The Scottish FA’s East Dunbartonshire Summer Programme is about to get into full swing.
For lead organiser Kevin Murphy, Scottish FA football development officer for the area, the series of activities are set to prove the perfect antidote to summer holiday boredom.
“This year we have added some new venues across the region to make sure there are as many opportunities for young people to attend activities as possible,” said Kevin.
New venues such as Bearsden and Bishopbriggs Academies will host fun-filled football sessions for ages three up to 17.
Kevin, who has been at the Scottish FA since September and holds a Uefa B coaching licence, added: “There will be a week of activity every week in every area of East Dumbartonshire.
“We want the activities to be easy to get to and accessible to everyone.”
The programme offers a vast array of football opportunities – girls’ camps, goalkeepers and children with additional support needs are all catered for.
“It is important that football is inclusive for everyone, no matter your background.”
Kevin revealed that the summer programme proved so popular with attendees, last year parents often travelled from venue to venue to ensure their child had a full footballing summer experience.
“It shows you just how popular the programme is,” he added.
Grassroots football in East Dumbartonshire is thriving.
Kevin said his team offer the Scottish FA School programme in all but three of the local authority’s primary schools.
He added: “For one of the smaller local authorities, we punch above our weight in terms of attendance at our programmes.”
What is the former Motherwell coach hoping to get out of this season’s events?
“I hope we can get as many young people as possible to come along and that the programme is viewed as one of the best ways for them to enjoy the summer holidays,” he said.
If you would like your child to attend, please fill in the attached form and send to Kirkintilloch Sports Centre, Woodhead Park, Kirkintilloch,G66 3DD.