So often the unsung heroes of grassroots football, anyone with a great coach at their club knows just what a difference they can make.

The kind of differences that go much further than just improving players’ skills, but also include creating an inclusive team atmosphere, allowing players to express their individuality and skills on the pitch and even getting the players to want to train and not just turn up for matches!

FA Learning and McDonald's recognise the important role of the coach and so for the second year we are running the ‘FA Learning Grassroots Coach of the Year’ in partnership with The FA’s Community Partner - McDonald's.

All we need you to do is click here and tell us why your coach is the best and why they should win ‘Grassroots Coach of the Year’.

The winning coach and the club will win a selection of great prizes including:

  • Sir Geoff Hurst MBE and Eric Harrison will visit your club and give a training session with your team.
  • Pitch-side presentation of the winning coach, at The 2006 FA Community Shield.
  • Two VIP tickets to The 2006 FA Community Shield
  • £1500 worth of McDonald's training equipment
  • Funding towards the coach taking the next level of FA coaching award

There will also be nine regional winners, all of whom will get the chance to show off their coaching skills with their team in front of Sir Geoff Hurst, Sir Trevor Brooking, Hope Powell OBE and Eric Harrison (former Manchester United Youth Team Coach) at an exclusive coaching day at Bisham Abbey where the National Winner will be chosen from the finalists.

In addition, there will be a Grassroots Coach of the Year winner at every County FA, all of whom will receive a plaque and two tickets to the 2006 Community Shield.

So to nominate your coach today just click here and tell us why your coach is the best!

Click here to enter your nomination.

Closing date for entries - 21 May 2006.