Ramsgate extends coaching to younger ladies

The creation of the new Ramsgate Ladies team has certainly generated a whole lot of interest, and the Southwood Stadium club has been approached by a number of younger girls who are also interested in taking up the ‘more beautiful game’, which is officially the biggest girls’ and women’s sport in England.

Sarah Watkiss, Ramsgate’s Women’s Football Officer and Ladies’ team manager, explains: "Up to now I have concentrated on establishing the Ladies’ side, which involves girls who are 15 years of age or older, however I always hoped that we would also be able to put something in place for younger players to fill the gap between mini-soccer and the adult game."

"The ‘taster’ sessions I am organising are intended to literally give girls a taste of what it is about - it is not necessary to have played before, just to have an interest in the game and a willingness to learn and develop the skills to become part of a team."

"The most important thing is a good attitude. It is intended that these sessions this will lead to more formalised coaching sessions on all aspects of the game, helping girls to improve and reach their potential, as well as to create a structure of teams that cover all age groups from under 11s to under 16s, with a view to entering some tournaments in the summer as well as local girls’ leagues next season."

"This is a very exciting opportunity for women’s and girls’ football development in the local area, and our hope is to prevent Thanet losing talent to clubs outside of the area."