Football Association of Wales announces landmark registration figures

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has reached a landmark in player registrations with 120,000 signed up for the first time – a milestone it says reflects the growth of the game across the country and the governing body’s push to make football more accessible at every level. 

The 120,000 figure is up 25% from 96,000 in 2021/22. 

The women’s and girls’ game has been the biggest benefactor of that inflation, which the FAW accredits to the national team’s ‘strong performances’.  

The stats released by the organisation show that female registrations climbed from 13,000 to more than 21,000 over that four-year spread, an increase of over 60%, driven by initiatives including Huddle, UEFA Disney Playmakers and a wider effort to create more opportunities for girls to play. 

The growth has not been limited to traditional club football either. Recreational participation has exploded from just 300 registered players four years ago to more than 7,000 this season, suggesting there is growing demand for more flexible and social ways to engage with the sport. 

Small-sided football made up a large part of that growth, too – rising from 46,000 players to 59,000, while senior football registrations have increased from 33,000 to 37,000. Disability football, which has only recently been tracked within the FAW’s registration data, has tripled from 300 players in 2023/24 to 900 this season. 

FAW chief executive Noel Mooney said: “Reaching 120,000 registered players is a proud moment for football in Wales and a testament to the incredible work taking place across the game. From our grassroots clubs and volunteers to our schools, leagues, coaches, referees and community partners, this milestone belongs to everyone who gives their time and energy to Welsh football. 

“Our focus is now on building on this momentum by creating even more opportunities to play, improving facilities across the country, supporting clubs off the pitch and ensuring that football remains a game for everyone in Wales.” 

The FAW accredited much of that success to the people working behind the scenes every week to keep local football running. 

Ben Field, Head of Grassroots Football, said: “Area Associations and league volunteers are the backbone of grassroots football in Wales. Their commitment, expertise and countless hours of work behind the scenes ensure that football can be played and enjoyed in communities across the country every week. 

“From administering competitions and supporting clubs to governing the game locally, their contribution is vital to the continued growth and success of Welsh football. Reaching 120,000 registered players would not have been possible without their dedication, and this milestone is as much a celebration of their efforts as it is of the players themselves.”