How Albania is making football accessible for everyone

As part of the FSHF's mission to strengthen the game and promote its values to the people of Albania, the association is committed to developing grassroots football, and providing welcoming, inspirational and accessible opportunities for the whole population to access the sport.

"Football is not just a sport in Albania – it is a social force that unites people and gives opportunities to all, regardless of age, gender, or ability," says FSHF president Armand Duka. "Through our grassroots programmes, we want every child in Albania to feel that football is their game.

"Our strategy is clear: build strong foundations at the grassroots, provide modern infrastructure, and create pathways so that every young player has the chance to dream of one day wearing the national team shirt. That is how we will secure a brighter future for Albanian football."

This year, the association successfully hit its strategic target of registering 23,000 grassroots players throughout the country, and continues to create new opportunities thanks to a range of initiatives, which we explore below.

Building a football workforce

At the heart of the FSHF's success lies a dynamic and growing football workforce. Through its regional associations, the FSHF has built a robust structure that supports football development across the entire country. With a focus on coach education, talent identification, and player pathways, Albania has created a unique framework that empowers local clubs and communities.

Grassroots coaching courses – the UEFA C Diploma – are now accessible in every region, ensuring that football education is no longer a privilege but a right for parents, volunteers, teachers and anybody starting out on their coaching journey. This expansion has enabled clubs to boost participation and elevate their player development programmes.

International collaboration has also played a key role – Albanian clubs and coaches have learned from some of Europe’s finest, gaining insights into academy structures, coaching philosophies, and grassroots engagement.

Empowering clubs and communities

FSHF’s commitment to supporting the growth of local clubs and leagues has been a key part of its Football for the Nation strategy.

Leagues for under-7 and under-9 players have flourished thanks to financial assistance from the national association for covering essential costs –match officials, first-aid equipment and pitch rentals, while every registered club receives free footballs for each of its teams, from youth squads to senior sides.

One standout initiative, Uniforma Ime, has provided every child and youth player with a full playing kit completely free of charge. This project has had a profound social and economic impact, making football more accessible and inclusive than ever before.

Infrastructure has also seen a major boost. From pitch renovations to the ambitious 100 Pitches Project, where FSHF covers 50% of the investment, clubs now have more spaces to play, train and develop their talent.

Particular focus has also been given to growing the number of girls and women playing football, with financial incentives helping clubs attract more female players and build sustainable development programmes.

To promote further gender equality, UEFA C- and B-level coaching courses are offered free of charge to women, creating a new generation of qualified female coaches ready to lead the game forward.

Special attention has gone towards ensuring more girls and women can play footballUEFA via Getty Images

Creating clear pathways to the top

FSHF has built a seamless pathway from grassroots football to Albania's senior national teams.

Programmes like Football in Schools and UEFA Playmakers introduce the game to children who might otherwise never have the chance to play. These initiatives not only spark a love for the game but also help recruit new staff and coaches through accessible regional courses.

Supported by UEFA and FIFA, Albania’s player development projects ensure that homegrown talent – both boys and girls – can rise through the ranks.

A pyramid system guides players from grassroots to the Albanian Elite Youth Academy and ultimately to the national youth teams. Regional scouting and training by experienced coaches ensure that talent is nurtured and elevated, strengthening both clubs and national squads.

Inclusivity and football for everyone

Last year, the FSHF launched Albania’s first official disability football competition. Teams from across the country joined the initiative, marking a powerful step toward making football truly inclusive.

This project has opened doors for players with disabilities to experience the joy and magic of the beautiful game – proving that football really is for everyone!