The FA and Vauxhall have come together to create a new initiative aimed at tackling the drop out from football of teenagers in the 14-17 age group.

According to extensive study by HPI, commissioned by The FA and England Team Sponsor and FA Youth Partner Vauxhall, the main reasons for the decline in participation in the 14-17 age group is due to a realisation that they are not going to play professional football, club football becoming more competitive, the lure of other pursuits and external pressures including school work, travel arrangements and part-time jobs.

The FA and Vauxhall aim to tackle these issues head on by offering support in 3 key areas:

 Football Mash Up

Football Mash Up is a dedicated programme aimed at 14 to 17 year old boys and girls who have either dropped out of football or are on the verge of doing so. Dedicated after-school sessions will be delivered by FA Vauxhall Youth Football Officers typically between 4 – 6pm in a high quality football environment (5-a-side centres). The FA coach will facilitate a fun and social session where the young people will play a range of 5-a-side games, with the focus on enjoyment rather than it being excessively competitive.

Vauxhall Football Champions

Vauxhall Football Champions are specially selected Vauxhall retailers with a passion for grassroots football. These selected Football Champions will work with The FA, through the Community Kit Programme, to identify grassroots and community clubs in need of support. The initiative allows retailers to support local affiliated youth football club(s) with the provision of playing kit.

Charter Standard Club Mentoring Programme

The FA Vauxhall Youth Officers will be showcasing the ideals of the Youth Development Review and Football Mash Up in Charter Standard Clubs to help clubs benefit from their expertise.