Football fever continues in Doncaster with Game On.
Game On, the football focused programme which has made a real and lasting difference to young people living in some of the most deprived areas of Doncaster, will continue for a second year thanks to a partnership between the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Club Doncaster Foundation.Through funding granted by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Club Doncaster Foundation will continue to provide children and young people aged between 8 and 16 years old with the opportunity to get involved in organised football sessions, play in tournaments and gain new skills.
Last year we engaged with over 50 young people who would typically find it difficult to access sports clubs, delivering 2 sessions per week at Dearne Valley Leisure Centre on Wednesday and Saturday evenings.
Marie Hepburn, Community Manager comments: “Our first year delivering Game On in Doncaster has proven to be extremely popular with young people from the community, as well as adults and local organisations who have seen a positive impact as a result of the activity.
“Game On is a fantastic programme, the numbers that turn out every single week whatever the weather just proves that it works, not only for those involved, but for the whole community. We are thrilled to be delivering Game On for a second year.”
As well as improving their health, the young people will develop their football skills through professional coaching, they will meet new people and build new friendships, have the opportunity to embark on sports leaders courses and play against other football clubs in coalfield communities.
Head of Operations at the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Andy Lock said: “Over the past year Game On has engaged with many children and young people from across Doncaster. I’ve seen first-hand the difference the programme makes to young people living in coalfield communities.
"Many struggle to engage with after school activities but Game On is accessible, fun and the coaching teams build really positive relationships with them.
“We’re extremely pleased to be working with Club Doncaster Foundation once again. Our partnership is extremely effective at targeting those young people who will benefit most from the programme.’’
Year 2 of the programme kicked off with a qualifying tournament at the Keepmoat Stadium for the Home International Trophy in Wales. Teams from Hartlepool, Derby, Wigan, Barnsley, Rotherham and, of course, Doncaster went head to head in a league tournament organised by Club Doncaster Foundation. Wigan, who won overall and join Rotherham as runners up to represent England at the Home International Tournament.
To get involved in Game On at Dearne Valley Leisure Centre, turn up on the night or call 01302 764664 for more info.
Wednesday: 6:30pm – 8pm
Friday: 7pm – 8:30pm
The Game On sessions in Dearne are part of the Doncaster wide youth engagement sessions delivered as part of Doncaster Kicks. Evening sports sessions are also available in Balby, Hexthorpe, Wheatley, Intake, Hyde Park, Edlington, Thorne, Moorends and Bentley. Contact 01302 764663 for info on how to get involved.