Hard work paying off for ambitious Dearne

While Dearne and District JFC has been operating for 33 years, progress in the last six has rocketed past expectations thanks to the work of chairman Antonio Jamasb and the other coaches and parents.

The club provides training to children of all ages on Monday to Saturday every week, often with matches on Sundays depending on age starting from 'Dribblers' for the U6s to training for all age groups up to U18s. An adults team is also in the pipeline.

Dearne entered 19 teams in to local leagues last season all funded by sponsorship, events, tuck shops and subscriptions. The forthcoming season will see that number increase to 23, including an U9s team.

The club has 33 coaches/assistant coaches that volunteer their spare time to support the children, club and community but more are needed to cope with growing numbers.

Sheffield Wednesday's Chris Maguire was guest at the end of season presentation night and a new sponsorship deal means Aldi will provide kit for each player in every team for the forthcoming season. Cash support is also coming from the Big Local lottery fund.

The chief executive of Aldi cut the ribbon to open the club's recent Tour De Dearne event, where hundreds of kids and adults cycled, scootered or walked 3.8 mile to raise money for the club. The event was supported by hundreds of local people. A fund-raising Race Night is also being planned.

Dearne's next big event is their annual tournament, featuring competitive matches for all age groups and entertainment such as petting zoos, archery range and bouncy castles followed by a concert in the evening.

Spokesman Ryan McClean said: “We are doing everything we can to raise enough funds so that we are not reliant on parents' contributions.

“Hundreds of kids are involved in this fantastic family-orientated club. I only joined myself in February and I am already astounded at how brilliant this club is run with how many fantastic volunteers offering their time on daily basis.”

Anyone interested in helping Dearne and District is asked to contact Antonio Jamasb on 07742 385248.