NEW Sussex FA chief executive Ken Benham has pleaded with former footballers to follow his lead and put something back into the game.

Benham, who takes up his post on Monday, wants them to get involved again. Whether it is coaching youngsters, running a women's side or taking up refereeing, Benham is determined to coax as many players as possible to help raise the standards of Sussex football.

The former centre-back said: "I played football for many years at parks level. Instead of saying 'thank you very much' and walking away, I went back into the game on the administrative side.

"I think all players should think long and hard about all the enjoyment they've had while playing and how they can give something back by helping others have fun too."

One of Benham's main briefs is to develop youth and women's football. He is particularly keen to promote the girls' game.

Julie Hemsley is the Sussex FA women's football development officer and Benham wants to see more women on the county board. "We're hoping to push girls playing football through schools and clubs," said Benham. "Women's and girls' football is thriving and the county FA need to get more involved."

Youth football has exploded in recent years, too, and Benham says more people are needed to take up coaching.

The lack of referees in the county is a cause for concern. "There's a drastic need for referees and one of the tasks shortly will be to recruit more," said Benham.

He succeeds David Worsfold who quit after 12 years through ill-health.

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