It’s good to be back!
Four decades ago, CACL Sports Coaching started with ten children at the pitch then known as Meads field. Since then the coaching organisation has coached over 5,000 children in various sports, albeit mainly in football and gymnastics.
“We are proud to have coached so many local footballers,” said Chris Pinch, Director of CACL.
“It was very nostalgic to be returning, the walled field has always had a great ambience and when you are young it is like playing in your own stadium. So many current CACL coaches and parents have spoken of playing there, particularly in Collins Cup Finals and the ESFA Primary Schools competitions.
“This occasion though was vastly different – a far cry from our normal sessions! The Covid-19 regulations meant we had to increase our training hours by 60 per cent as only one coach can take five children. In addition, we had to make sure that our young players sanitised their hands, that we had 2m distance signs around the wall and that the balls were sprayed with antiseptic sprays after each session. Also, as a precaution our coaches wore surgical gloves to prevent any contamination; this will, for a period, be the norm but at least our young footballers can train again and take part in football skills.
“We cannot wait until the FA gives the go-ahead to play small-sided games, which after all is what it is all about.”
To enhance the enjoyment of the sessions, CACL provided 16 goals of different shapes and sizes, in addition to speed and agility equipment, fast feet ladders and target apparatus.
“The players, with a ball each, concentrated on dribbling skills and close control incorporating turning, fast footwork and shooting.”