be flexible for universities and student needs. It can be run anywhere by a university, indoors or outside at a time that suits demand. Centres are run by FA Mars Just Play! Organisers who will facilitate the activities and give support to all participants.
On www.bucs.org.uk/football you can visit the Just Play website, download an application form to become a Centre or get the answers to all the questions you have about the initiative. If you have any questions or need support with your application please contact oliver.selfe@bucs.org.uk.
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