As part of UEFA Grassroots Week, I was delighted to visit Sauchie Juniors Academy and see first-hand the incredible work being done both on and off the pitch.

I was struck by just how much the club offers – it truly is far more than football. Pupils from Fishcross and Craigbank primary schools were being put through their paces by coaches, while the adult walking football group were showcasing their skills. And that’s just a snapshot of the opportunities on offer for people of all ages.

Beyond the pitch, Sauchie Juniors are leading the way with environmental commitments like their boot recycling scheme, while also running hugely popular Easter, Summer and October holiday camps. Their day-to-day engagement with local schools is outstanding – and with free entry for all under-16s at senior home games, they’re opening up football to the whole community.

A huge thanks to Roy from the club, Alan and Gary from the SFA, and Joe from Active Schools for taking the time to meet me. It was fantastic to see so many organisations working together for the benefit of our community.

Sauchie Juniors is a true community hub in a beautiful setting – and I look forward to seeing their exciting plans develop, as well as getting along to a game soon.