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Girls enjoying a GCGL football match

Information for families

Parent & Carer Hub

Helping your child find a team, understand grassroots football and enjoy a safe, positive GCGL experience.

Welcome to GCGL

A place to learn, compete and belong

Established in 2000, GCGL now supports 2,005 registered Players across Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, with football from U7 through to U16.

Whether your child is taking their first steps or looking for meaningful competition, our member clubs provide opportunities to develop skills, confidence and friendships.

GCGL Players together on matchday

Getting started

How to join

1

Find a club or team

Use the Club Map, Club Directory or current recruitment listings to find suitable opportunities.

2

Contact the club

Ask about spaces, age group, training, matches, costs and what your child can expect.

3

Complete registration

The club will explain its membership process and submit the Player’s FA registration.

4

Start playing

Once registration is approved, the Team Manager will provide training and fixture information.

Football for every stage

What GCGL provides

U7–U11 Development

Age-appropriate, small-sided football focused on learning, enjoyment and participation.

U12–U16 Competitive

Structured divisions designed to provide meaningful and appropriate competition.

Cups, Festivals & Tournaments

Additional opportunities and memorable football experiences throughout the season.

What parents should expect

Clear communication from your club

  • Training, match, travel and availability arrangements vary by Team
  • Membership, kit and facility costs vary by club
  • Most fixtures are on Sundays, but other dates may be used
  • Selection and playing time are managed by each club
  • Your child must be registered and approved before playing

Parent matchday guide

Positive support from the touchline

  • Confirm the venue, kick-off and arrival time
  • Bring shin pads and suitable footwear
  • Support every Player positively
  • Remain in the designated spectator area
  • Let the coaches coach and the officials officiate
  • Raise concerns through the correct route after the match
Read the Code of Conduct
Young GCGL Players developing confidence through football

Supporting your child

Make the journey theirs

Focus on enjoyment, effort and improvement. Encourage independence, avoid coaching from the touchline and give your child space immediately after the game.

If something is worrying you, speak privately with the Team Manager at an appropriate time rather than during or immediately after a fixture.

Safeguarding and concerns

Your child’s safety matters

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. Otherwise contact your Club Welfare Officer first, or use the League and national safeguarding routes where appropriate.

Concerns will be handled sensitively and information will only be shared with those who need it to protect a child or respond appropriately.

The FA Safeguarding Team
0800 169 1863
NSPCC Helpline
0808 800 5000 · Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm
Childline
0800 1111

Frequently asked questions

Joining and registration

Costs and equipment

Training and matches

Welfare and support