From Grassroots to Greatness

The inspirational stories of England’s brightest stars will be displayed at the National Football Museum this summer, as the museum explores player journeys from kickabouts to the world stage. 

On now at the National Football Museum, From Grassroots to Greatness explores the streets, playgrounds, clubs, families, and friends that have shaped the people who have represented their club or country, proof that every legend starts somewhere. 

Origins, a special display created in partnership with England Football, looks at the beautiful game from park pitches to the pinnacle of international football. Delve deep into the journeys of coaches, referees, managers and some of England’s greatest players, as Origins celebrates the country’s grassroots football pedigree during June and July. 

From Grassroots to Greatness also gives visitors an opportunity to follow the footballing journey of England men’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer Harry Kane, through his own personal and sentimental football memorabilia. 

Loaned from Kane’s own collection, objects include a junior team shirt from Ridgeway Rovers, an England debut shirt and match-worn football boots. The objects feature in the museum’s England on the World Stage display from Wednesday 17 June to Monday 31 August. 

Visitors this summer can also explore Head, Shoulders, Knees and Goals, the museum’s special exhibition unpacking the game through the body and mind, movement, representation, science and what it feels like to play and be a fan. Then, test your skills with Yard Ball, a fun, nostalgic take on street football, both kindly supported by The Players Foundation. 

On the 13-14 and 18-19 June, join National Football Museum for PitchFest: a free festival of football, play, and creativity and retro shirts. Guests and special pop-ups at this year’s Pitch Fest include The Shirt Collectors, Grassroots XL, Manchester FA, Squadra, Hattricks and Foudys.