Kidbrooke boys net new training equipment

Boys at Samuel Montagu Football Club in Kidbrooke have netted a £250 sport award for new training equipment, thanks to their coach.

The under-13s side has spent their Team Sport Award from UK Power Networks on new bibs, balls and cones. The team was nominated by volunteer coach, Ellis Dack, an underground cable jointer at the company, keeping power supplies flowing in London.

Ellis said: “The team had a lot of hand-me-downs and although it has served us well, the kids deserve better, so we put the money towards new equipment.

“Football keeps the boys occupied and they learn to work together as a team. There are ups and downs in football. You can’t win everything and unless you work hard you can’t get to where you want to be. It’s a life lesson.

“I have some brilliant players willing to get stuck in every week and play football.”

The under-13s train Mondays and Fridays at Samuel Montagu Youth Centre, Broad Walk, Kidbrooke and matches are played there Sundays in the South East London and Kent Youth Football League (SELKENT).

The Team Sport Award scheme encourages UK Power Networks staff to volunteer in the community and is aimed at promoting healthy living, teamwork and developing sporting opportunities. Hundreds of community and sports groups have benefited from grants since the scheme was set up. During 2021, 77 teams benefited from a share in £19,250.