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Sir Stanley Matthews Foundation
"Young people today, for all their awareness and sophistication with modern technical innovations, are still basically the same as youngsters in my day, no better, no worse. I am convinced that some people would benefit from taking up a sport, even a sociable kickabout with mates in the park. I've seen the value of youngsters playing football in just about every country in the world. That's why since my retirement as a player, I have travelled the globe preaching the gospel of football."
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Sir Stanley Matthews
Sir Stanley Matthews Foundation at a Glance
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The Sir Stanley Matthews Coaching Foundation (SSMCF) develops and educates young people into rounded, active citizens. We do this by supporting and advising sports projects across the globe as well as running our own.
Whether cricket or football, sailing or any other sport, the common thread uniting our work is the seven values that Sir Stanley Matthews embodied:
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The Foundation's Clubs
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Clubs and individuals who reach a certain level on our assessment criteria are invited to join the charity's entry-level club. As members learn how to incorporate the Foundation's values, they are eligible to move up into higher groups.
'32 Club
Sir Stanley made his professional debut for Stoke City on the 19th March 1932, having played 22 games for the reserves. Our '32 Club recognises this important milestone - individuals and projects which enter this group are already exhibiting many aspects of our seven values.
'48 Club
The '48 Club is named after Sir Stanley's first FA Cup final appearance in 1948. Sir Stanley realised that if he were to succeed, he would need to improve. He did this consistently. For example, in the 1935-36 season, he added the double body swerve to his game becoming even more effective. Similarly, for individuals and projects to enter the '48 Club, they need to show consistently high standards across the seven Foundation values.
'51 Club
While closer to winning the FA Cup in 1951, Sir Stanley was unable to drive his team forward to the ultimate prize. Similarly, individuals and projects in the '51 Club are those that are operating at a very high level indeed. Nevertheless, there are still changes and improvements that can be made.
'53 Club
Named after the 'Matthews Final' of 1953 when Sir Stanley finally reached his goal, this club recognises children and young people, as well as projects and coaching staff, that are implementing the seven values at the highest level.