If you're in an amateur football team, you can claim a £750 grant from the FA to help with running costs - but only if you apply in the next few weeks.

Now in its second year, the FA's Stay In The Game scheme is open for applications now, and invites men's 11-a-side teams to put in for a grant to help with the running costs of their club.

The idea is to keep more men playing the game rather than slipping into more casual formats like 5-a-side. 

Paul Simpson, England Under-20s Head Coach, said: “It’s no secret that we are seeing adult male players move from regular 11-a-side football into other more casual formats of the game.

“One of the main reasons is clubs lacking money for things like match fees, facilities hire, new kit and equipment, which can lead to their teams folding.

“Last year’s roll-out of the scheme saw some really positive strides and I hope we’ll see men’s 11-a-side teams across the country receive a helping hand.” 

This year, the grants will once again be available to adult male teams in the under-18 to Under-21 category, open-age adult sides and veterans’ teams.

Grassroots clubs that meet the following criteria will be eligible to apply:

  • Clubs that operate with two or more adult male teams – Under-18s, Under-19s, Under-21s, Under-23s, open age and vets.
  • Clubs that hold the FA’s Charter Standard Award (Adult, Youth, Development or Community).
  • Adult clubs that commit to becoming FA Adult Charter Standard within season 2019/20.
  • Clubs that have the support of their County Football Association.

The application window for Stay in the Game is now open and closes at 5pm on Thursday June 6 2019. Clubs seeking more information on the programme should either contact their local County FA or visit the Football Foundation website.