A fast-growing Suffolk football club has hosted its biggest ever sporting event - having gone from having no girls football teams to six in the space of just 18 months.
Hundreds attended Capel Plough FC’s junior presentation day on Saturday, celebrating the success of the players and the huge strides the club is making in girls’ football.
Councillor Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills and his partner Babergh councillor Jennie Jenkins were guests of honour at the event - handing out medals to the players.
Youngsters were entertained by bouncy castles, lots of food and drink and the chance to go head-to-head with teams of parents.
The club, in Capel St Mary just south of Ipswich, has gone from strength to strength over the past 18 months, launching six girls team for all ages.
Since then, membership has soared, boosted by free taster sessions and open days.
On Saturday, April 31, MP James Cartlidge officially opened a new FA Girls’ Wildcats football centre at the club, offering the chance for young women to play the beautiful game in an environment created just for girls.
Speaking after Saturday’s medal presentations, Mr Jones said: “It was great to see so many local youngsters enjoying and playing football on the community pitches, and I’m sure the Capel Plough FC will go from strength to strength, especially now the Girls teams are so well established.”
Ms Jenkins added: “It was a privilege to be invited to the Junior Presentation Day at Capel and witness so many enthusiastic young people playing football, being cheered on by their siblings and their parents.”
One of Capel Plough FC’s Kraken U15s players, Aimee Collins, said: “It’s the only time of year when my team has the opportunity to play a football match against our parents.
“I just love winning against my dad. It’s also great to meet again Carol from McDonald’s who sponsors my team.
“I am now thinking about being a business woman like her as a career if I don’t become a professional footballer.
“Today has been great day.”
The FA Girls’ Wildcats football centre is open at Capel St Mary playing fields every Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am.
For more information email wildcats@capelploughfc.co.uk
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