Hearts win 'major' UEFA prize as they rank amongst Europe's best through vital initiative
A former Jambo and Rangers star is the ambassador of the initiative
Hearts have won a ‘major’ prize at the UEFA grassroots awards, as European football’s governing body recognise the success of their ‘Play the Game’ initiative.
The Jambos beat Europe’s elite to the Silver Award for the community programme, which strives to bring elements of street football back into the grassroots game. ‘Play the Game’ has helped 3,000 players and 6,000 coaches with their development both in Scotland and overseas. Former Hearts and Rangers defender Alan McLaren is a current ambassador.
Since the programme was introduced in 2018, it has helped aspiring young players get involved with the game and improve their decision-making on the pitch, often through small-sided dynamic games. After winning the award, Hearts' Community & Football Development Department have been praised by the Scottish FA’ Head of Football in the Community Paul McNeill for their ‘outstanding achievement’.
Hearts recognised by UEFA for community involvement
He told the club’s website: “I’m delighted Heart of Midlothian FC have received the UEFA Silver Award for Best Professional Club, an outstanding achievement. Their Play the Game initiative is a fantastic example of how clubs can lead the way, closely aligning with the Scottish FA ‘Let Them Play’ campaign and creating positive, safe environments for young people to enjoy the game.
"We’re incredibly proud of Hearts and the impact they continue to make in their community. This recognition reflects the strength of partnership working across Scottish football, when we come together, we can make a real difference. A massive congratulations to everyone involved this is a proud moment for the club and for the wider game in Scotland.”
How did ‘Play the Game’ come about?
Hearts’ Head of Community, Alan White added: “Play the Game was created to inspire a positive culture shift within our grassroots game and to help us appreciate more what kids love about the game — something that can be difficult as adults, as we often forget how we saw the game at 5, 9 or 14 years old.
"We’ve focused on promoting the benefits of play and games-based practice, giving today’s kids the opportunity to enjoy the same freedom, creativity and love for the game that street football once provided. It was born out of a 2016 trip to Rwanda where we would see kids would playing for hours on tricky terrain wearing just sandals or bare feet but showing fantastic technical ability and agility.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to UEFA and the Scottish FA for recognising the programme, and to all Hearts and programme partner staff who have supported its development. A special thank you also goes to all the kids that have participated, the grassroots clubs, schools and coaches who have been part of this fantastic journey so far.”
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