News

GIRLS GET SET FOR FOOTBALL FUN

14.6.02

BCFA Girls Football Festival 2002

Sunday 23rd June 2002, 10am-3pm @ Fox Hollies Leisure Centre, Acocks Green, Birmingham

The Birmingham County FA providing a remedy to World Cup Fever by offering girls aged between 7 and 14 the chance to take part in their annual Football Festival on Sunday 23rd June at Fox Hollies Leisure Centre, Acocks Green.

The annual event has grown in popularity since it was launched in 1999 – the rain failed to dampen the spirits of over 200 girls who attended last year. This year the event is being run in conjunction with the Active Sports initiative.

A team of FA qualified coaches will be providing skills sessions and small sided games, plus the Strikes Speed Cage will be on hand to answer the question "can you kick it?".

"Football has recently become the top sport for girls and women," said BCFA's Girls & Women Football Development Officer, Rachel Dunlop who is organising the event.

"As the biggest celebration of girls football in our area, this is the ideal opportunity for girls to get out there and take part.

"Our coaches will ensure the girls have fun whether they have played football before or not - the emphasis is on enjoyment!" she added.

Registering for a day of football fun is easy by calling Birmingham County Football Development on 0121 682 2525, with the £1 entry fee payable on the day.

Those wanting to take part should bring a packed lunch and plenty to drink - and be prepared to have lots of fun!

Charter Standard Celebrations for Colts
24.6.02

One of the largest junior football clubs in The Black Country has been given a seal of approval by The Football Association.

Around 175 players and staff from Withymoor Colts attended the presentation of their FA Nationwide Charter Standard after proving to the sport's governing body that they are a safe, well operated outfit.

With 17 teams of children whose ages range from 5 to 16, Withymoor Colts have enjoyed their fair share of success in league and cup competitions this season - but are now celebrating their success away from the pitch!

In order to meet Charter Standard requirements, all Managers and Coaches have obtained FA Coaching and First Aid qualifications and also attended Child Protection courses, ensuring peace of mind for parents and top quality coaching for their children.

Janet Thomlinson and David Copper from Nationwide Building Society's Merry Hill Branch and Birmingham County FA PR Officer, Antonia Lacey presented Club Secretary, Gareth Kibby with their Charter Standard Certificate but the entire club wanted to join in the celebrations too!

"It's fitting that as many players, coaches and volunteers from the club are here to receive the Charter Standard as the application process involves everyone playing their part," said Antonia.

"Thanks to the support of Nationwide, we are able to provide the scheme free of charge to any club that wants it, whilst the County FA can give advice and support throughout the application process.

"We hope that many more clubs follow in Withymoor Colts' footsteps and take advantage of the benefits the initiative offers, whist ensuring children are given the best possible environment in which they can really enjoy playing football."

To register your club for a free Charter Standard Information & Application Pack, call Birmingham County FA on 0121 357 4278 or visit www.thefa.com