Do you want to make people’s life’s better? Help young people build confidence and develop new friendships? 

If the answer is yes, you should get involved with grassroots football. 

I have been involved in coaching for two years and can happily say it was one of the best decisions I have made.  

I did not know what to expect and was a bit apprehensive about giving it ago. There was no need to worry The New Tupton Ivanhoe coaches are a supportive bunch, and the club sorted all the paperwork and paid for the F.A.’s Introduction to Football course. 

Michelle Briddon, U7’s team coach, got involved when her son joined the club. 

“I loved the set up and the family vibe and not long after I saw a post asking for new coaches and I went from there. I’d always been put off coaching due to overbearing parents and the stresses that come with running a team, but the club are so supportive that my job is purely to coach and the kids are an absolute joy.” 

Michelle continued “I couldn’t imagine not coaching now and I’m looking forward to being able to progress. As a female coach in a male dominated environment, the club have been nothing but supportive.” 

Coaching is about helping players develop their skills and improve whatever their starting ability.   One of my highlights was celebrating a draw with the team after they had lost every game until that point! To those players it was like winning the F.A. Cup final.  The team has now developed and grown, and they won their league last season. 

Antony Maidens, U11’s manager got involved due to his son wanting to play football. 

Antony said “4.5 years later I can honestly say it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Helping the kids grow as both players and people whilst most importantly having fun.” 

Former player, Dave Martin was approached to return to the club in 2011- 12 to manage the first team. He said, “It was a no brainer; this club is everything to me.” 

The club is about so much more than football. You will create friendships, support the local community, contribute to local events, and be helping to develop an excellent grassroots level facility for all to use. 

Antony added “You make so many friends within the club with both the other coaches and parents.” 

Being a coach does take a commitment but the smiles on those young people’s faces and watching them develop is one of the most rewarding things in the world. 

Still thinking should I get involved? Well Antony sums it up perfectly “People outside of grassroots football always ask, “why do you do it?” His response “do it for a week and you’ll understand why.” 

If you would be interested in coaching please contact Dave Hoult, Club Secretary on 07759048037