Each year the number of adult clubs engaging with the Scottish FA Quality Mark scheme is increasing, and more so, the number of youth and adult clubs coming together to develop a stronger player pathway within their local community. Carnoustie Panmure are highlighted in the footage as a fantastic model of many others out there; that by developing relationships and working together will help in the transition from youths to the adult game. Across the East, Carnoustie Panmure have long been regarded as an excellent “community club model” housing a strong player pathway under one identity. In 2013 the club were invited to visit Sweden with the Scottish FA to see how Swedish clubs operate and function as big strong community clubs. This inspired the club on their return to develop a similar model, and after 3 years hard work of bringing football together, they now have a community club charity with a one club model structure beneath to support the game in their area.

Further still, the need for football to work together is becoming more the “norm” across different clubs and in 2017 Carnoustie Panmure buddied up with neighbour club rivals Monifieth Athletic, working together to support the growth and development of the girls game across the Panmure area. This has allowed a Panmure Focus Group to be established and discuss the wider picture of football, share resources and understand the priorities for the footballing community.

Football for Life is the Scottish FA’s vision and this is documented in more detail within our One National Plan 2017-2020. Community clubs are playing a key role to contributing to our game achieving this along with a partnership approach.