The FA in their first of the series Extra Time National League System lens, chose Marine FC. The YouTube video showed how Marine had expanded as a club particularly in the community. The Chair sited good financial management and planning and spend what you can afford. With great community activities and of course an FA Cup tie against Spurs, it has encouraged more companies to sponsor and more expansion of the number of fans and volunteers.
Facilities investment is for the community and the board room is transformed into a class room and is also rented out as an office. People want to engage with the Club when coaching is good quality and there is a great atmosphere at activities. It is also important to recognise and reward the work of volunteers.
For Marine in the Community a registered charity which started in 2019 COVID became an opportunity delivering 7,000 free meals, holding digital training sessions and numerous Zoom classes. After COVID the community café has grown from 20 participants to over 100.
Graeme Gardener Head of Community said if you start like they did with a blank piece of paper firstly you need passion for the Club and the community and The FA Club programme has really helped them.
Watch the full episode here. http://youtu.be/DHS9m5CVf8I
