Grassroots football clubs across England paused this weekend to mark Remembrance Sunday, paying tribute to those who lost their lives in conflict.
Before kick-off, teams gathered in silence. Parents stood pitch-side. Referees held the centre circle. Across the country, football briefly stopped.
At the Heart of the Community
At Bollington United, a community club where hundreds of young people play each week, players, coaches and families came together to observe a moment of silence before matches began.
Every fixture at the club marked the occasion, with either a minute’s silence or applause to show respect.
Centre Circle visited Bollington United to capture how grassroots football communities continue to honour remembrance each year.
A National Moment at Local Level
Similar scenes played out across parks, playing fields and club grounds nationwide. From mini-soccer matches to adult league games, grassroots football once again reflected the communities it represents.
The game has long played a role in keeping remembrance traditions alive. It brings people together, and on days like this, that sense of unity is clear.
Grassroots football is about more than results. It is about community, respect and shared values that run deeper than the game itself.
