A NEW award has been introduced to recognise the contribution grass roots coaches make to football.

The Football Association, in conjunction with McDonalds, wants players, friends, fellow coaches or parents to nominate a coach for the award online at www.TheFA.com/ FALearning

And the winner will be the FA's chief guest at this year's Community Shield final. There will also be an opportunity to watch an England training session with Sven Goran Eriksson and receive coaching equipment worth more than £5,000.

As well as an overall winner, regional coaches will be recognised for their commitment to football.

Sir Geoff Hurst, one of the members on the panel to decide the winning coach said: "Both myself and McDonalds are delighted to be working with The FA in recognising the tireless work grass roots coaches put into local teams and communities."