WITH MEMBERSHIP BOOMING the future looks assured for a highly successful Moray sports venture for young people.
However, the Forres Area Soccer 7s charity are facing serious issues this year as they plan for an army of enthusiastic youngsters descending on them from February.
Reliant entirely on adult volunteers to help with the myriad of jobs that ensure games for the youngsters run smoothly, the sports group has now issued a plea for local people to step forward with at least 20 new coaches required.
Club chairman Sean Moat explained: “Traditionally we have often had parents of children who attend the club becoming coaches and volunteering, but we have had quite a few children move on from the club due to their age and the parents have decided to go too.
“We would welcome help from anyone though, not just people whose children are involved. As long as they are enthusiastic, like kids and are happy to muck in twice a week.
“They don’t even need to have an interest in football – they just need to be able to get the kids excited about the sport. We have great training systems for coaches, so nobody would be left not being able to add value to the group.”
The club, which meets every Sunday at Grant Park and once a week for training sessions, understands the importance of keeping kids active. It also creates a foundation for young players who wish to progress their footballing career and help provide a stepping stone to more advanced development.
Catering for boys and girls from four to 12-years-old, the Soccer 7s will return at Grant Park on February 14 by which time they hope to welcome more volunteer coaches to join the booming participation levels.
Sean added: “Coupled with the fact that we have lost coaches, we are also looking at a number of new youngsters starting in February – so we need to make sure we can cater for all these active kids.”
To find out more about becoming a coach contact Paul Lynch, Football Development Officer, on 07446053780 or email paul.lynch@forres-soccer7s.co.uk