Huddle aims to introduce girls aged between four and 11 to football in a fun, relaxed, sociable and friendly way to ensure they have a positive first experience of football. Joining the Huddle Programme is free of charge, and the FAW are recruiting new providers to join the programme.
Applications are open until 28th February 2025, and the FAW encourages all clubs not currently participating in the programme to apply. Click HERE to apply.
Huddle is used as a tool for clubs wanting to start their girl’s football journey, and those wanting to enhance their current offer. This has resulted in an astounding growth of over 100% in girls playing football between the ages of 4-11 across Wales since 2019.
Huddle is all about introducing new girls to football, making new friends, learning football skills through fun games and building confidence throughout the sessions.
With the support of the FAW Grassroots team, your club/organisation will receive full training and ongoing support to ensure your centre is a success, along with a benefits package of equipment and resources.
Natalie Pelders from Mumbles Rangers said the Huddle programme has had a positive impact on both their club and community:
“Huddle is our pathway for girls, most girls who joined the club in the last five years have started their football journey with the huddle. Each year about 70% of the girls who have taken part in our huddle programme will become members of Mumbles Rangers.
“For most girls, it’s the first experience they have with playing football, and in Huddle, they can try it out in a safe, fun, and friendly environment to make up their mind if they like it! And most girls do!”
Huddle was launched by the Football Association of Wales in 2019 with an aim to increase the opportunities for girls to try football at a younger age. Now in 2024, there are 74 Huddle providers across the country with over 1,000 regular participants playing football on a weekly basis at these centres.
Bethan Woolley National Women & Girls Participation Manager said: “We have seen a significant growth in girls’ football over the past five years, and Huddle has played a huge part in this. Huddle is tailored to support girls, parents and clubs to ensure the best environment for every girl across Wales to begin their football journey.”
To help determine if your club qualifies for the scheme, there is a Huddle criteria document HERE. You are also invited to contact the team at huddle@faw.cymru with any queries.
