#GroundsWeek2024 is taking place this year between Monday 18th and Sunday 24th March, and we'd love for local grassroots football to join us in building momentum for the initiative and celebrating the work that grounds people undertake each and every day to ensure the pitches they serve are maintained to the highest level.

The Grounds Management Association (GMA)’s annual awareness campaign celebrates the incredible efforts that grounds volunteers and professionals undertake to make sport possible. Now in its fourth year, #GroundsWeek recognises the work of turf care volunteers and professionals in the UK, with a focus on inspiring new recruits to consider a career in the industry.

To help you mark the occasion, the GMA have put together a 'toolkit' of digital assets, including pre-made social media posts, channel headers and logos. Essex clubs and leagues can access these via this link. So far, the campaign has been covered on major news outlets including Sky Sports, BBC Sport, ITV News and Reuters.

Carrie Barfoot, Essex County FA Facilities & Investment Officer, commented: “Essex benefits from the knowledge and hard work of many dedicated ground staff, whose efforts make sure as many matches can take place as possible in the best conditions. Grounds Week is a great opportunity to recognise and thank them, and we’re seeing some great examples already!”

Find out more about #GroundsWeek2024 by following this link. To help you mark the occasion, the Grounds Management Association (GMA) have put together a 'toolkit' of digital assets, including pre-made social media posts, channel headers and logos. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on Twitter/X and the ‘EssexFootball’ page on Facebook.

Grassroots Football Awards: Grounds Team of the Year

What better way to celebrate the great work that your Grounds Teams do than by nominating them for the Grassroots Football Awards? The Essex County FA are looking for the people who make sure their ground - from pitch to facilities - is always ready for the game.

It’s time to put Essex’s grounds teams in the frame for a prestigious England Football Grassroots Award. The awards are here for you to say thanks to all the people who give their time to make football happen. Awesome volunteers give so much time, week in, week out, so click here to make your nomination.