Support the Everton boys
13/06/2011
Our photograph shows the Everton Boys’ Club under-8 team – based not in Liverpool but in Paisley! And the team is run by club treasurer Alan Reid, who works for Davies Turner Air Cargo in Hillington.
The club was founded in 1986 to provide boys in the local community with an opportunity to be part of a wellorganised sporting set-up, and to help to steer them on the right path in their future endeavours – and keep them off the streets! “We currently operate eight teams at different age levels ranging from four to 16,” says Alan.
“We are constantly striving to ensure that all the boys are kitted out in Everton Boys’ Club regalia, so as to create that sense of belonging. Our previous sponsors were Hillington-based Bibbylicious.
“I remember from my own time as a kid being handed club bags, ties, jackets etc – and the feeling of pride in displaying them. I want to help the boys at our club also to experience that same feeling.
”As well as the Everton regalia worn by the boys, the club also provides balls and training equipment. And it holds an annual presentation night, where every boy receives a trophy.
“It truly is a picture seeing the boys receiving their trophy, especially the younger ones, who think they have just been handed the World Cup – we are all allowed to dream!”
The club holds monthly meetings at the Accord Hospice in Paisley. When they hold a fund-raising event, they always make a donation to the hospice.
“At our age group, the boys play noncompetitive football,” continues Alan. “The emphasis is to enjoy playing and learning the game, rather than being all about winning.
“On Saturdays, our team plays against other local teams in the Paisley and Johnstone District Youth Football League. We also train with the boys two nights during the week to help improve their skills, fitness and teamwork.
“To do this, we need support and sponsorship from local businesses and we hope the Hillington Herald can help us reach prospective sponsors.”
Contacts: Alan Reid, 07545 381 568, or Joe O’Rourke, Chairman, 07828 006 517.
