AFC Rushden & Diamonds are delighted to announce a football for all youth team setup from next season 2012-2013 after developing a partnership with South Rushden Junior Football Club.
Local players will be able to have a clear progression all the way through the age groups to the senior team.
In total there will be 22 youth teams, including girls teams and multi-disability teams.
Acting Chairman Ralph Burditt believes that the deal is vital for the future of football in the local area, “I am delighted that we have been given the opportunity to join together with South Rushden Junior Football Club, a club which is universally well thought of for the high standard of coaching that they provide. From day one, AFC Rushden & Diamonds has stated its commitment to providing football opportunities for local young people and this is the first and most vital step down the road to building a club which serves its community rather than the other way around. As a result of this deal, local youngsters will have a clear road set out before them, down which they can progress from a young age to Under 18s and beyond to senior football – all within the same club. We will be offering football for all abilities as well as all ages, providing a challenging and rewarding development for those who want it, without alienating those who simply wish to play for fun. We will also be able to provide the currently-existing teams with extra volunteers and indeed any other help which they need to support their footballing activities.”
South Rushden Juniors Football Club have been offering football for all within the local community for 10 years and feel the amalgamation fits with their long-term aims and aspirations.
South Rushden Juniors’ David Cockings says “As a club we are committed to offering the children of Rushden and the surrounding area somewhere they can play football at a reasonable cost and benefit from quality coaching. The FA have recognized this and we have been a Charter Standard Club since 2007. Our meetings with AFC Rushden & Diamonds have been very positive and we have so many aims in common that amalgamating the two club’s talents and abilities is the right thing to do.”
