Paul’s Blog
 
Tuesday, 18 December 2007
End of 2007
 
As 2007 draws to a close, we can all look back with immense pride at what has, without doubt, been the greatest year in the Club’s history. We have made unbelievable progress over the past year and gaining FA Charter Standard Development Club status is proof that we have become a major centre of football for not only the district, but the county as a whole. It is absolutely fantastic to have 180 kids aged 5-15 enjoying their football at the Club. The breadth of our football activity is remarkable; as well as being represented in the NABC, Glendale and Rural Fives Leagues we have delivered quality football programmes in Alnwick Middle Schools and Longhoughton First School whilst supporting disability football festivals within the County. No other local club offers so much for the community as a whole. Of course, all this was recognised by the FA when they made us their Northern Region Club of the Year. It would be nice if we could take the national title next year; certainly we’ll be going for it! Our Longhoughton First School football programme was a huge success and the kids loved it, as did the coaches, despite the inevitable challenge posed by the large numbers of youngsters. As Ian Clapcott said; “It was like herding cats!” I am pleased to report, that along with FA Development Officer, Katy Taylor, we have helped Longhoughton First School achieve FA Charter Status which is a great achievement for the school. On the field, our teams are doing extremely well in all of the 3 Leagues in which we compete. It’s tremendous to see the 11 a-side teams competing so effectively in the NABC. As you’ve no doubt seen in Rory Lane’s well crafted match reports, the U-11s managed by Danny Troy are causing quite a stir as they routinely demolish all-comers from more established clubs. I have been privileged to watch John Whittle’s U-15s play in some great fixtures and, seeing the lads grow into young men, I’m reminded of the terrific benefits of giving our teenagers a positive focus as they develop. In the Glendale, Longhoughton teams are setting the standard in several age groups. However, I will single-out the U-12 Spitfires who epitomise the values of sportsmanship and teamwork to which all teams should aspire. Whilst playing to enjoy the game, all the players work exceptionally hard and they were finally rewarded with their first win of the season in a 2-0 thriller against Hedgeley, a tremendous performance on which they can build further. Completing the picture, the Girls have played some lovely football culminating in the U-12 Jewels and the U-14s winning the Autumn League. I can’t believe it was only in February when we started girls’ football and wondered if it would take-off. Of course, we needn’t have worried and the girls’ football has been a real success story. Indeed, managers Carolyn Cass and Nicky Pennington, assisted by Sally Wood, now sit on the Rural Fives League committee which shows outstanding commitment. Naturally, we have only managed to come so far because of the incredible levels of support of the coaches and volunteers who contribute endless hours to make our Club the success it is. Thanks to all the coaches and the volunteers including my better half Pam, Rachel Munday, Diane Troy, Lyn Stevenson, Liz Whittle and all the parents who’ve helped order and sort kit, run the lucrative tuck-shop on 11 a-side match days and assist in the detailed admin that makes the Club function. It was good to see another 4 coaches pass their Level 1 in November. Congratulations to Rachel Smart, ‘Jimmy’ Somerville, Mark Turnball and Darren Juggins. Further, 4 of us brave souls (Rod Munday, Eric Powell, Bob Pattinson and myself) finally got to the end of our gruelling 8 month Level 2 course. The Level 2 was a highly demanding and technical course which has allowed us to achieve Development Status. In amongst the hard graft, there were lighter moments as we chased former Canadian International and Plymouth striker, Jason Bent around the pitch. When asked what Jason looked like, Rod replied; “I don’t know, I’ve only ever seen the back of his head as he sped past me down the line!” Speaking of Rod, solid progress is being made on the Football Facility project and Community Venue for the village. There’s a long way to go and whilst there will no doubt be bumps in the road, I’m sure the Longhoughton Village Development Trust, with our support, will succeed in the end. Thanks to everyone who supported the LVDT village fayre and especially those who supported the Club cake stall which was a major contributor to the £1000 made on the day. Another good fund raiser for the Club was the long awaited Parents v Coaches fixture. Amidst the smell of deep heat, old age and treachery overcame youth and skill with the coaches coming back from the dead (some literally!) miraculously turning a 5-3 deficit at half-time around to emerge 8-6 winners. I won’t gloat but.......we were ACE! Yet again, it demonstrated the tremendous parental support for what we do. On the fundraising note, it is great to see a number of new sponsors coming on board and I will be working with web guru, Susan Francis, on how we can best give them enhanced visibility on our website. Meanwhile, heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors old and new who do a massive amount to keep our costs down and ensure that we can offer football to all. Money is always tight though and to help boost our funds we will again be undertaking sponsored penalties in the New Year which amongst other areas will pay for the buses for the ever popular NUFC trips in the Spring. I’m sure next year will be another amazing year of thrills and spills. Another 4 coaches are embarking on their Level 2 whilst we are always looking for further volunteers (victims?) to get involved and take their Level 1 course – let me know if you are interested. Further, we are planning to expand our 11 a-side teams into additional age groups. Initial plans are for eleven a-side teams at the U11, U12, U-15 and U-16 age groups but it is early days and we will keep you informed. After such a terrific year in all departments, all that remains is to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Thanks for all your outstanding support and we’ll see you next year. Happy days!!! Paul