The Football Association of Wales has announced the launch of an independently led review – named Project Chwarae – to consider possible solutions to tackle the increasing number of weather-related postponements that disrupt grassroots matches across Wales, particularly during the winter months.
Grassroots football offers thousands of players the opportunity to enjoy the game, develop their skills, and stay active. However, adverse weather conditions from November to February have led to a growing number of cancelled fixtures impacting player enjoyment, club operations, and overall participation levels.
Recognising the challenge posed by climate change and its effect on the football calendar, the FAW is committed to finding sustainable solutions to ensure that more matches can be played throughout the season. To achieve this, the FAW is commissioning an independently led review that will engage with key stakeholders, analyse data, and consider potential alternative approaches to the structure of the grassroots football season.
A Data-Driven and Consultative Approach
Project Chwarae will take a measured, and evidence-based approach to finding sustainable solutions to ensure more matches can be played. The project will involve extensive research and consultation with Area Associations, grassroots clubs, leagues, coaches, players, other stakeholders such as national sporting governing bodies and local authorities.
The review will consider whether any potential changes or alternative approaches to the structure of the grassroots season. The project will also align with the FAW’s broader strategic objectives, including those outlined in the ‘Our Wales’ corporate strategy, the ‘Enhancing Lives’ grassroots football strategy, and sustainability initiatives aimed at protecting the future of football in Wales.
Pilot Programme and Implementation
Following the initial research, consultation and data analysis phase, the review will consider if there are potential workable and sustainable solutions to the problem. The FAW will evaluate these potential solutions and consider piloting format and/or league trials during the 2025/26 season to assess their effectiveness.
Key milestones in the Project Chwarae timeline include:
- April 2025 onwards – Research, stakeholder consultation and data analysis
- Late summer 2025 – Presentation of possible solutions for consideration by FAW, including format and/or league trial proposals
- Autumn 2025 onwards – Testing & monitoring of format and/or league trial proposals
- Summer 2026 – Final report & recommendations to FAW Board for consideration.
A Commitment to the Future of Welsh Football
FAW’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability underpins this review. The FAW aims to create a more reliable and rewarding grassroots football experience that ensures the sport continues to thrive in communities across Wales.
“This review is a crucial step in ensuring that grassroots football in Wales remains strong and accessible for all,” said Ben Field, the FAW’s Head of Grassroots Football . “We are committed to working collaboratively with clubs, leagues, and stakeholders to identify practical solutions that enhance participation and protect the game against the challenges posed by climate change.
“Ultimately, we want to see participants on the pitch enjoying the game rather than waiting for the rain to stop and pitches to dry out before being able to kick a ball.”
