Montenegro's Grassroots Day joy

The positive impact of UEFA Grassroots Day was highlighted in Montenegro where it is hoped that a number of youngsters will start playing football as a direct result of the activities organised around the country.

Events were organised in four cities by the Football Federation of Montenegro (FSCG) with a total of around 1,350 boys and girls aged between six and 11 involved with coaches on full-size pitches. The activities took place in Niksic, Podgorica, Bar and Kotor and included children from a total of 45 football schools.

"There was a lot of fun and everybody enjoyed the children's games. Everyone was a winner," FSCG grassroots manager Zoran Mijović told UEFA.com. "I am very sure that all participants in the Montenegro Grassroots Day were very satisfied and happy. Almost everyone asked me and the coaches when the next activities or tournament they could take part in would be organised.

"UEFA Grassroots Day is very important as it is a celebration of grassroots football. Also, it is very important for getting new players and other participants involved in the game and to give a chance to everyone who likes football and who wants to play and enjoy the sport."

A Girls Open Day was also arranged in Cetinje involving 25 young female footballers. The event comes as the association looks to push women's football in Montenegro with a plan in place for ten new clubs and a view to starting a women's national team for the first time. The FSCG also plans to register all boys and girls above the age of six playing football, with records of their full name and date of birth. Another new development for their grassroots programme will see new 'City Leagues' played and due to begin at the start of October.