The Belper under-10s – representing the Derbyshire Football Association – joined over 700 children from across the country at the annual McDonald's National Football Festival as 55 Charter Standard grassroots clubs were given a dream day out at England's HQ. The youngsters, who play in the Derby Mini Soccer League, enjoyed a day of coaching and mini-tournaments, including expert tuition from former West Ham United midfielder Geoff Pike.
Belper Town were invited due to our achievement as a FA Charter Standard Community club and our Under 10s proudly represented the club at the event.
Each team had the opportunity to play a game on the Wembley pitch and to have a team photo, with Sir Geoff Hurst OBE, before walking up to the Royal Box to receive a commemorative medal from the guests of honour, including Ken Hair, Belper McDonald’s franchisee who was also instrumental in the Club’s involvement at the event.
And manager Mark Alcock was delighted his side were offered the once in a lifetime opportunity. "The experience of playing against all these teams and then again at Wembley is something that they will remember for the rest of their lives," he said.
"Even though it was just a short amount of time on the pitch, it was well worth it."
The National Festival, which is part of McDonald's football programme, involves sponsoring over 4,500 local football clubs and coaching over one million children.
And Owen – who joined World Cup winner and McDonald's Director of Football Sir Geoff Hurst at Wembley – is hopeful some of the youngsters might one day play for England.
"It's a festival of football so it is all about enjoying the sport and getting a chance to play at Wembley is a superb opportunity," said Owen.
There are three levels of the Scheme:
- F.A. Charter Standard Clubs
- F.A. Charter Standard Development Clubs and
- F.A. Charter Standard Community Clubs
There is also an award for F.A. Charter Standard Adult Clubs only.
The Scheme looks at the administration of Clubs and the qualification of their coaches. It promotes links with local schools and as you work through the awards looks at the development of more teams, including girls’ football teams and development plans detailing Clubs aspirations and sustainability for the future.
If your Club would like to receive further information on the F.A. Charter Standard Scheme please follow the Development Tab on this website or call the Football Development Team at Derbyshire County Football Association on 01332 361422.