In 1974, with the creation of the new county of Cleveland, the districts of Langbaurgh (now Redcar & Cleveland), Stockton, Middlesbrough, and Hartlepool came together to establish the Cleveland County Schools' Football Association. This collaboration marked the beginning of a strong and enduring commitment to schools’ football in the region.
Following the abolition of Cleveland County in the late 1990s, the term "County" was dropped from the name, and the association became known simply as the Cleveland Schools' Football Association.
A key figure in the foundation of the association was Richard (Dick) Grunwell, who served as the first Secretary until 1982. His dedication and service to schools’ football were recognised nationally with the award of an O.B.E.
He was succeeded by Peter Mellor (1982–1986) and then Malcolm Danby (1986–2011). Malcolm’s long-standing contribution was similarly honoured with an M.B.E. in the 2011 New Year’s Honours list.
All three former secretaries—Grunwell, Mellor, and Danby—are to be commended for their outstanding service and commitment to the development of schools' football across the Cleveland area.
The current Secretary is Simon Carey, who took over from Malcolm Danby in 2011. Simon has been a dedicated figure in local football for many years, playing a key role in Stockton, Middlesbrough Schools FA and Cleveland Schools FA for over 30 years
