Barrow Town Football Club Girls under 9s squad has become the latest team to be decked out in a professional new strip thanks to funding from Tarmac.
The youngsters, many of whom are just striking out in their football careers, received their black and red football jerseys after an £800 donation towards new kit from Tarmac’s neighbouring Mountsorrel Quarry.
The girls’ team – one of two at the club – is brimming with budding Ellen Whites and Lauren Hemps, according to coach Georgi Clark.
“The girls absolutely love their new kit,” said Georgi. “Thanks to Tarmac they can feel proud when they run out onto the training pitch or playing field.
“It is a real thrill to see them in matching kit and I think it really lifts them as a team. I can really see them coming on in leaps and bounds and it is especially rewarding to see them make a sweet pass or score a goal.
“You never know, in years to come, some of them might even play for England.”
Barrow Town FC provides opportunities for players ranging from as young as four years old right through to 60-plus to play football.
There are a total of 27 football teams associated with the club. An adult first team playing in the United Counties League First Division, a total of 21 boys’ teams from under 7-year-olds to under 15s, two girls’ teams, veterans (30-somethings) and even a walking football team for 50-somethings-plus.
“We really are an inclusive club drawing players from diverse communities and backgrounds,” said Mike Coyne, Barrow Town’s commercial director. “We also have a number of girls training alongside the boys but, due to FA rules, not playing competitively.
“The club also runs a mini soccer academy for under five and six-year-old boys and girls. We are so grateful for the support Tarmac has shown us.”
Such support allows Barrow Town to flourish, and its senior side aspire to climb the leagues.
Mike added: “Technically we are in the tenth tier of English football [based on the FA’s own pyramid structure]. That’s only ten levels below the likes of Leicester City and Liverpool!
“We certainly think we can climb higher but, most importantly, we are providing football to everyone in the Barrow area, and with thanks to Tarmac, are giving them a community-focused club that welcomes anyone and everyone.”
Robert Lees, area operations manager at Mountsorrel Quarry, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to help Barrow Town FC grow its programme of football for young girls. The club provides real opportunities for youngsters of all ages – boys or girls – to keep fit and learn how to play together as a team, building confidence and camaraderie.”