Just Play

Become an accredited Just Play centre

Venues and clubs across Greater Manchester can now apply to become part of the ‘Just Play!’ initiative.

Venues and clubs across Greater Manchester can now apply to become part of the ‘Just Play!’ initiative by becoming an accredited FA Mars Just Play centre.

The programme gives casual footballers, aged 16+, the chance to ‘just play’ for an hour per week, meaning that recreational players can simply turn up to a venue and play football; the ideal answer for those who cannot commit to a full season. 

We’re calling upon clubs, venues and community centres across Manchester to support the programme and host Just Play! sessions,  ensuring that anyone who wants to get involved in football has an opportunity to do so, regardless of ability and other commitments.

Just Play sessions can run for any of the following groups:

Male/Female/Mixed

Football/Futsal/Walking Football

In return, those delivering the just play programme receive the following:

Equipment pack - 5 Nike Footballs, a set of branded bibs, cones and a marketing banner, giving you all you need for a successful session.

Digital marketing library - access to a range of digital marketing assets including A4 & A3 Posters, A5 Leaflets, Social, Digital and Email Signatures to help promote your new centre.

Just Play organiser kit - Nike branded kit including t-shirt, shorts, pants and rain jacket to ensure you look the part, whatever the weather!

Just Play organiser support - Guidance and support provided to all session leads to help maximise delivery.

FA events platform - A new digital platform upon which you simply and easily organise your kickabouts, leaving more time for the more fun stuff, like playing football.

National promotion - The FA & Mars will help promote the programme nationally helping to attract potential new participants to your kickabouts.

Support from Manchester FA - additional support to make your centre a success. We recommend getting in touch with us before making your application.

If you would like more information on how to get involved and set up as a Just Play! centre, please check the following requirements and get in touch with Alex West, alex.west@manchesterfa.com or 0161 225 1966.

Each session should be supervised by a Just Play organiser of 18 years or over with a current Level One Certificate in Coaching Football & FA Emergency Aid Certificate.

Completion of a full risk assessment before the first session takes place that is regularly updated. We will provide you with a template and support for how to complete.

Delivery for a minimum of 32 weeks across the year.

Provision of adequately stocked first aid kit at all sessions.

Submission of attendance records via the Events Platform in a timely manner

Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place (including insurance, Health & Safety and Equal Opportunities policies)