IT HAS been a great season so far for the Alvechurch youth section – with the potential for more to smile about in the remainder of the campaign.
The 15 teams have all performed admirably, including the U17s who are currently third in their division, just two points behind leaders Hampton. They are also in the hunt for the County Cup after beating Tipton Town 4-2 in the third round.
The U16s are second in their division, six points behind leaders Hednesford with two games in hand.
There are two U11 teams who score goals for fun, netting more than 100 goals between them this season so far. One team won the Autumn competition, narrowly overcoming local rivals Redditch on goal difference, and are also in pole position in the Winter League, three points clear of Maypole in second place.
The U10s won their Autumn League, posting some impressive scorelines such as a 10-1 victory against Coldland Colts and 7-1 against Harborne.
Both U9 teams have had some great results, with one team winning their Autumn Cup, including an exciting 3-2 victory against Marston Green in the deciding fixture.
There are four highly enthusiastic U8s and U7 teams, one of whom was narrowly defeated in an Autumn Cup final.
Alvechurch Youth have secured the services of Brad Jefferies, currently a University of Birmingham student and working towards his UEFA B Licence this summer. He is supporting coaches across all age groups, bringing fresh ideas to sessions, and also delivered specialist goalkeeper training earlier this season.
Alvechurch are also busily planning a high-profile club day at Birmingham City’s St Andrew’s Stadium on Monday, May 28 which will give all youth section players the exclusive opportunity to experience professional facilities.
Pete Gwilliam, chairman of the youth section, said: “This winter has seen us lose more fixtures so far than in any of the previous seasons I’ve been involved and that makes it especially pleasing to see the coaches and volunteers getting rewarded for their tireless efforts with progress on the pitch, especially given I know that postponed fixtures throws more work their way.”
Welfare officer Dave Ruston added: “We do put enjoyment at the front and centre of all our age groups, but of course winning games and trophies gives everyone a boost. Right now our biggest win would be to improve the pitches and facilities.”
