Background

Football in the Community was set up in 1987 by Micky Burns, a former Professional Player, who was greatly disturbed by the growing problems associated with Football.
His ambition was for people to watch matches, as in the past, with no thoughts to violence, which had become second nature by then.
The Scheme originated with six Clubs - Manchester United, Manchester City, Bury, Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End and Oldham Athletic but now encompasses all the Premier League plus Nationwide and several Non League Teams, making up over 90 Projects throughout England.

The Scheme's objectives were and still are-
To promote closer links between the local Club and the community by working with the community and offering the Club's facilities to the community.

The Community Scheme here at Rochdale AFC has been running since September 1987 with Keith Hicks as Football Development Officer. Keith Hicks is also a Co-Opted member of Rochdale Supporters Trust Board, and advises the Trust on various community projects.

The Schools Package is the main activity but as the years have passed so the scheme has developed with many groups now taking advantage of the activities undertaken.

At the present moment in time, there are six full time members of Staff.

Rochdale AFC Football in the Community objectives are:

• To encourage more children to play and watch football
• Form closer links between the Club and the local community
• Encourage support for Rochdale AFC
  

You can find all the latest Football in the Community news here