The Football Association of Wales is pleased to provide an update on Project Chwarae, the independently led review launched earlier this year to explore solutions to reduce weather-related postponements across grassroots football in Wales.
The opening phase of the project has seen excellent engagement from across the Welsh football family. An online survey attracted responses from players, coaches, referees, clubs, and league officials, offering a clear picture of current views on the principle of adjusting the grassroots football calendar. Feedback highlighted a wide range of benefits, challenges, and important considerations that will help shape the next stage of the review.
In addition to the survey, the Project Chwarae team has carried out a comprehensive programme of consultation. This has included meetings and discussions with FAW Area Associations, grassroots league representatives, Welsh local authorities, and several other national governing bodies of sport. To ensure the perspectives of those most directly involved in the game were captured, focus groups were also held with players, referees, and coaches.
This broad engagement reflects the FAW’s commitment to a data-driven and consultative approach, ensuring that any proposed solutions are shaped by the experiences and needs of the grassroots community.
The next step is to analyse the findings and develop a range of pilots across Wales to test possible approaches to gain further feedback and insight.
FAW Head of Grassroots Football, Ben Field, said: “We are encouraged by the positive and constructive response to the first phase of Project Chwarae and grateful to everyone who has shared their views so far. This input is invaluable as we work towards solutions that can tackle the disruption caused by adverse weather and ensure more matches are played throughout the season.
“Grassroots football is at the heart of communities across Wales, and it is vital that players, coaches, referees, and clubs can enjoy a reliable and rewarding experience. Our focus now is on carefully reviewing the findings from this first phase and developing practical, evidence-based proposals for consideration by the FAW later this year.”
By taking this measured and collaborative approach, the FAW aims to find sustainable solutions that protect and enhance the future of grassroots football in Wales.
Project Chwarae also aligns with the FAW’s wider Our Wales corporate strategy, the Enhancing Lives grassroots football strategy, and ongoing sustainability initiatives designed to help safeguard the game against the challenges posed by climate change.
