A-League players launch FFA 'grassroots' intiative

Australia's Hyundai A-League players are helping to "kick-start" the grassroots Telstra Football Anytime program. The nation-wide scheme commenced in Brisbane today with Queensland Roar players Chad Gibson, Massimo Murdocca and Remo Buess putting enthusiastic youngsters through their paces. Next month the scheme will commence in South Australia with players from A-League premiers Adelaide United at the sessions.

The Football Federation Australia program is an ideal introduction to football for 6-12 year old girls and boys as it is 'game-centred' and encourages children to play the game anywhere, anytime and with anyone! Its focus is on small-sided games and age appropriate activities with a particular emphasis on enjoyment.

For a cost of just A$66, children participate in six session program coordinated by FAA-accredited coaches who are specifically trained and briefed and receive a kit of equipment (a Nike Total 90 all surface football; a Nike Brasilia equipment bag; markers to use as goals and to mark out a field; and a drink bottle) that enables them to participate beyond the formal conclusion of the program.

The program also encourages parents to become actively involved in the delivery of the sessions and support their children as they experience the fun and excitement of playing football. Similarly, local clubs are also encouraged to become involved with their Community or School Telstra Football Anytime program to ensure that those parents and children who want to join local club football are able to do so.