FOOTBALL is set to get bigger and better for youngsters in the South Cheshire Youth League.
While one exciting season in the 27-year-old competition has ended, organisers are already looking ahead to 2005-06. More teams than ever have signed up in a bid for the glory that Gist Falcons U14s, Team Bentley U11s and Wistaston Tigers U13s enjoyed last term.
From U11s-U18s, the competition is expected to be as fierce as always, while the standard of play will be high.
Secretary Dave Brooks said: 'The season just gone was exciting at all levels and each age group was keenly contested. No team really dominated any section, underlining the quality of competition.
'With a larger amount of teams than ever before scheduled to take part next season it promises to be a better campaign than ever. The standard of play seems to be improving with every season that goes by, which bodes well for the game in this area.
'Hopefully these opportunities that the children receive will help them increase their sense of fair play, sportsmanship, teamwork and progress as footballers.
'It is the league's ambition that its members will still be playing and enjoying football in 40 years time.'
The league, founded by Wilf Saunders in 1978, aims to provide fun, enjoyable games for a variety of ages and abilities. It relies on the devotion of parents and coaches who give up their time to supervise training, drive the team and even wash the kits.
Scouts from professional clubs often descend on matches to pick up the latest talent, and many players have gone on to play semi-professional and professional football.
Now new teams are being invited to enter the league. Mr Brooks said: 'We are looking for more teams to join us at any age group. The season starts on September 11.
'The league will arrange a pitch, fixtures and referees and pay for your personal accident insurance.'
Crewe Shooters U12 won the Fair Play Award for their age group for the second-year running, at a South Cheshire Youth League presentation evening last week.
For a league brochure contact Dave Brooks on 0870 8812553, or e-mail admin@scyl.co.uk, or visit www.scyl.co.uk for details.
