Leamington Development Squads to grow after receiving grant from country’s largest sports charity

The grant will allow Leamington DS FC to double their number of teams through the creation of Development sides at under-12, under-14 and under-16 level.

At the same time it will help fund managers’ coaching badges and training.

Darran Ward, Leamington DS chairman, said: “This funding takes a huge amount of pressure off the introduction of new teams.

“Financing pitches, kit, equipment, training venues, etc is a large hurdle to overcome when developing new teams.

“Thanks to the Football Foundation grant, it will be much easier for local children and coaches to become involved in the exciting times at Leamington DS FC.”

So far Grow the Game has awarded 874 separate grants worth around £4.2m to grassroots football clubs.

Applications are being invited for players wishing to trial for Leamington DS FC for next season’s under-12s through to under-16s.

Junior teams play in the Midland Junior Premier League (MJPL) and the Youth team is in the Midland Youth Floodlit League.

To apply, email the appropriate age group manager with your name, age, date of birth, current team and league and playing position.

Under-12s: Steve Davison ([email protected]). Under-14s: Gary Ingram ([email protected]).

Under-15s: Andy Jeffries ([email protected]).

Under-16s: Darran Ward ([email protected]).

Meanwhile, Leamington DS FC under-18s conclude their season at the New Windmill on May 18 (11am) with the MJPL Cup final against Inkberrow Eagles.

“To finish the season with a cup final, let alone be drawn at the NWG is a wonderful way to round things off and what the lads and coaching staff deserve after a great season,” said boss Daz Bradley.