Lidl have unveiled details of their partnership with The Football Association as Lead Partner for The FA Skills programme.
The grocery retailer, which is also Official Supermarket of the England Team, has unveiled a comprehensive programme activity that will help build on the success of FA Skills to date.
The flagship Government-backed coaching initiative delivers football to 5-11-year-olds of all abilities. A dedicated team of FA coaches provide fun and friendly sessions both in school and social environments. Since its launch in 2007, the programme has provided eight million opportunities to play football in and out of school time.
Youngsters enjoy an FA Skills session at Wembley following the launch of Lidl's partnership
And through its extensive network of stores nationwide, Lidl will add further impetus to the programme.
From April, the retailer will launch a series of Lidl Family Days which, with FA Skills will offer fun, informal, interactive coaching taster sessions nationwide in the build-up to the UEFA European Championships in France this summer.
"This is a fantastic initiative that allows Lidl to get involved in grassroots football, giving boys and girls the opportunity to immerse themselves in the game," said Lidl UK's Purchasing Director Ryan McDonnell.
"Through the broad network of almost 500 stores across England we have access to so many communities and this partnership will allow us to build on that and give something back."
Sir Trevor Brooking, who was one of the driving forces behind the introduction of the programme in 2007 during his time as Director of Football Development at The FA, also welcomed the partnership during a Skills session at the Powerleague under the shadow of Wembley Stadium where he was joined by former England and Southampton star Matt Le Tissier.
"FA Skills has gone from strength to strength – to have arrived at eight million places is immense and with Lidl now supporting the programme, there is the potential to push on even more," said the former West Ham United and England legend.
"FA Skills encourages children to be more active and develop their football skills but also helps them develop their life and social skills – helping to develop qualities that they can also draw on back in the classroom - confidence, decision making and team building."
Martin Glenn, CEO of The FA added: "Lidl joined us at an exciting time as we focus our efforts on supporting the grassroots movement through better facilities and coaching.
"Their investment supports us in providing professional coaching in a fun, safe and progressive environment, increasing participation among home grown talent at this exciting time for English football."
