FA link for youngsters at Trinity (From Echo)

FA link for youngsters at Trinity

2:30pm Thursday 11th March 2010 in

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COACHES and young leaders from Southend’s Trinity Youth have overcome hurdles to make the best possible use of their funding from the Football Association’s school club link programme.

They inspired the next generation of female footballers by delivering a 12-week football training programme as part of their work with neighbouring Temple Sutton Primary.

More than 25 children have attended the popular after-school clubs at Garon Park in Eastern Avenue at some stage which has since blossomed into a 15-strong group of regulars at the club’s Saturday-morning training sessions.

The aim is now for the girls to add to their list of friendlies this season before joining a local league in 2010/11 under the guidance and support of the Essex County FA.

But, according to coach Chris Reader, it was initially tough to get the project going.

He recalled: “When I was first asked to help out I initially had concerns about how we were going to get a good attendance as there were a few girls’ sessions already running. But, after a few meetings at the club, we decided on a venue, time and price for training.

“Now we’ve been able to play some friendly matches against Hullbridge Sports, which were very enjoyable for both the players and the parents, while the girls seem to be having fun at both the training and games.”

Lana Gillard, education development officer at the Essex FA, recently attended one of those friendlies between Trinity and the recently-formed Hullbridge in what was only the team’s second fixture.

She rewarded their efforts by presenting them with certificates and goody bags as part of the Three Lions FC programme.

She added: “What’s particularly positive about this development is that the club also have three young coaches involved — and they’ve had the opportunity to work alongside more experienced coaches while supporting the after-school club and the Saturday sessions.”

Girls aged seven to 11 interested in training or playing should contact Chris Reeder on 07753 573082.

Training takes place between 11am and 12 noon on Saturdays or, for girls living near Hullbridge, contact Peter Hanrahan from Hullbridge Sports on 01702 232710 where players train between 9.30 and 10.30 am, also on Saturdays.