Jordan Mason - From Youth Council to Full-Time Football Development Officer
Former Lincolnshire FA Youth Council member Jordan Mason recently spoke to us about how joining the Youth Council kick-started his career in football...
“I’ve had a passion for football since I was about 12, but I was never a world beater. This didn’t stop me being obsessed with the sport, and I could never do enough to quite satisfy my passion for the game – despite becoming a referee at 14, a coach at 16, and starting my own team at 17.
During my time at University, I was asked to join the Lincolnshire FA Youth Council by the Students’ Union as I was already involved with their Social Football Programme, and I jumped at the opportunity. I was always keen to provide opportunities for those that might not have been quite as fortunate as myself.
In the early stages of 2020, I was successful in joining the Lincolnshire FA Youth Council, and I had a great time being involved with some exciting projects and meeting like-minded individuals that want to develop the game and provide a platform for young people.
I had an opportunity to network and deliver projects with County FA staff, such as supporting one of the Football Development Officers to organise and deliver the Futsal FA Cup. I always knew I wanted to work in football, but it wasn’t until this point it was clear to me that Football Development was my calling.
I soon became the Chair of the Youth Council, getting the opportunity to lead meetings and represent the Youth Council to the Lincolnshire FA Board and to external clubs. I also joined the FA’s Regional Youth Network and sat on some National Youth Council meetings, networking with other Youth Councils and having an input into National Youth Council matters.
My experiences on the Youth Council have supported my personal and professional development more than I could have ever imagined. I’ve made friends, developed my skills, and grown in confidence.
At the end of 2021, Lincolnshire County Football Association were advertising for a Football Development Officer (Disability and Inclusion Lead). Through the networks, skills, and experiences I had built through my time on the Lincolnshire FA Youth Council, I was successful in securing my dream role!
The Youth Council opened so many doors for me and has provided me with everything I need for my career. I can’t recommend the Youth Council enough – it aided my development in more ways than one and helped me into my dream job!”
If you are interested in joining the Lincolnshire FA Youth Council to develop the game and provide a platform for young people, you can find the Application Information Pack below.
Please complete both the Application form and the Equality and Diversity Monitoring form found in the Application Pack.
Please note that the closing date for applications is Monday 28 March 2022, with interviews taking place week commencing 4 April 2022.
If you are interested in finding out more information, please contact Jordan at Jordan.Mason@LincolnshireFA.com or call 01522 596580.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD APPLICATION PACK