London FA are proud to announce that the winner of the Hub London League of the Year for the 2024 Grassroots Heroes Awards is London County Saturday Youth Football League!

London County Saturday Youth Football League is one of the biggest Saturday youth football leagues in London, catering to over 50 clubs and close to 300 teams. The committee has worked tirelessly over the past couple of years to adapt the league to become more approachable and transparent on how they operate. This has led to a huge community focus with the main goals being to support local grassroots projects through funding pots such as their Community Fund (up to £400 to clubs who are directly benefitting the community) and their new Referee Fund which offers 50% off course fees to new referees and ensures at least 15 games within 12 months. The LCSYFL also worked closely with London FA to distribute £5000 between 10 clubs to support local projects.

Alongside administering the league and ensuring that the teams are getting regular fixtures in a safe and exciting environment, their community approach has allowed them to support local projects including supporting over 30 children from low-income families to stay in the game, supporting clubs to start up girls’ football provision, and investing in new grounds to ensure a safe environment through respect barriers and flags. The league also provides boots, shin pads and equipment to players in need. LCSYFL have also taken on a large number of new young referees aged 14-18, offering extra training, support, and assigning them to appropriate games to increase confidence. This support is continued through online mentorship and further development opportunities.

Through the leagues hard work, clubs have felt that they have become more approachable and have given focus to supporting and giving back to the community. LCSYFL have now looked to work with local government bodies and charities to support future projects they have in the pipeline such as a Fair Play award, a Boot Swap Programme and a Work Experience programme for 14–16-year-olds to gain experience in a variety of areas to develop transferable skills. 

Congratulations to London County Saturday Youth Football League!