A new girls’ football team are all kitted out for the new season thanks to a community-based grant from Broadacres.

Established in 2012 by Richard Darcy, with the aim of providing football opportunity to all children regardless of ability, North Yorkshire Soccer Academy has now provided thousands of children with the chance to improve their skills.

Sessions take place during term times in Northallerton, Guisborough, Middlesbrough and Thirsk with full details available at nysocceracademy.com

The club has recently developed land at Carlton Miniott near Thirsk as a home pitch for a new under-14 girls’ team.

That’s meant finding the money for new goals, kit, footballs and other equipment as well as a storage container to keep it all and a £350 grant from Broadacres Community Development Fund has helped them reach their goal.

“Grants like this one from Broadacres are vital in helping grassroot community clubs survive,” said Rich.  “Sport is very important for youngsters, not just for the physical benefits but also the mental health benefits of getting outdoors, socialising, making new friends and being part of a team. It’s also good for parents to come and watch their children having fun.”

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents via a voting scheme using tokens similar to how Tesco award grants in its stores.

To apply to the Fund visit the Community Development Fund grant page.