7th September 2026

Guernsey FA and Specsavers Team Up to Help Young Footballers Play Safely and Inclusively

The Guernsey FA has announced a new partnership with Specsavers Opticians in Market Street, providing discounted prescription sports goggles for young players who need vision support. It is hoped that the scheme will help more children participate in football safely, confidently and comfortably by removing the barriers that can sometimes prevent children from fully enjoying the game.

Developed with player welfare and safeguarding at its heart, the voucher scheme will operate through clubs and welfare officers, ensuring support reaches children who will benefit most from the programme.

For many young players, wearing everyday glasses during football can present challenges. Sports goggles are designed specifically for physical activity, offering a safer and more secure alternative that allows children to focus on enjoying the game, developing their skills and being part of their team.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment between the Guernsey FA and Specsavers Opticians in Market Street to create positive sporting experiences for all children and to ensure football remains accessible to every young person, regardless of their circumstances or vision needs.

Gary Roberts, CEO at the Guernsey FA, said: "Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy football in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. This partnership helps remove a practical barrier that some young players face and supports our wider commitment to player welfare, participation and inclusion across grassroots football.
"We are grateful to Specsavers Opticians in Market Street for working with us to create a scheme that will benefit local families and help more children play with confidence."

Matt Thoume, a director at Specsavers Opticians in Market Street, said: "We are excited to be teaming up with the Guernsey FA to help local grass roots players gain access to football when they previously might not have thought possible.
"Good vision plays an important role in confidence and enjoyment in sport. By providing access to specialist sports eyewear, we hope to support young footballers across the island and help ensure that wearing glasses is never a reason for a child to miss out."

The aim is to keep the going for the scheme running for the long term. The not-for-profit goggles will be glazed with the player’s exact prescription and are available from Specsavers Opticians in Market Street.

The partnership, which launched just ahead of the new football season, gives families the opportunity to explore suitable options as the children prepare to return to training and matches.

For more information, email [email protected].