The plan of the Brandon football club is to address many fundamental issues with football within this country and region whilst also addressing the wider social impact of such a community.

Problems

• Nothing to do in the evenings?
• Problems integrating with others?
• Nothing to look forward to?
• Nothing to keep you motivated?

Football

Football is very elitist in this country. Players who are not good enough are not given the opportunity or encouraged to play, and those who are weak sit on the bench each week, rather than playing.

There is a massive drop out rate in football within this country, especially in the under 13-16 age groups. This is down to them not enjoying the experience, mainly due to the high pressure and competitiveness imposed by managers, parents and other players.

There is no natural progression into adult football. Many people drop out at 16 because their only option beyond that is to join a group of strangers in pub team.

There is a massive gap between professional and amateur clubs and few links or co-operation.

There is a win at all costs mentality at youth level. This puts massive pressures on players. Parents, managers and players of opposing teams are very antagonistic. The enjoyment is lost as a result and there is little focus on player development.

There is little social side to football. Once the game is over people go home. There is no socialising afterwards or opportunities for sharing other activities together.

There are massive differences in ability within a team. The best players become frustrated and selfish as a result. The worst players have little playing time and so lose interest and give up.