Liverpool FC is teaming up with the Football Association and the Liverpool County Football Association to host a coaches’ celebratory evening in recognition of Black History Month.

Taking place at Anfield on Friday October 20 from 6.30pm BST, the three-hour event will bring together the local community, guest speakers and former players to recognise the multi-cultural and diverse football history on Merseyside.

Those in attendance will be provided with an update on the BAME inclusion initiatives that are currently being run on both a local and national level, in addition to a further update on the changes that have been made to The FA’s coaching pathway.

Along with live video interviews with Liverpool legend John Barnes and former world cruiserweight boxing champion Tony Bellew, guests including Dr Colin King of the Black and Asian Coaches Association, professional boxer Natasha Jones, actress Phina Orouche and Kick It Out’s Troy Townsend will all make speeches on the evening.

The night will also provide networking opportunities for the region’s BAME coaches and, as part of The FA’s Coach Mentor programme, coaches will also be offered on-the-ground support to assist in their development.

With interactive feedback sessions also taking place, the evening will celebrate the achievements of BAME players and coaches on Merseyside, in addition to working together to grow the number of BAME participants involved in all areas of the game.

Dave Pugh, chief executive officer of the Liverpool FA, said: “The Liverpool FA is so proud to support Black History Month and this event provides us with the opportunity to celebrate the multi-cultural and diverse footballing history on Merseyside. 

“We’ve made great strides over the past two years to increase the number of BAME players, coaches and referees within Merseyside and at this event we can celebrate and recognise all the work our staff and communities do on a daily basis to deliver football for all in Merseyside.”

Places for the evening MUST be booked in advance and can be done so here via the Liverpool County FA website.

For further information, please contact Steve Swinnerton, Senior Football Services Officer, via 0151 523 4488 (Ext. 105).