Heybridge Swifts FC hosted its first ever local schools five-a-side tournament hoping to attract more youngsters to play the beautiful game.
Organisers of the tournament, held at the clubs stadium in Scraley road, Heybridge, last Friday (May 9) had invited 25 local schools with six accepting and sending 15 teams to compete in the day-long competition.
Organiser and treasurer of Heybridge Swifts, Ian Kennedy, 43, of Great Totham told the Chronicle: "It was a great day and an impressive turnout, we always try to keep things relaxed and fun.
"It was great to see so many kids having playing the game and hopefully this will spark some interest in some of the children that played."
All the children received a medal, handed out by West Ham legend Julian Dicks giving his time for free, a boot bag and three free 'Pay and play' sessions ran by the Swifts.
The club are hoping to attract more children to play in the younger age groups as the Under 8 team were not been able to play this season due to low numbers.
Father-of-three Ian added: "The club wants to build relationships with the local schools and highlight what we are trying to achieve at the club.
"We have good facilities and connections for elite boys and girls as well as teams that play because they enjoy playing win, lose or draw."
Mr Kennedy has approached a number of higher qualified coaches to help coach the children this year.
"We have approached a few well-qualified coaches and they have really helped us out. We want to focus on developing individuals whatever their ability is when they start," added Mr Kennedy.
The schools attending included Heybridge Primary, Great Totham Primary, Milldene Primary, Howbridge Junior, Wentworth Primary, and All Saints Primary.
Mike Cornall from South Woodham coaches various junior teams at Colchester United and was able to give his time to help out, he said: "It's really important that we try to get more children into outdoor sports like football.
"I played for Heybridge myself so I know how much the club cares about the local community and the kids here."
Sponsors for the event included Mack Mazda who gave £200 cash, Yours In Sport, who supplied discounted equipment needed and donated a World Cup football that was signed by Julian Dicks.
The Essex FA loaned all the goals, bibs and a representative for the tournament.
Heybridge Swifts are hosting 'Pay and Play' sessions at Scraley Road from Saturday May 17 (10am to 11.30am)with no commitment to the club aimed to encourage boys and girls from ages four to nine to play football. The cost is £2 per session.
On August 4 -8 (10:00 – 14:00) they are running a summer school open to all children with a cost for the week being £50 to cover the cost of coaches.
For more information on both events you can contact the club at heybridgeswiftsyouth@gmail.com
