Newton Aycliffe Youth FC celebrate 30 years of successfully developing young footballers as an FA Charter Standard Community Club.
The club was established in 1989 by a group of enthusiastic parents setting up a single boy’s team to play in the Teesside Junior Football Alliance.
It has grown in those 30 years but the approach to football and the club ideals have not.
The club have received FA Local and Regional recognition for the work their coaches have done over many years, with many awards.
“But our main award has been the hundreds of boys and girls who have enjoyed learning the game and playing football each season, some of whom have gone on to play professional football,” says secretary Berni Borsberry.
To celebrate the 30 years, the club will have a Marathon weekend of football, all in aid of local charities.
All 22 boys, girls, women and men’s teams will play opposition from across the County, over the weekend of August 31 and September 1, at the Oakleaf Sports Complex.
One of the highlights will be their Under 23’s men’s team v Coaches and ex-players, who will be managed by former chairman Joe Blackett (on Saturday, 1.30pm kick-off).
“Reaching this milestone is a superb achievement,” adds Berni.
“The committee were determined to mark this event and they have worked hard to get this weekend arranged.
“Added to this, local charities will benefit from any money we raise. We hope to organise more events throughout the season, to make this a memorable year.”