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Fifty boys and girls took part in the coaching sessions, daily skills challenges and mini soccer matches.  The week was organized by Larne’s Grassroots Development Officer Jonathan Michael.

Speaking about the week Jonathan said: “We have had a great five days at Wellington Rec, we have been lucky with the weather and all the children have been able to take part and enjoy the sessions.  The IFA ‘Nutty Krust’ Summer Soccer Schools have been well received by the children of Larne borough.  The Grassroots Summer programme has been a super way for all children regardless of ability to further develop their skills.  It has been encouraging to see so many children improve throughout the week and I hope to see this continue in the coming football season.”

Jonathan added “I want to thank the football club for their support over the week and for providing such an excellent facility.  I also want to thank my team of IFA qualified coaches who worked so hard throughout the summer.  The team’s enthusiasm and commitment has been amazing, in each session they have challenged every child to reach their full potential as well as making it enjoyable and great credit must go to them.”

Each day the children took part in a skills challenge with the winners meeting in the final on Friday.  Glentoran’s Captain and Umbro Sponsored player Paul Leeman, was present to watch the exciting competition and present the winners with their awards.  Paul said “It is great to see all the children having fun and developing their game this week and from what I have seen today I am impressed with the football talent in Larne.”

The winning finalists were Samuel Dundee, Ryan McNickle and James Wilson.  Rachel Irvine from Kilwaughter was awarded the Umbro Player of the Week award for her hard work and improvement throughout the week.  All children in attendance at the week received an Umbro Football Pack containing at a back pack and a ball along with a Nutty Krust goodie bag which were well received.

For further details and information about the Larne Grassroots Development Programme contact Irish FA Grassroots Development Officer Jonathan Michael on 07841927616 or visit www.larnegrassroots.co.uk