League in grant boost

FOOTBALL; OLDHAM-based Junior Soccer League 4v4 has been handed a grant of more than £6,000 by Sport England.

Founder Kevin Dunkerley, who established the competition last summer, believes youngsters learn more from playing four-a-side.

Several tournaments using such a format have proved a hit for JSL, and Sport England have expressed their wish for more people to try it out.

Pam Jervis, Sport England’s regional lead for the North West, said: “The opportunity to try a new sport for the first time is often all a person needs to catch the sporting bug.

“The JSL 4v4 junior football development project is a great way for young children to play football and have a quality sporting experience that will encourage them to stay involved.”

The grant comes hot on the heels of JSL’s FA Charter Standard club recognition.

Dunkerley said: “The money will go towards facility hire, equipment, coach education and refereeing courses. “I have now been able to take on six more coaches, who are taking the necessary courses, and two new referees.

“Sport England showed their support by awarding our league a significant grant to allow for the continuation of progress made in our first nine months.

JSL are on the look-out for children aged five to 11 years to create new 4v4 teams.

For more information call Dunkerley on 07973 814675 or visit www.juniorsoccerleague.net