"Pollok United has been recognized for transforming three disused sporting facilities in Glasgow, including the 21-acre Nethercraigs, which now serves 550 regular players and offers health and well-being activities."
"Club manager Andy Elliot emphasized the importance of the facility, stating, 'It saved a critical facility in the south-west of Glasgow. The facility is absolutely in the heart of the community and we needed to open it up.'"
"Scottish FA head of community football Paul McNeill noted, 'We want our community clubs to anchor themselves within the community and provide other services, not just football. Football is the key, but we also talk about the 'power of football' to involve all members of the community in different ways.'"
Pollok United has been named the best grassroots football club in Europe for 2025-26 due to its significant contributions to local communities. The club transformed three disused sporting facilities, including the 21-acre Nethercraigs, providing access to football and health activities for 550 regular players. After the Covid pandemic, Pollok United collaborated with local authorities to reopen the facility, which now serves around 10,000 users monthly. The club promotes inclusivity, working with diverse groups, including schoolchildren and refugees, and offers various community services beyond football.
Read at www.bbc.com
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