Kevin backs youth revamp

Photo: PICTURE: VINCENT BROWN.

Kevin Dunkerley

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FOOTBALL:

JUNIOR coach Kevin Dunkerley has spoken of his relief at the Football Association’s vote in favour of a revamp of the youth game.

Almost 90 per cent of the 778 votes cast were in favour of fewer players on each side — with a greater emphasis on skill and the use of smaller pitches and goals.

Oldham-based Dunkerley set up the Junior Soccer League (JSL) at Failsworth Soccer Centre 18 months ago and, since its rise in popularity, has introduced a four-a-side spin-off.

He said: “I have been an advocate of having fewer players on each team and it is a big relief to see this vote go through.

“This decision is long overdue and a huge step in the right direction. What is important now is that people have patience — it is, going to take a generation to see the fruits of our labour.

Nick Levett, national development manager for the FA, said the changes were part of a long–term plan that should lead to benefits all the way up to England level.

Levett admitted there would need to be an education process to stop parents and coaches pushing a win at all costs attitude for youth football.

"We want there to be less pressure on kids," he said. "There needs to be a climate change. This is kids' football, not the World Cup final."

The changes will be phased in for the 2014/15 season.



NORTH Chadderton Year 11s held their nerve to beat Crompton House 6-5 on penalties in the Oldham Schools League finals at Boundary Park. The match finished 2-2, with Dane Mansfield and Elliot Chadderton on target for North Chadderton. See team picture.



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