The 2025/26 grassroots football season begins with renewed energy, and a national spotlight.
The FA's latest campaign celebrates what we all know to be true: grassroots football is more than a feeder system for future stars. It is the lifeblood of communities across England. Featuring Lionesses star Jordan Nobbs, creator PK Humble, and real local clubs including Dulwich Village FC - home of tactico's own Head Coach, Greg - the film is a love letter to the people and places that give football its beating heart.
The Power of Volunteers
Grassroots football doesn't survive on funding or facilities alone - it survives on people. Over one million volunteers turn up every week across the UK:
The FA campaign shines a light on these everyday champions, because they are the true heartbeat of the game. They create the belonging, the rituals, and the safe spaces where football thrives.
The Barriers and the Belonging
Football at this level isn't without its struggles. Facilities often lag behind demand. Teams battle for pitch allocations, or make do without referees. Clubs wade through administration, with stretched resources.
But those barriers are also what forge the spirit of grassroots. They are reminders that football here is built on determination, community, and a belief that the game belongs to everyone.
It's what it's all about: creating spaces where anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can fall in love with football and feel part of a team.
The Scale of Grassroots Football
The numbers tell their own story:
And yet, the true value can't be measured in billions. It's in the friendships forged, the lessons learned, the confidence built, and the belonging created.
Football for Everyone
Grassroots football reflects the diversity of Britain. In urban areas, nearly half of all players come from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Female participation has surged by 54% in the past five years, fuelled by the unstoppable Lionesses and a growing network of inclusive clubs.
Every weekend, children from every background step onto pitches that might be worn, muddy, or floodlit - but the feeling is the same: they are part of something bigger!
Inspiring the Next Generation
Almost every professional player begins at grassroots level. That first goal, that first team huddle, that first coach who believed it (or didn't), all starts here.
The FA's campaign bridges the gap between elite and everyday. Watching Jordan Nobbs teach the "Russo backheel" isn't just entertainment - it's a reminder that the pathway from playground to Premier League is real, and that every child's journey begins in a local club.
Why This Matters to tactico
At tactico, we're proud to see Dulwich Village FC and our Head Coach Greg featured in the campaign film. It's a reflection of what we live every week: muddy boots, packed sidelines, volunteers giving their time, and players giving their all.
We believe grassroots deserves tools that match its passion. Less admin, more coaching. Smarter systems that free volunteers to focus on players, community, and the magic of the game.
Because grassroots football isn't just where football starts... it's where football lives!
The magic of grassroots football comes from the people who are part of it - the volunteers, groundskeepers, coaches, and players.
👉 See the campaign film and find out more about The FA's grassroots season launch here.