A new community football club in Surrey is calling for stronger wellbeing and mental health standards across youth clubs in the UK.
The Phoenixes U15s, formed under the Alexandra United FC in Epsom and Ewell, was founded in May and currently has 14 players.
Anjali Healy, who co-manages the club, said: “We urge the Football Association (FA) and local leagues to tighten guidance and oversight, eradicate poor practice and prioritise player welfare from grassroots to elite pathways.”
Kirk Ritchie, spokesperson for Surrey Football Association, said the FA’s Grassroots Code set out “expected behaviours” in the grassroots game, which were “enjoy the game, give respect, be inclusive, work together and play safe”.
Mrs Healy said some players had joined the club after “negative experiences elsewhere”.
“They deserve safe, supportive environments where development and enjoyment come first,” she said.
She said it was “vital” for young players to learn that good sportsmanship should be rewarded.
Mrs Healy claimed some players did not receive enough one-on-one mentorship at some clubs.
“Some of the our players have experienced managers yelling at them in aggressive language, and instilling a strong ‘winning at all cost’ mentality,” she added.
She said this had an “adverse effect” on the youngsters, which had “discouraged” them from speaking out.
“We encourage players to talk to us about their concerns,” she added.
“This includes what positions they want to play, trialling different formations and giving individual feedback on how they can improve in their skills.”
Mr Ritchie added: “When it comes to mental health support in youth football, we typically signpost enquiries to the following national and local organisations: Heads Together, Mind Works and Kooth.”
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