BELFAST GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL CLUB IN GROUNDBREAKING MOVE TO HELP YOUNG PLAYERS

A West Belfast grassroots football club has strengthened its pledge to help kids swap the street life for the beautiful game.

Glendowan FC has announced it is launching a new senior team to provide a clear pathway for young players coming through its ranks.

The long-standing football outfit has become a sporting institution in the heart of the Colin area, and it has now announced significant expansions to its initiatives.

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The club was founded in 2002 by concerned parents who shared a vision to engage and entertain their children.

Founders Terry Cassidy and David Owen started by organising 5-a-side friendly games and now the club has flourished into a beacon of community spirit, boasting over 250 registered players ranging from Under 5 to Under 16.

Over the past 22 years it has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for the youth of the community.

The club participates in various leagues including the Lisburn League, IFA small-sided games, Fonacab Development League, and Prodirect Development League, offering diverse opportunities for skill development and competition.

And now, in a significant stride forward, Glendowan FC has proudly unveiled the addition of a new senior team to its roster, marking an exciting new chapter in the club's history.

This decision was made to provide a clear pathway for the club’s talent to senior football and keeping this positive outlet in place especially during the tentative years of early adulthood.

This expansion not only broadens the club's reach but also underscores its commitment to providing football opportunities for individuals of all ages within the community.

"Glendowan FC has always been more than just a football club; it's a cornerstone of the community," remarked Chairman Gareth Devlin.

"Our focus remains firmly rooted in youth development and community engagement, and the introduction of our new senior team reflects our dedication to fostering a lifelong love for the sport among all members of our community."

With an eye towards the future, Glendowan FC is excited to unveil forthcoming initiatives aimed at further enriching the lives of its players and the broader community including Fan Fitness promoting mental and physical health in the community.

As the largest youth football club in the Colin neighbourhood, Glendowan FC recognises the importance of continued growth and innovation in fulfilling its mission.

"We are incredibly proud of the strides we've made since our humble beginnings in," said Glendowan FC stalwart Eddie Mulligan.

"Our success is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and coaches who have poured their hearts into the club year after year. We remain committed to providing a platform for youth development and fostering a sense of belonging within our community."

Glendowan's Senior Team is gearing up for an exciting season ahead as they prepare to compete in the Belfast & District Football League for the 2024/25 season, adding a new layer of excitement to the club's journey.

For anyone interested in getting involved please contact the club on email: [email protected] or visit their Facebook page.

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2024-05-03T16:17:22Z dg43tfdfdgfd