The FA National Youth Council (FANYC) is united by one vision: to ensure that every young person across the country has access to meaningful, inclusive opportunities to grow, lead, and leave a lasting impact on the football community.
Recently, we kicked off our new season with our very first FANYC meeting. From the moment I stepped into that room, I knew I was part of something special. The environment was immediately one of support, trust, and genuine warmth. I was welcomed with open arms and encouraged to be completely, unapologetically myself. It quickly became clear: this is a safe space where every voice is not only heard but celebrated—and where we’re empowered to drive real change.
The first day was all about connection. We started with icebreakers and shared mood boards that represented our personal journeys and our hopes for the year ahead. It was incredible to see everyone establish and talk about where they’ve come from and where they’re going. These conversations laid the foundation for something deeper than teamwork, they built mutual respect and understanding.
We also shared meals together, continuing our conversations outside the meeting room. Over dinner, we discovered how much we had in common, not just our passion for youth leadership in football, but in the values we hold and the dreams we share. It was one of those bonding moments I’ll carry with me for a long time.
The second day came around fast, and it was packed with creativity and collaboration. We filmed video content and created posts for social media, which was not only fun but also a great way to build team spirit. It reminded me how much can be achieved when creative minds come together for a shared cause.
Later, we had a meeting where we explored our personal and collective values, and the expectations we set for ourselves as leaders. This was a standout moment for me. Hearing others articulate values that mirrored my own reinforced that we are truly united in purpose—committed to representing youth voices across the nation with authenticity, passion, and integrity.
To top off an incredible day, we headed to Box Park for an evening of virtual reality games—it was pure fun and full of laughter. Those shared memories away from the meeting table made our connections even stronger.
Our final day was focused and deeply impactful. We participated in workshops tailored to our roles, including an incredibly valuable session on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). That discussion struck a chord with me. As a football coach, it helped me reflect on how I can better support the diverse needs of my players and create a more inclusive environment for every young person I work with.
If you’re considering applying to the FA National Youth Council next season do it. Without hesitation. This experience has already given me friendships I know will last, a platform to share my voice, and the confidence to lead authentically. It's a space where passion meets purpose, and where youth leaders are equipped and empowered to make a real difference. Being part of the FANYC means being part of something bigger than yourself, something that’s shaping the future of football for the better.
