Partnerships
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Article summary
Through innovative partnerships, we are finding ways to develop more players across Europe.
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EA SPORTS and FC FUTURES
Through our innovative partnership with EA SPORTS and FC FUTURES, coaches, teachers, parents and players can access a free online library of coaching practices.
The library offers guidance and tips to help grassroots players improve their fundamental skills of passing, dribbling, 1v1 defending and finishing.
Our own team of grassroots experts have developed the content with the aim of empowering coaches and players, and bridging the gap between virtual and real-world football.
The programme is backed by a number of legendary football figures including: Ian Wright, Emma Hayes, Zinédine Zidane, Laura Georges, Fernando Morientes, Zico, Marta, Gianfranco Zola, Bixente Lizarazu, Patrizia Panico and Simone Laudehr.
"FC Futures is focused on developing community-level football worldwide. That’s why it's such an honour to have UEFA’s support and backing. We share the belief that integrating real-world football with the digital gaming experience offers the chance to captivate players, old and young, all over the world. The lines between virtual and physical football are blurring; it’s a crucial step to inspiring the next generation of football lovers across the globe."
"UEFA is delighted to endorse EA SPORTS’ innovative venture, seamlessly merging virtual and real-world football experiences. This initiative offers youngsters a multi-dimensional engagement with the sport and provides an inclusive platform for players and coaches of all levels."
Partnership news
iCoachKids: online learning tool for grassroots coaches
Through our partnership with iCoachKids, a number of e-learning courses have been launched offering a comprehensive online coach education resource.
The three online courses cover:
- developing effective environments for children in sport
- child and youth-centred coaching
- coaching children: planning, doing and reviewing
By completing the courses outlined above coaches will learn more about:
- engaging children
- creating an effective and positive environment
- meeting children’s needs
- delivering developmentally appropriate and progressive sessions
The free courses, which are open to everyone, support the new UEFA C diploma and include a mix of online and practical work where the coach engages in real-life tasks related to the content covered in the courses.
Lidl
Lidl supports grassroots football and schools programmes across Europe, using the game to promote healthier, more active lifestyles for children.
At the heart of the partnership is UEFA Football in Schools, helping children to be active, learn new skills and enjoy an early introduction to the game in safe, inclusive environments, while strengthening links between schools, clubs and communities.
The partnership connects football with everyday wellbeing, promoting physical activity, balanced nutrition and healthy habits from an early age.
Lidl also help us support teachers and coaches through learning resources, and contribute to initiatives such as the UEFA Grassroots Awards and Grassroots Week, recognising impact across Europe.
Together, we aim to grow the grassroots game and ensure every child has the opportunity to play and enjoy football.