how we got here
At 7 years-old, my son suddenly became obsessed with playing football. So we started to look for a club.
Months and months of enquiries - ignored or rejected - led us to a realisation: we’d have to do it ourselves.
Grassroots football is inaccessible to so many children who just want to play.
We’re here to make that happen.
Anyone can play football, and everyone should have the chance.
I’ve managed my son’s football team since 2024, when with a group of other like-minded parents - and with the help of an established club - we formed a new U10s team.
But this isn’t common, or possible, for everyone. We were lucky.
So I founded Time to Play to give something back - to help children access the sport. And for any child who want to go on and play for a club, we can act as a stepping stone into organised club football.
Based in Kent (please fill in the webform on this site or email enquiries@timetoplay.uk for any questions about locations and times)
My Approach
Matthew Silk
(Founder and Head Coach, Time to Play)
I am FA registered and qualified, and have been coaching and running my son’s U10s, U11s, and now U12s team since 2024.
Our team accepts anyone, so long as they come with the right attitude and do their best for the team.
We focus on fun and participation.
Time to Play looks to take this spirit and ethos - something sadly lacking across grassroots football - and expand it out to a wider group, helping young people to get into football and grow their love for the game.
it’s Simple
We meet for an hour, as a group or 1:2:1, and practice football skills.
The focus is on fun, and tailored to the interests and skills of the children.
Everyone is welcome, everyone plays.
Lasting impact
Playing a team sport is good for children - it helps then learn to work as a team and overcome adversity.
They learn to take risks in a safe environment.
Football is for everyone, regardless of ability.