09 June 2009
The ‘Football in the Community’ scheme is free and is open to all children between the ages of 11 and 14 years old. Children are invited to come by themselves or with a team of friends to the venue at Greenfields, La Grande Route De St Martin, to enjoy a game of outdoor 5-aside football. The first session will take place on Wednesday the 24th of June, with sessions every Wednesday between 6.30pm and 7.30pm from then on.
Housing and Education, Sport and Culture have been working closely with residents’ groups from some of Jersey’s larger estates to launch this new initiative which is aimed at getting youths off the streets and onto the football field.
‘Football in the Community’ is designed to encourage young people to do something constructive rather than causing trouble on the estates – an issue which residents have recently been facing.
The initiative was originally thought of by staff members from both Departments and Frank Tyrell, a Clos Gosset resident. He had approached the Elim Oasis Community Centre about holding indoor football matches there. However it was felt that an outdoor facility would be more appropriate for the summer months.
It is hoped that during the winter months the scheme can continue in indoor venues such as community centres and youth clubs. There are also plans to incorporate this scheme with an initiative to reward youths for being good community role models in the future.
For further information on the "Football in the Community" initiative please contact:
Dave Kennedy, Community Development Officer (Education, Sport & Culture): 449787
Sandra Viveiros or Graeme Fitchett, Housing Department: 449009
gov.je