Soccer club helps kids get fit

MORE than 3,000 local schoolchildren have been encouraged to get fit thanks to a community programme run by Warrington Town Football Club.

Funding from water giant United Utilities enabled full time community development officer James Standing, 25, to work in 14 local primary schools.
He has also worked with local junior football teams, the Warrington Junior League and Gulliver’s World to give children the chance to get fit and active. He aimed to meet the community club’s motto to “Improve Lifestyles Through Sport.”
James said: “The help and support I have had from United Utilities as our community partners, Warrington Borough Council, the directors of the football club along with the head teachers and PE staff in schools has been magnificent. To reach over 3,000 kids in 12 months is a big step forward for any club.”
James is the club’s only full time employee and was previously in a part-time role as first team coach. His playing career ended while playing in the Football Conference for the now defunct Leigh RMI before progressing into PE teaching in Wigan.
He said: “Once the chance to become full time in football came up, I had to apply for the role. It helps I have played the game and have a background in physical education in a number of sports, not just football, so we cover a wide variety as a community scheme.”
The club has set up a range of community activities including a Saturday soccer club for children aged four to12. Other events have included children’s birthday parties, half term multi-sport camp, and the Victoria Park Experience (VPX).
Warrington Town has 26 active junior teams from the age of under 7’s to under 17’s. Along with a competitive under 18’s youth team and the first team, who are currently managed by Shaun Reid, brother of ex England and Everton star Peter.
In July Gulliver’s World agreed to sponsor the young junior players while the Cheshire FA currently run football sessions during the week on the 3G pitches. All that combined with the passion and drive that the Evo-Stik NPL First Division North club have, can only grow stronge.
James Standing (centre) supported by his friends Gully Mouse from Gulliver’s World (left) and club mascot Warrington Disability Partnership’s Ollie The Owl (right).