Faversham provide local kids a platform

Ray Turner is hunting for the next generation of Faversham Town stars with trials for the club's new under-18 team – article courtesy of www.favershamtownfc.co.uk


Youth development officer Ray was celebrating this week when soccer chiefs rubber-stamped Faversham Town's application for a place in the Kent Youth League next season.

Now he is looking forward to building an exciting young side full of players that can go on and make a name for themselves at senior level.

The first youth team trials take place between 10am and 1pm at Salters Lane on Sunday and firefighter Ray cannot wait to get started.

Ray, whose hard work has already won the club FA Adult Charter Standard status, said: "I feel very passionately about this next stage of the re-born club's development.

"If we are to see a first team full of local talent then we must have a true link between the local junior clubs and the senior side.

"This under-18 side gives us that link, giving capable players a chance to parade their skills on an appropriate stage.

"The first-team manager Terry Cordice has said if you are good enough, you are old enough so who knows how quickly we might see these youngsters make the step up."

Ray said the formation of the club's new youth team was a dream come true for a committee desperate to see players come through the ranks.

He said: "The people behind the new Faversham Town started out with a very clear goal and that was to provide a platform for the youth of the town.

"Well, they have been true to their word and now young talent in the town can have no excuse. The stage is set - we want them training at Salters Lane.

"Local players have been starved of the opportunity to play football at this level for some considerable time. It's certainly not going to be easy for them but I am looking for players with the right attitude who can rise to this challenge."

Yet Ray explained that he was keen not to heap too much pressure on the new side, especially in the early days.

He said: "My emphasis will be on player development not just results. I urge local people to come out in force to support this team while showing a degree of patience with them all.

"I want all my players to play with freedom, without the pressure of results, knowing full well that their long-term development is my priority.

"This is, without doubt, an exciting time for football in Faversham and I urge all young players who think they can  meet this challenge to come forward and train with us.

"Give us a go and we will offer real opportunities - this club can match your ambitions."

For more information on the trials, call Ray on 07709 395001.