SGP Final

"THERE IS THAT HOPE AND CHANCE TO PLAY AT ST. GEORGE'S PARK THAT ENTICES PEOPLE TO JOIN"

@Sam_Ward00
Hear from the Business League Chairman and our Chief Executive after a successful 2019 campaign.

Following a successful 2019 Business League, 2020 promises to be one of the best yet for Birmingham County FA.

Ahead of 2019, several changes were made to the Business League to make it a more inclusive and enjoyable competition for businesses across the region.

Chief Executive Kevin Shoemake believes that these changes have increased opportunities for businesses who are looking to participate, especially for those within their workforce.

He said: “We asked The FA if they would sanction a mixed-adult League as a ‘pilot’ which they agreed. We have had a lot of interest from more businesses this season and for groups of employees wanting to play together in a less ‘win at all cost’ format.  The Birmingham County FA team has often included a large percentage of female outfield players, and everyone has enjoyed the benefits of playing together.”

2019 saw greater participation from across the region, stretching from Warwickshire to Birmingham, making the league more competitive for teams involved.

Shoemake said: “It has gone from half a dozen teams to over 20 now in different divisions. It helps to generate more interest generally within the business community, whilst promoting health and wellbeing and widening businesses networks.

“We have piloted a mixed-adult team which is one of the only ones in the country. Next season, we would like more mixed teams.”

For the second year running, the Business League Final was held at the main coaching hub of English Football, St. George’s Park.

Chairman of the Business League, Joe Robinson believes the venue of the final makes it all worthwhile for the teams that make it.

He said: “There is that hope and chance to play at St. George’s Park that entices people to join. It is a great reward for the teams that make it there and their families and colleagues.”

Shoemake echoed the words from the Chairman: “They can showcase their skills and their companies at the £105m state-of-the-art facilities, home to the 28 England teams.”

What is going to be different for the 2020 Business League campaign?

Birmingham County FA are looking at creating a mixed division as part of the offer and sector-specific divisions. We are also about to launch a Higher and Further Education Division for Schools, Colleges and University staff.

A Friendly Division will also be introduced where organisations who want to play every now and then can do so without having to fulfil a set number of fixtures.

Click here to complete our expression of interest form to get involved in the 2020 Business League.

For more information, please email: Joe.Robinson@BirminghamFA.com