By Daniel Cecura

Scottish Grassroots is facing challenges in hiring pitches and getting to access to football. This UWS-report looks at the reasons and possible solutions to this issue. Reporter Daniel Cecura talks to experts and football fans from the Ayrshire region in this topic.

The high prices for basic needs have affected many aspects of our society, including the ability for young people to play football. In the past two years, due to the pandemic and increased living costs, over 2,600 local football clubs have had to close, as revealed by the “Price to Play Report.”

Miguel McIntosh played professional football at youth level for Marbella in Spain and currently works for Ayr United’s youth academy. During his time in Spain, he experienced that access to football there is very easy and often simply free. Access to the sport should also be available to everyone in Scotland, as football is not only played in clubs, but also among friends.

UWS student Samuel Ukah, who has launched a football initiative, confirms that playing football is also a social pillar.

Ayr United player and future coach Aiden McGeady has a clear opinion on access to football and only sees it as an attitude problem.

There are many football fans in Ayr. UWS News had the opportunity to ask some football fans in Ayr. Many say that grassroots reflects a sense of togetherness and emphasises locality. But again, the expensive access to good football grounds was mentioned by one family father.

But what can be done to solve problems? Miguel McIntosh addresses the issue of sustainability in particular and the fact that clubs can also donate and pass on more. He has a tip for all those who want to realise their dream of playing professional football:

A good example of something happening for the future in the Grassroots in Ayrshire is the award to Ayrshire College student Ryley Gallagher.