Production Process - Interview #2

The issues surrounding grassroots football is something the media have addressed in the past, with journalist for the Independent, Jack Pitt-Brooke, being one of the individuals who has delved into the issue.

"English football's grassroots are dying a slow, painful and avoidable death" is a piece written by Jack, where he effectively asserts the point that grassroots football is in a terminal condition, as a result of a lack of central government funding to local councils, which has seen playing fields that would be used for football in local communities, having to be sold at an alarming rate in order for local councils to raise funds.

This element is something that the documentary will look to focus on, and I will look to balance the argument by speaking to an individual from the FA or perhaps central government, with someone who is likely to offer a differing perspective on grassroots.

Central government may argue that football has become widely more accessible as a result of increased 3G pitches across the UK in recent years, but it could be argued that this type of experience does not give the authentic feel that can be seen with grassroots football, where youngsters are likely to gain a greater grasp of how the game works, and how to deal with the grass surface.

3G pitches are a type of pitch where the turf is completely artificial, with lead beads spread across in order to give more of a bounce to proceedings. It has become something of a notorious talking point when it comes to the issue of grassroots football in the country, with many seeing it as an alternative to playing fields, which are seemingly evaporating for footballing organisations across the country, whether it be a little league, or a small football club.

It may also be argued that whilst 3G pitches are more accessible, they are only useful for 5 a side games of football, when 11 a side is more ideal experience for a young talented footballer.