Southend Junior Football League

The Southend & District Youth League stands as a cornerstone of youth football in the Essex region since its establishment in 1972. Founded by Roy Chaplin with just 8 teams, the league has grown exponentially over five decades to now encompass over 50 clubs with approximately 330 teams competing across various age groups.

The league provides structured competition for numerous age categories, including Under-11, Under-14, and Under-15 divisions, offering young players valuable opportunities to develop their skills in a competitive environment. Recent fixtures from early March 2025 demonstrate the league's continued vibrancy, with numerous matches taking place across all sections.

Beyond mere competition, the Southend & District Youth League maintains clear organizational standards, including regulations about team registrations and kit specifications. This level of organization has helped sustain the league's longevity and reputation as one of the region's premier youth football competitions, serving generations of young footballers in the Southend area.