Beechfield United Football Club

POSTED: December 26 2020 18:54:22 By Keith Long - Statement From U/8's Storm Manager Ian Lee

After my first meeting with Shane Flanagan and the Holding Group, from just four players to be able to field two U/8's teams playing against each other is a remarkable achievement.

Ian said he's been lucky enough to have wonderful help from Shane plus superb coaching by Gary Davies that has seen the players develop massively. U/8's Tornadoes boss Ryan Pugh has been a breath of fresh air since he joined the club and has proved time and time again it's all about the kids. However the biggest thank you goes to the club committee for the support and trust they have shown that gave myself and Ryan the opportunity to manage the teams.

For anyone who thinks it's all about winning then it's definitely not my philosophy. For me it's always been about the players enjoyment but I do understand and respect those people who want to win at all costs. Maybe sometime in the future I will stand back and let someone else take the team forward as the boys get older. I must praise the parents who bring their child to the club and stand watching the games in all kinds of weather and support each other plus they help to put the equipment away whilst the Team Managers talk to the players after the game.

The Under 8's Storm versus Under 8's Tornadoes in-house Salford and Districts League Blue Group fixture was played at Beech Farm Playing Fields on Saturday 5th December 2020. The allocated match officials let the teams down so Ryan Pugh stepped in and handled the role in a fair and honest manner. The game itself produced a wholehearted display from both teams and though Storm were the winners the Tornadoes work rate throughout was fantastic.