New U18 football club in strath looking for players

The professional football season may have just come to an end but the local grassroots game is just kicking into action.

A new under 18s team has recently been launched to fill a gap in the game in Badenoch and Strathspey.

Spey Valley Under 18s FC hope to play their matches at Cromdale but the club is looking to recruit players from across Badenoch and Strathspey.

With a venue and great new kit in place, the club hopes to find more youngsters to fill the shirts.

Head coach Paul Phillips told the Strathy: "We are affiliated with Scottish Youth Football Association so we are now established as a football club and we are looking for any kids born after January 1, 2004 to play in the league.

"But we are open to all youngsters in and around that age to get involved. The gap in the 16 to 18 years football locally has been neglected for far too long.

"We want to get kids playing football again – we do not mind what standard they are providing they are turning up regularly and showing the effort."

The club is in the process of applying to join the Highland Youth League at under 18 level and, if all goes well, Spey Valley U18s debut season will get under way in August.

The opposition will mainly comprise Highland League sides' under 18 teams.

Mr Phillips said: "The potential is that the side will be playing on Highland League parks and against a very good standard of young sides.

"I had to opportunity to do this as a youngster and it is something we are keen to provide again as there is now no under 18 side run locally.

"We are looking for players from across the entire strath. We are needing a commitment from the kids and any parents interested in helping out - we'd love to hear from them."

There are three registered coaches assisting Mr Phillips – Gary Moir, Gordon Peters and Jim Halloran.

The head coach said: "They are guys with good experience of playing and knowledge of the game. They are really enthusiastic and motivated for the players and the club to do well."

The club is currently training on a Tuesday night in Aviemore at the 4G pitch by the community centre from 6pm to 8pm and everyone is welcome.

Training has also been taking place in Grantown on Wednesday evenings but the club is looking to work with young players and parents to find the best night for their commitment.

Mr Phillips said: "We have kit for up to 30 kids. We really want to make this work. It is a safe and friendly environment where kids can thrive."

Grantown-based Lodge Craigellachie members made a very welcome donation to help buy the home strips and bus giant Stagecoach is funding the away kit.

Find out more information here on how to get involved or email speyvalleyu18s@yahoo.com

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