Sarah Nickless, our Football Development Officer for Youth and Mini Soccer, has become Chair of the FA’s National Youth Council. Following the reformation of the FA, the Chair of the National Youth Council also takes a seat on the FA Council for the first time.

Sarah has progressed into the position of Chair following three successful terms representing the FA Youth Council across a number of key roles; most recently leading this year on developing a peer-led learning and development community across the network of County FA Youth Councils.

The FA Youth Council has a vision to inspire, empower and to provide a voice for all children and young people to develop change and provide a lasting legacy within football. With the key priority area being supporting County FA Youth Councils through developing and delivering the FA Leadership Academy, which supports the leadership capabilities of youth Council Chairs and senior officers.  This 12 month programme is a piece of work led by the FA Youth Council working towards the FA’s vision of uniting the game and inspiring the nation.

As part of her role, Sarah has become the youngest female appointed to the FA Council; representing not only the FA Youth Council, but every young person in the game.

Sarah’s passion for developing young people ad the game has been showcased through her work and enthusiasm to provide opportunities across Somerset. We’re thrilled that Sarah has been appointed as Chair of the FA Youth Council and can continue to make a difference not only in Somerset, but nationwide.

On her acceptance of the role, Sarah noted some of her ambitions for the FA Youth Council: “I’m incredibly excited by the opportunity to continue to represent the FA Youth Council and to keep developing pathways for youth and adult partnerships to flourish throughout the game. It’s imperative that we maintain and build on the momentum which has been created over the past seasons and to really highlight the importance of listening to and involving young people in the development of the game…

It’s a privilege to take a seat on the FA Council, this achievement is a testament to the progress and impact made by the FA Youth Council since its inception. I cannot wait to work alongside our 2017/18 team to continue and improve the work already started”.

The National FA Youth Council support our own Somerset FA Youth Council by increasing their impact on developing a voice for young people in Somerset. This season our Youth Council are looking at creating pathways and opportunities for young people to engage with and enjoy their football experience.

For more information and to track the progress of our Somerset FA Youth Council follow them on Twitter with the handle @SomersetFAYC and the National FA Youth Council at @TheFANYC