Lancing kids invited to play at Albion training ground
The BHAFC Foundation invited dozens of local families to take part in a free afternoon of football activities last Friday (August 2).
Around 70 young people aged 5-16 joined the event – which was held exclusively for families living in Lancing – at the club’s American Express Elite Football Performance Centre.
Activities on offer included football shooting drills, blind and amputee football sessions, small-sided games, and the chance to try out the Foundation’s mini robots from their Soccer STEM programme.
BHAFC Foundation coaches ran the activities with help from young Albion Under-21 players Harry Lee, Ruairi McConville, and Remiero Moulton.
Ruairi McConville, a defender who has represented Northern Ireland at Under-21 level, said: “The three of us have been getting involved today, helping to run the drills and getting involved with their games.
“The kids have got loads of questions for us, so it’s nice to chat to them. They see us as role models so it’s great to get out and help them learn something, as well as giving something back to people from the local area.”
Paul Mullen, Chief Operating Officer at the Albion, spoke of the club’s desire to connect with local people.
“We’re an established part of the community here in Lancing, and it’s really important that we showcase the facilities that we’ve got and give opportunities to the children of people who live and work here,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to open the doors, to let people come and see the facilities and enjoy our activities. You never know, we might even find some gems that eventually end up in our academy.”
Mark Pedrick, who heads up the BHAFC Foundation’s football pathway programme, said: “This was a really exciting opportunity for local people to come and see what we’re all about and have a fun evening.
“It’s a chance to experience coming to the training ground, and also to try out our activities. Hopefully they all had a great time and want to come back.”
Cllr Lee Cowen, councillor for Mash Barn and deputy leader of Adur District Council, was also in attendance. He called for more community events to be held at the training ground.
“It’s a fabulous centre here, so it’s really important that we get the community coming in and using this world-class facility, and understanding what’s going on here.
“It’s fantastic to see these kids here enjoying themselves and making use of the pitch. This event was really popular so there’s definitely an appetite for more events like this.”