Power firm’s packet for jackets at cup winning Hamstreet team
Cup winners at a successful new football team in Hamstreet, near Ashford, are sporting new all-weather jackets, thanks to their dedicated manager.
James Coster, from the groundworks team at UK Power Networks, secured a £250 grant from his employer UK Power Networks to help equip the new under-9s squad at Hamstreet Youth Football Club, where players recently won the Ashford and District Cup Final.
The power firm’s sports awards encourage staff to volunteer in the community, support grassroots sport, promote healthy living, teamwork and develop sports opportunities.
James, who gives his free time to manage the club, said: “It feels amazing giving back to the local community. The grant was very generous, and the club is delighted with the funding towards new jackets to keep the players warm and dry.
“Our young players are out in the wind and rain and battle through, but we like to protect them. I bought benches for our five subs, who need to keep warm before they play, and now they can wear their jackets and take them on and off as they please. The kids are over the moon.”
Andy Othen, vice-chairman of Hamstreet Youth Football Club, said: “UK Power Networks’ generous donation will allow us to provide training jackets for our under-9s team.
“The team were new this year to the league and under the guidance of James Coster, have settled really well, are playing some attractive football, and I’m really pleased we recently won the Ashford and District Cup Final. Funding such as this goes a long way to ensure our young generation can enjoy outdoor sports and encourages inclusivity to all.”
James’s two sons Frankie and Ralphie play in the club’s under-9s and under-6s teams and are ‘football mad’, supporting rival clubs Arsenal and Chelsea. James said: “The club approached me looking for volunteers, so I’m managing the team and enjoy giving my knowledge and experience to the young players.
“The team is enjoying the football and it’s good for their physical and mental health. It’s not about winning every week. They put their boots on and want to be Ronaldo or Messi and are out there to win, and we teach them you don’t have to win every game. We nurture the kids.
“It’s rewarding seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces watching them playing with the right kit on. Everyone wants to win games, but even when they lose, they are enjoying it.”
The team train on Fridays at Hamstreet Football Club and home matches are on Saturdays.
Hundreds of community and sports groups have benefited from UK Power Networks’ Team Sport Awards since the scheme was set up. Last year alone, 86 teams benefited from a share in £21,500.
James Coster, from the groundworks team at UK Power Networks, secured a £250 grant from his employer UK Power Networks to help equip the new under-9s squad at Hamstreet Youth Football Club, where players recently won the Ashford and District Cup Final.
The power firm’s sports awards encourage staff to volunteer in the community, support grassroots sport, promote healthy living, teamwork and develop sports opportunities.
James, who gives his free time to manage the club, said: “It feels amazing giving back to the local community. The grant was very generous, and the club is delighted with the funding towards new jackets to keep the players warm and dry.
“Our young players are out in the wind and rain and battle through, but we like to protect them. I bought benches for our five subs, who need to keep warm before they play, and now they can wear their jackets and take them on and off as they please. The kids are over the moon.”
Andy Othen, vice-chairman of Hamstreet Youth Football Club, said: “UK Power Networks’ generous donation will allow us to provide training jackets for our under-9s team.
“The team were new this year to the league and under the guidance of James Coster, have settled really well, are playing some attractive football, and I’m really pleased we recently won the Ashford and District Cup Final. Funding such as this goes a long way to ensure our young generation can enjoy outdoor sports and encourages inclusivity to all.”
James’s two sons Frankie and Ralphie play in the club’s under-9s and under-6s teams and are ‘football mad’, supporting rival clubs Arsenal and Chelsea. James said: “The club approached me looking for volunteers, so I’m managing the team and enjoy giving my knowledge and experience to the young players.
“The team is enjoying the football and it’s good for their physical and mental health. It’s not about winning every week. They put their boots on and want to be Ronaldo or Messi and are out there to win, and we teach them you don’t have to win every game. We nurture the kids.
“It’s rewarding seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces watching them playing with the right kit on. Everyone wants to win games, but even when they lose, they are enjoying it.”
The team train on Fridays at Hamstreet Football Club and home matches are on Saturdays.
Hundreds of community and sports groups have benefited from UK Power Networks’ Team Sport Awards since the scheme was set up. Last year alone, 86 teams benefited from a share in £21,500.