Over the past 6 months we have seen a significant rise in crowd disorder, pitch invasions and anti-social behaviour at Scottish football grounds. There is also significant growth in 'Ultra' groups - almost always young men- who view allegiance a football club as a huge part of their identity and gather in these groups to march to grounds, create banners, use pyros and other displays of collective belonging. Sadly, this can also result in sectarian and anti-social/criminal behavior.

Participants are drawn from referrals made by teachers, parents/carers and partner youth agencies and the project runs in conjunction with schools. Participants typically have a record of behavioural issues at school with regular non-attendance and many are involved in the ‘Ultra’ movement. The project uses football to provide them with a positive educational experience through workshops, guest speakers and club visits and a chance to make more informed choices at a pivotal part of their life