In the football industry, the terms Club Community Organisation (CCO) and Club refer to two distinct entities that serve different purposes, although they are often closely linked.
A football club is the core sporting organisation. It manages the professional teams, players, coaching staff, matchday operations, and commercial activities. The Club’s main objective is sporting success, such as winning matches, trophies, and competing at the highest level. It also generates revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, merchandise, and sponsorships.
In contrast, a CCO (Club Community Organisation) is the charitable or not-for-profit arm of a football club. Its purpose is to use the power of football to deliver social impact within the community. CCOs run programs focused on education, health, inclusion, employability, and youth engagement. While they often carry the branding of the football club and benefit from its popularity, CCOs operate independently, with separate governance, funding, and staff structures.
For example, in England, organisations like the Accrington Stanley Community Trust is a CCO that deliver programs benefiting thousands of people, regardless of whether they support the club.
In summary, while the football club competes on the pitch, the CCO works off the pitch to change lives in the community. Their missions are different but complementary, united by a shared identity and passion for football.