Glasgow All Nations Sports and Recreation (ANSAR) has become the first club from an Ethnic Minority community to receive the Scottish FA’s Quality Mark ‘Standard’ award.

The Quality Mark accreditation scheme is a system whereby specific criteria aimed at improving or supporting management, development structures, administration, planning and welfare must be met within the club to receive the award.

Hala Ousta, football equity officer for the Scottish FA’s West Region, said: “We would like to congratulate ANSAR on the completion of the Quality Mark Standard status.

“ANSAR have been working towards breaking down barriers for diverse under-represented groups and increasing their participation within football for over 10 years.

“Their work towards embracing the inclusivity and up-skilling members from various backgrounds is inspiring.

“We are very proud and hope this achievement will motivate and inspire many other similar groups to strive towards gaining Quality Mark with our support.”

ANSAR has a proud history of success - winning the Unity Cup, Unity League, All Nations Cup and gaining promotion in its first year to the Glasgow Colleges FA League.

The club has holiday programmes, partnership working, developmental five-a-side leagues and innovative projects to name a few.

Hala added: “Quality Mark is great for clubs who are striving to achieve high standards for their members.

“It helps access to further support and new channels whether in the way of concessions, wider funding opportunities and generally being part of a network promoting good practice.

“This supports clubs like ANSAR in their work to further break down barriers and promote a positive working environment for all involved.”

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