AFTER being closed since the start of lockdown, some six months ago, Stalybridge Celtic Juniors are to reopen their popular Saturday soccer school on September 12.
The soccer school has been a part of the community in Stalybridge and Tameside for 20 years. The grassroots club’s base on Mossley Road has survived flooding, vandalism and a clubhouse fire, but never before had been forced to close for such a long period of time.
The junior club has always bounced back better and stronger from the obstacles it has faced. Coronavirus has brought about their biggest challenge yet, but the volunteer run club is delighted to open again and provide football for children of all abilities.
Chairman Mike Taylor said: “The soccer school is the beating heart of the club. We have more 120 players attending on busy weekends and what our volunteers do on a Saturday morning means we have always stayed true to the club motto of ‘no child turned away’.
“The soccer school is also a pathway to join existing teams and where new ones are formed.
“To be without the soccer school for six months has meant we’ve missed out on so many opportunities to develop players and bring new teams together, especially at the Under-6s age who would normally begin their grassroots football journey at the soccer school.
“It has also meant we’ve lost six months of revenue which has been a big blow to us. We’ve made it through this difficult time, though, and I’m delighted that we are back. I can’t wait to open the gates on September 12 and welcome players new and old back to Celtic Juniors.”
The soccer school is open to boys and girls between the age of four and 12 of all abilities and provides football practice in a fun and safe environment with FA qualified coaches. The new session times are:
10.30am-11.30am: reception, years 1,2
11am-noon: years 3, 4, 5, 6+
The club has implemented changes, both planned and because of Covid-19, one of which is that all players must register in advance. If you would like to attend the soccer school, read the update and register at stalybridgecelticjuniors.com