Prize guys earn Hampden training session with John Collins

Nov 21 2011 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

A TALENTED pair of young footballers were given the VIP treatment when they were invited to the Bank of Scotland Midnight League Player of the Year day at Hampden.

Renfrew lads John Hendrie and Regan Dunachie were part of a 25-strong contingent from all over Scotland who enjoyed a day to remember.

They were given a tour of Hampden and also took part in a training session led by former Hibernian and Celtic star John Collins.

The Player of the Year day formed part of this year’s Bank of Scotland Midnight League programme, which has been running since January at venues across all 32 council areas in Scotland.

As people who have shown maturity and respect to others, as well as adhering to the positive lifestyle habits displayed by the Scottish Football Association coaches, Regan and John were chosen as Renfrewshire’s players of the year.

Pauline Phillips, from Bank of Scotland’s Renfrew branch, said: “Congratulations go to Regan and John on being recognised as the region’s players of the year.

“Bank of Scotland is proud to continue its support for the Midnight League, which consistently delivers a first class diversionary programme for young people across Scotland.”

Donald Gillies, SFA ‘Cashback’ National Project Manager, added: “Both Regan and John should be extremely proud of themselves – they are trying to make the most of their potential as football players and as people.

“They responded well to John Collins’ training session and we all thoroughly appreciated the experience and professionalism that John brought to the Bank of Scotland Midnight League Player of the Year day.”

The Bank of Scotland Midnight League is a national network of diversionary five-a-side football activities which target youngsters aged between 12 and 16.

Run in partnership with the SFA and supported by the Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities programme, the Midnight League programme has expanded over the last five years to be established in all 32 Scottish local authorities, with over 3,000 young people participating across over 90 venues each year.

A recent research study by the University of Stirling into the wider social effects and benefit of the programme returned some very positive observations.

More than 85 per cent of respondents believe that the Midnight League has had a positive effect on their local community.

And instances of anti-social behaviour have dropped by as much as 30 per cent in some local authority areas when the leagues are in session, with 22 per cent of people who were surveyed admitting they ‘might be getting into trouble’ if they were not playing at their local Midnight League.

The programme has also been credited with helping to break down social barriers between attendees and local police.

Positive effects on youngsters were also noted as a major benefit, with over 70 per cent of respondents stating they enjoy improved self-confidence and esteem as a result of participation and almost 80 per cent feeling fitter and healthier.