The FA’s Customer Relations Unit was created in 2000 to build relationships and develop the flow of communication between The FA and the football public.
The FA acknowledges that football has a wider social responsibility; therefore, in addition to providing a point of contact with The FA, the Customer Relations Unit is also dedicated to supporting community-focused projects which align themselves with The FA’s Football For All campaign.
The FA’s Football For All campaign concerns itself with ensuring everyone has a chance to be involved in football regardless of background; that we have eliminated discrimination whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability; encouraging and increasing the involvement of groups at all levels of football by recognising that inequalities may exist and taking steps to address them.
The Power Soccer Summer Camp which was held in August, was one of the many projects that received the support of The FA throughout 2006.
The Camp, which actively encourages participation from its local ethnic community, kicked off in Hayes, Middlesex with over 200 children participating in various matches, skill sessions and competitions coached by qualified FA coaches from the local Asian community.
Glenn Lavery from the Customer Relations Unit attended a Fun Day at the Power Camp, with The FA Cup making a special appearance. Players and parents had photographs taken with The Cup and in doing so raised £300 for charity.
One participant won the opportunity to be an England Mascot and walked out with Stewart Downing at the Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra in September. Other prizes included tickets to the England v Andorra match and exclusive FA merchandise.
As a winner of The FA’s Charter Standard Holiday Course Best Practice Award, Power Soccer produces greater understanding between young players of different nationalities, race, colour and creed and ensures that they have access to top quality coaching.
“We are delighted that The Football Association has shown us their support; the feedback from both the children and community has been very positive,” said Nim Poonia, Power Soccer Company Director.
This project epitomised everything The FA believes can be achieved through football and we were delighted at the interest Power Soccer generated throughout Hayes.
