With the World Cup kicking off over the past week and the nation descending into a football frenzy once more, how will the competition affect the grass roots game? Any major football tournament brings with it a chorus of noise and excitement, but how do those who are watching their first World Cup act after viewing such a raucous and competitive showcase of footballing brilliance. Are local football clubs for fun or fixtures?

Grass roots football is what keeps the game alive and what makes it such an inclusive and diverse environment, but should there be a more competitive focus around the game? You can become involved in football from as young as 5 years old, in a sport which provokes emotions of pure joy and ecstasy, but is there a competitive edge missing at that first tier of English football? Archie Stone, a young player whose been involved with the game from the age of 5 voiced his opinion on the subject, “As a football player since the age of 5, I have developed a strong passion for football, this has led to me wanting games to be competitive and would not enjoy it so much if it was not.”

On one hand, football is a game that seems to pride itself on welcoming people of all backgrounds and abilities, where no-one should feel different or belittled for their skill level. However, on the other hand there is the aspect of fighting spirit that may never get through to young children and young adults (who are the future of the sport) which could be seriously harmful to the future of football in our country. Many local football clubs have inclusive policies where there are guarantees for all young players to be involved, yet, can a determination to find that fighting spirit co-exist with that inclusivity? It's brilliant to include everyone in a sport like football and give everybody a go, yet despite this, a young footballer must be able to anticipate the real life challenges that come with growing up and a competitive sporting environment is a great way to do that. Competitive instincts are extremely useful in all walks of life and a skilful, intense atmosphere could nurture that mentality in our young footballers. Overall, it comes down to one key aspect, how seriously are you ready to take this sport?