Steve Clark's (right) role encompasses organising The FA Cup draw for each round.
'Best job in the world'
By Dean Jones. Tuesday, 24 August 2004.
Getting up early on a Sunday morning to help put the nets up and sort out fixtures may not sound like everyone's idea of fun - but for Steve Clark it has led to what he describes as 'the best job in the world'.
Steve has enjoyed over 30 years of service on the administration side of things at The FA and has experienced more in the world of football than most of us could ever dream.
From his beginnings at alocal Division 8 Sunday side, Steve's involvementin football administration has grown stronger and stronger.
Before long he, along with some other volunteers, had helped their local club grow to five clubs -and soon they had set up a Saturday side as well.
Steve's devotion and commitment helped his side Netherne FC develop and they soon found themselves in the Combined Counties League - a very good standard of football.
And he looks back at his roots with fond memories. "From painting to organising fixtures and sorting out player registrations, I've done it all," says Steve.
"I have some wonderful memories but it took a lot of time, not just from me but a lot of us who put effort into building the side and I took a lot of fulfillment in doing so."
Steve's work led him to become an employee at The FA, a position he has now held for over 30 years and still enjoys as much as ever.
His role involves organising competitions at all levels, from FA Cup to FA Vase; from kick-off times to club finances.
So what exactly does he get out of it?
"This is the best job in the world," Steve says seriously. "I get to be involved with football every day of my life and I enjoy every moment of it, it's great.
"Of course over 30 years the job has changed a lot because of technology and everything, but it has made communication easier and I still love what I do."
Sounds good - but how does a normal member of the public go about getting involved in having a job which involves day-to-day involvement with football?
"I think football is crying out for people to get involved," adds Steve, "And I'd encourage everyone to get involved with their local club.
"There is so much that needs doing and it is the first step for someone to become recognised in the football community.
"The feeling of helping a club develop is absolutely marvellous - and once you're a valued member of the community who knows where you'll end up."
GET INVOLVED - YOUR GUIDE
The FA is responsible for the governance and development of football in England, and core to its work is the belief that everyone should have the chance to be involved in the national game.
In 2001, The FA launched a five-year Football Development Strategy to develop our national game, seeking to shape and develop innovative programmes to support and develop young people, teachers, coaches, leaders and parents.
The FA also recognises that sedentary lifestyles and obesity are a problem for this country, and is committed to working with the government and other partners to promote healthy lifestyles, and to use the power of football to achieve this wherever possible.
GET INVOLVED - Your guide on how to play your part