Teams unite for community league

BIG kick-off . . . players gather for the start of the new community football league

THE beautiful game is helping to unite Oldhamers — and footballing talent could be uncovered in the process.

A joint scheme between Threshold, Oldham Athletic Community Trust, Manchester Methodist Housing Association and the Manchester FA has set up a community football league in Oldham.

Based at Failsworth Soccer Centre, it’s hoped the league will bring people together and promote understanding of the different services provided in the borough.

Since the pilot day involving Latics striker Matt Wolfenden last August, a lot of hard work has gone into getting the project kicked-off.

The winners of the launch day were English Churches Housing Group in a competition which included teams from Keyring, Vulnerable Adults and Threshold.

The first season began earlier this month with 10 teams but it’s hoped numbers will increase and possibly spread across Greater Manchester.

Players are able to take part in coaching and refereeing courses. Those who show promise are encouraged to move on to play in mainstream leagues. Once established, the league will develop into a community event, holding basic skills classes and healthy eating sessions so that anyone can come along to matchdays and get something out of it.

Lee Wilds, of Threshold, said: “We hope to see the league grow in numbers and importance over time.

“We already have the full support of the Manchester FA and Oldham Athletic.

“There currently is no such inclusive, wide-reaching event that would bring so many people together so frequently so we really hope to start something that will change the way services work together in one borough for the better.

“Ultimately, how big and successful the Oldham Community League becomes will be down to the hard work of those taking part so we hope everyone can see the value and potential of what we are trying to achieve.”

James Mwale, Oldham Athletic Community Trust’s inclusion co-ordinator, added: “Oldham Athletic is fully behind this initiative and sees the importance for the provision of inclusive football activities within the borough.”

Anyone interested in entering a team can contact Lee Wilds on 07901-507 698.