Kids beat the weather

A cool, wet mid-summer's day failed to dampen the spirit and enthusiasm of the youngsters who participated in Derry Hill United's annual "Friendly Festival".

Eighteen teams, aged 7-9,from across Mid-Wiltshire took part in the event demonstrating their skills and joy of playing the game.

The event offers a unique opportunity for players and their coaches to get together and challenge themselves against teams of a similar standard.

Alan Crocker, Chair of Derry Hill United said "This is a great format which allows players of all abilities to participate, enjoy themselves and improve their football skills. If one side is significantly stronger than another we encourage coaches to challenge their players by inviting the opposition to field an additional player.”

Adrian Gingell, Festival Director comments “For some of our youngest players this is the first experience of such an event. The Festival ethos is all about playing for enjoyment with no concern about scores or results.
It is evident that the hard work organising the Festival pays off when you see the fun the children are having.”

Shauna Bodman, Councillor for Calne Without and Barry Stephens, Football Development Officer for the Wiltshire FA presented medals to all those who took part.

Barry said “We want children to enjoy coming to football, to want to be there week in week out, and that means they need to have fun. It’s evident that Derry Hill’s Festival provides them with a real opportunity to do so.”