Soccer Camp Rewards Good Behaviour
Youngsters from Cardiff, Merthyr, the Vale and Bridgend were treated to expert coaching at the Ian St John Soccer Academy, thanks to support from South Wales Police and Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd (Wales and the West).
The young participants were selected by South Wales Police Community Support Officer’s who are responsible for the work the force undertakes in schools and local communities. The individuals were selected for good conduct within their community.
Chief Inspector of Communities in Partnership, Clive Perry, explained,
‘This is such a worthwhile initiative. Young people so often get criticised by their community, but when they get given a chance like this they prove they can be well behaved.
This partnership with Coca Cola and the IanSt JohnSoccerSchool provides an excellent tool to engage with children within their local area and to encourage the reduction of anti-social behaviour within communities.’
The lucky youngsters were provided with a week of training from some top flight coaches, kit, transport, food and drink all courtesy of Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd (Wales and the West).
Gerry Stacey, Regional Director of Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd (Wales and the West) said,
‘We are delighted to support this project as it is a fantastic opportunity for youngsters to experience great coaching and team work. It is a really important step to help them respect and have pride in their schools and community.’
Police officers from the Communities Division of the four participating regions have been in attendance to see how the project has been helping the youngsters from their area. Following the course they will then monitor behaviour to judge the true benefit of the project long-term.
Course coach, Ian St John explained the immediate benefits,
‘The course encourages the kids to respect each other, integrate and play together. It also gives them the opportunity to do something different with their school holidays, receive first class coaching and the use of excellent facilities.’
For further information, please contact Nia Butler on 02920 494963
Safer Bridgend would like to thank the PCSOs and Partners who helped make the day possible.
We also would also like to thank Tesco`s for supporting the event and providing vouchers which allowed the purchase of water, health bars and fruit.
Thank you to Youth Works and Ynysawdre Comprehensive school who allowed the use of their mini buses and Positive Futures wildmill for assisting in driving the mini buses.
Without these agencies working together this Football week would not have been possible for the youngsters.
