Name change looks to the future of ‘football for all’

Jun 11 2009 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

ST Mirren Football Club Boys Club launched a new image at their annual Celebration of Football Awards Evening in Johnstone Town Hall.

A more inclusive name of St Mirren Youth Football Club has been adopted, in keeping with the club ethos Football For Al’.

A new badge was unveiled with a new motto which says: Forging, Changing, Building and Creating – all in honour of the club’s roots, whilst looking to the future.

Team squads from the Under-8s through to Under-17s were piped in by Taylor Walton in celebration of season 2008-2009.

At the event were Radio Clyde Super Scoreboard commentator Bob Smith, who was MC for the night, distinguished guests included Councillor Derek Mackay, leader of Renfrewshire Council, the famous football talent scout Bobbie Dinnie MBE and St Mirren legend Tony Fitzpatrick.

They all helped hand out awards while members’ families and friendswere entertained by Scotland’s Keepy-Uppy Champion, Graeme Lightbody.

Also present were Councillor Eddie Devine and defender Marc McAusland from St Mirren FC.

Club secretary and Under-11s coach, Frank Sweeney said: “The event went very well and everyone from the players to families and friends had a ball.

“We’d encourage more people to get into football, young people can come and play, older folks can coach or organise. Everyone is welcome, if you love football, you’ll love St Mirren Youth Football Club."

Saints legend Tony Fitzpatrick, said: “It was great to be among so many positive young people, as well as my old mentor Bobby Dinnie, who is still working hard finding talented players into his 70s.”

Councillor Derek Mackay said “Well done. The club has great support from families. It was a pleasure to be there.”

And proving the night was not all glamour and glitz, the club announced that they are the latest to be accredited with the Scottish FA’s Quality Mark award.

Squads are coached locally in Renfrewshire, playing Fun Fours, Soccer Sevens, 11-a-side development and 11-a-side competitive football.

The Club look forward to season 2009-2010, which they plan to kick-off at an Open Day at Jenny’s Well Playing Field on Sunday, August 16.

All club coaches are SFA qualified and Disclosure Scotland checked.

Anyone interested in playing, coaching or volunteering in a quality youth football club, can visit their website www.stmirrenyfc.org.uk