Prince William visits Walsall in a pledge to make football more diverse
His Royal Highness wants more diversity in referees
The Prince of Wales has made a trip to Walsall today (11th March) in a pledge to make football refereeing more diverse.
As part of the future King's role in the Football Association, the FA want to recruit more people from black, Asian and mixed heritage backgrounds into refereeing roles.
Prince William went along to Sporting Khalsa FC in Willenhall, where they were teaching a refereeing course to people in the region.
The course started in July 2023 and combines theory and practical training to support those taking their first steps into officiating.
During the visit, William met representatives from the FA to hear about the importance of opening up opportunities in football to young people from diverse backgrounds.
He then spoke to British Army Lieutenant Levi Gray, a professional referee and trainer on the course, to hear about her career journey.
Finally, the Prince had the opportunity to practise being a referee in a mini football game alongside participants on the programme.