The FSA Younger Fans Network
The Football Supporters Association Younger Fans Network met this week, bringing together an ever-growing group of passionate supporters and organisers committed to improving the matchday experience and wider engagement/influence for young people across the country.
The meeting highlighted significant progress since the group’s formation and set a clear, collaborative path for the months ahead.
Building Momentum: Progress Since the Last Meeting
The session opened with a warm welcome and a recap from The FSA's Jess Grundy, who outlined the strides made since the previous gathering. From stronger communication channels to increased input from fan groups across leagues, the Younger Fans Network has continued to grow both in reach and influence - it is a network that is really developing, and striving to influence not only football governance in regards to the younger generations, but also the networking options too.
A Strong Vision for Young Supporters
The National Working Group (NWG) update placed particular emphasis on shaping a long-term vision for engaging younger supporters. Discussions centred on developing consistent, meaningful communication with fans aged 16–30 and ensuring their voices are embedded in decision-making processes at both club and national levels.
Members also stressed the importance of creating supporting documents and clear communication frameworks. These tools will help streamline the group’s work, outline shared priorities, and ensure clubs understand what young fans need to stay connected to the game.
Tackling a Key Issue: Ticket Pricing for Under-30s
One of the standout topics was a renewed focus on ticket pricing for younger supporters. With clubs across the country implementing general price increases, the Network agreed that now is the time for the group via The FSA to develop a strong, unified position on fair and accessible pricing & banding for 16–30-year-olds.
Discussions explored what a “reasonable norm” for under-30 ticket pricing should look like, how clubs should structure youth-related discounts, and what best practice in this area might be. The Network is committed to ensuring clubs understand that affordability is not simply a perk for younger fans—it’s essential to securing the next generation of lifelong supporters.
Listening Better: Improving Matchday Feedback Loops
Another major theme was the need for clubs to invest in better mechanisms for gathering feedback from younger supporters. The group highlighted that fans aged 16–30 are a vital but often overlooked demographic whose matchday experiences can differ massively from older and more experienced age groups.
Suggestions included targeted surveys, dedicated youth forums, and more informal channels for ongoing engagement. The ultimate goal is to create a more inclusive, responsive environment—one where young fans feel heard and valued.
Encouraging Young Adults to Stay Connected to the Game
Finally, the group discussed practical ways to encourage 16–30-year-olds to attend matches more regularly and deepen their connection with their clubs. Ideas ranged from tailored ticket bundles to digital-first communication strategies, social matchday events, and initiatives that recognise the financial pressures younger adults face. The development of getting more and more of these younger fans involved both at their clubs, but also democratic football organisations (be that Supporters' Trusts, National Networks or Fan Advisory Boards) is vital for further engagement development.
Looking Ahead
The meeting closed with an open-floor AOB session, reaffirming the collaborative spirit that drives the Younger Fans Network forward. With a clearer vision, sharper priorities, and a firm commitment to making football more affordable and welcoming for younger supporters, the Network continues to build momentum.
As the FSA and its members develop new guidelines, deepen communication, and push for meaningful change on ticket pricing, one thing is clear: the voices of young fans are becoming impossible to ignore—and the game will be stronger for it.
For more information on how to join the Young Supporters Network (16-30yo), be sure to reach out to The FSA via info@thefsa.org.uk or jess.grundy@thefsa.org.uk
Photo by Rhea Spencer-Newell