10 Things Philanthropy Can Learn From Football

Football has somehow become a big part of my life. 

I grew up playing football from a young age, and then sadly stopped when I felt it wasn’t the ‘cool thing’ for a girl to do (luckily, these gender stereotypes are changing). Then a couple of years ago (following England’s women’s team winning the Euros), I was inspired to pick it back up again! I started playing for an informal 5-aside league, which then led me to my now 11-aside football club, the South London Laces. 

A month ago, we were taking part in an international football tournament in Portugal and just last week, I was completely transfixed by the latest Euros football tournament (where sadly for England, it did not come home - kudos to the amazing Spanish team)...

Why am I telling you this you ask?

Well, while philanthropy and football may seem worlds apart, I’ve started thinking about the many similarities that can provide valuable lessons for those in the philanthropic sector. I for one, am always learning about the essential elements of football that can inspire and inform effective philanthropy, including: 

1. Teamwork = Collaboration

It may sound rather cliche, but there really is no ‘I’ in ‘team’, and success in football is achieved through the collective effort of the entire team. Each player has a specific role and contributes to the team's overall performance. Similarly, in philanthropy, collaboration is key. Nonprofits, donors, and wider community members must work together towards a common goal. By fostering strong partnerships and encouraging open communication, philanthropic organisations can maximise their impact, just as football teams do on the pitch.

2. Technique = Mastery of Skills

In football, technique encompasses ball control, dribbling skills, passing accuracy, and body control. These skills are sharpened through rigorous training and regular practice (like I do every Wednesday evening!). Similarly, effective philanthropy requires mastery of various skills, including fundraising, strategic planning, and project management. Just as footballers must perfect their techniques to excel, philanthropists must continuously develop their skills to effectively address complex social issues.

3. Coachability = Feedback

Footballers thrive when they are open to feedback and willing to learn from coaches and teammates. In philanthropy, being coachable means being receptive to new ideas, learning from successes and failures, and continuously improving. This openness to growth enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of philanthropic efforts.

4. Game Intelligence = Strategic Insight

Tactical knowledge in football refers to understanding the nature and structure of the game. Players need to know when to press, when to hold back, and how best to support each other. In philanthropy, tactical knowledge involves understanding the landscape of social issues, identifying leverage points, and devising strategies that create lasting impact. A deep understanding of the field allows philanthropists to make informed decisions and implement effective interventions.

5. Spatial Awareness = Holistic Perspectives

Spatial awareness in football is the ability to see and utilise space effectively on the pitch. It enables players to make strategic passes, evade defenders, and create scoring opportunities. In philanthropy, spatial awareness translates to an awareness of the broader context in which one operates. This includes understanding the needs of different communities, recognising gaps in services, and identifying opportunities for collaboration. By maintaining a holistic perspective, philanthropic efforts can be more targeted and impactful.

6. Fitness = Building Endurance

Endurance is crucial for footballers, allowing them to perform at a high level despite fatigue and stress. In philanthropy, endurance is equally important. Addressing social issues is often a long-term endeavour, requiring sustained effort and resilience. Philanthropists must be prepared to face challenges, setbacks, and slow progress, maintaining their commitment over the long haul.

7. Speed = Efficiency

Speed in football is necessary for quick decision-making and rapid execution. In philanthropy, the ability to respond swiftly to emerging needs and opportunities is vital. Philanthropic organisations must be agile, adapting to changing circumstances and seizing moments when they can make the greatest impact. Plus, the way decisions are communicated and funds are transferred, should always be implemented in a speedy manner! 

8. Proper Mindset = Cultivating Resilience

Compassion is at the heart of philanthropy, just as it is in the best football teams, where players support and uplift each other. Just like the England squad in the men’s Euros final, footballers need composure and mental strength to perform under pressure and bounce back from defeat. Similarly, philanthropists must remain composed in the face of adversity, maintaining their focus and determination. Mental resilience allows them to navigate setbacks and continue their mission with renewed vigour.

9. Risk Assessment = Strategic Decision-Making

Risk assessment in football involves weighing the potential outcomes of aggressive plays against the possibility of losing possession. In philanthropy, risk assessment is about evaluating the potential impact of different initiatives and making informed decisions. Effective philanthropists understand that some risks are necessary for innovation and progress, but they must be carefully managed to avoid unintended consequences.

10. Passion = The Heart of Success

The most important trait a footballer must possess is a burning passion and love for the sport. This passion drives them to put in countless hours of practice, both on and off the pitch. They watch matches, analyse plays, and constantly strive to improve. In philanthropy, the same level of passion is essential. Those dedicated to social justice must be deeply committed to their cause, and willing to go the extra mile to make a difference. This passion fuels perseverance, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of positive change.

Football and philanthropy, though seemingly different, share fundamental principles that can guide us towards success. By embracing collaboration, passion, skill development, strategic insight, endurance, and a resilient mindset, philanthropists can enhance their efforts and achieve greater impact. Just as footballers strive for victory on the pitch (maybe the future looks a little brighter for England’s men's team?), those in philanthropy can work towards a better world, one goal at a time!

Some of my South London Laces team while in Portugal.