Chairman Chat - MARCH

A very busy February and March with plans already in full swing for next season, although 2022-23 has been extended further following the recent snow, creating more fixture congestion for teams in all leagues.

That being said, this year has been our biggest season to date, in terms of growth and retention of players and with that the number coaches associated at our club. As with any progression it also highlights a number of possible issues, increases the workload for those behind the scenes  and only adds frustrations when many don't put themselves forward to help run a grassroots club.

As a committee we are possibly looking at how we can structure the club differently to get more people involved, but what is apparent is we need to ensure parents, coaches and players associated with our club are conducting themselves in a manner to ensure our continued success.

I plan to sit down with every coach separately before the season close to reiterate what is expected from the FA and as a club to stop any future potential problems internally.

Ironically, this came hand in hand with an FA Spot Check on the club, where the county FA came and visited us on site to interact with coaches and parents alike ensuring best practice in safeguarding is being adhered to.

With a number of issues on the sidelines within the County, what we want to ensure is every parent is aware of what is expected when attending games, making informal choices about the decisions they make and what football setting they want their child is involved in. 

I have known Jack since he was 6, turning up at St Bedes and taking part in my first Soccer Tots session. Since then he has developed into a young mature man, who has recently coached alongside me and my U11s as he aims to achieve a Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Everyone at the club wishes you speedy recovery Jack.

Two of our older teams found themselves in semi finals over the last few weeks but unfortunately were on the wrong end of results.

Our U15s played a very strong Frampton side in the GFA County Cup losing 5-1, with our U12 Purples eventually losing on penalties 6-5 to Almondsbury in their league cup fixture.

I mentioned last month how I had actively been working behind the scenes developing the business plan that would hopefully secure the lease for the site, and in turn ensuring Port of Bristol Youth Football Club home for generations to come.

After being submitted in January, Bristol City Council have decided to award the site a lease of up to 35 years, which is great for the area as a whole, given the work in the community the POB Sports & Community Hub has done over the last 14 months.

What I ask, with my football club hat on is please respect the site at all times.

Keep supporting this amazing football club as it is very unique and different to many others.

I recently spoke to a few coaches and parents who have joined from other teams and they are amazed by just what Port of Bristol Youth Football Club is, compared to their experiences within other grassroot clubs.

Food after games, players able to keep POTW trophies, club paid social events, just to name a few differences to what they've had. 

Remember...The grass isn't always greener on the other side.

Speak soon, Chris.