A NEW football club in the Gaunless Valley is transforming young people’s lives by keeping them off the streets and helping them into work.
Evenwood United MTAFC (More Than A Football Club) was formed five weeks ago but has already signed up almost three dozen lads and put seven of them into work.
The club was launchedby Gareth McMahon and Jason Ryder. Mr McMahon said the main problem is that young people in Evenwood have nothing to do after they finish school. He added: “These lads are very polite and hard working once given the opportunity and shown a little bit of respect.”
Mr McMahon added that the young lads are exceptionally keen on improving their future and some are finding work off their own bat.
The aim of the club is to keep the youngsters occupied with football, while arranging for qualifications such as Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, which helps the lads find work.
Through Teesdale Action Partnership and Bishop Auckland College, the young people are being enrolled on a variety of training course such as health and safety, food hygiene and even confidence building.
The club also helps members draw up a their CVs. They have also had support from Evenwood and Barony Parish Council who have allowed them to use the Randolph Social Welfare Ground. Mr McMahon said: “Friday night is a main night to keep the lads busy.”
Since it started the club has attracted 34 players. Mr McMahon said: “That is not including the girls. We are looking to form a girls team, so we will have seniors, juniors and girls.”
Mr Ryder, who previously played for Evenwood Town FC, added: “We never thought it would take off so well. The talent around here is unbelievable. Me, Craig, Kevin, Stephen and Gareth want to thank the lads for coming each week.”
The two men are supported by Craig Teasdale and Kevin Porter as well as Stephen Hartley who runs the juniors.
Support from the village has also been welcomed with two full sets of strips being donated and cash given for tracksuits. For more information or to get involved email Mr McMahon at [email protected].
