Saltdean youngsters kitted out for success
A promising youth side at Saltdean United Football Club has netted a second grant for new kit to kick-off their next match in style, thanks to a proud volunteer.
UK Power Networks’ field engineer, Ricky Manthorpe, nominated the under-8s team for his employer’s £250 Team Sport Award towards the cost of new kit. The scheme is run by UK Power Networks to encourage staff to volunteer in the community and is aimed at promoting healthy living, teamwork and developing sports opportunities.
Ricky’s son and nephew play for the team and he volunteers as coach and occasionally steps in as manager when required.
He said: “The support from my employer has been amazing, everyone appreciates it, and we all turn up looking smart in the same clothes, almost like a team of mini professionals.
“Last year we put the money towards new training tops and jackets, so they are warm and ready to play. This year we are going to also purchase thicker winter jackets because last winter was a bit cold for six to seven year olds.
“All of the kids attend the same school, so it’s a very close team and one we are very proud of. They are a good team. They are very young but there is a lot of potential in the players, and I may be biased, but I don’t think we have played a team better than us. They are developing and improving, but most importantly enjoying themselves with their mates.”
The team train on Saturdays and play matches Sundays at Saltdean United Football Club.
Ricky says watching the team play is a highlight of the week. He said: “So many people talk about how they missed out on seeing their children grow up, which is something I’m determined not to do. I want to make sure I’m there seeing their development. I want them to go out there and try their best, win a few games and have fun.”
UK Power Networks’ field engineer, Ricky Manthorpe, nominated the under-8s team for his employer’s £250 Team Sport Award towards the cost of new kit. The scheme is run by UK Power Networks to encourage staff to volunteer in the community and is aimed at promoting healthy living, teamwork and developing sports opportunities.
Ricky’s son and nephew play for the team and he volunteers as coach and occasionally steps in as manager when required.
He said: “The support from my employer has been amazing, everyone appreciates it, and we all turn up looking smart in the same clothes, almost like a team of mini professionals.
“Last year we put the money towards new training tops and jackets, so they are warm and ready to play. This year we are going to also purchase thicker winter jackets because last winter was a bit cold for six to seven year olds.
“All of the kids attend the same school, so it’s a very close team and one we are very proud of. They are a good team. They are very young but there is a lot of potential in the players, and I may be biased, but I don’t think we have played a team better than us. They are developing and improving, but most importantly enjoying themselves with their mates.”
The team train on Saturdays and play matches Sundays at Saltdean United Football Club.
Ricky says watching the team play is a highlight of the week. He said: “So many people talk about how they missed out on seeing their children grow up, which is something I’m determined not to do. I want to make sure I’m there seeing their development. I want them to go out there and try their best, win a few games and have fun.”