New coaches for relegated St Benedict's
Last updated 12:55, Tuesday, 05 August 2008
St Benedict's have appointed joint coaches for the 2008/09 season as the club aims to bounce straight back from relegation.
And the Mirehouse club plans to give something back to their local community for the backing they have received over the new all-weather pitch.
In charge for the new season will be Elliott McGrady and Ian McQuire, who have already created an instant impression at well-attended training sessions.
Both are to go through the relevant coaching courses and are looking to make a big impression back in the Cumbria League when it starts in September.
Club secretary Stephen Howse said: “The lads are putting a lot of emphasis on fitness this year and the response from the players has been excellent. We have some very promising young players at the club and hope they can develop together in the Cumbria League this coming season.”
McGrady is actually returning to the club after spending 2007/08 with Carlisle. Unfortunately an eye injury in training curtailed his first team opportunities at Warwick Road but he hopes to be able to resume training with Benny’s.
Club stalwart McQuire also suffered a few injury problems last season but he held key roles off-the-field as match secretary, fixtures secretary and referees contact. Howse said: “We have three tasty games to start the season with, and all at home so I know the new coaching team is looking for a flying start.”
Saints entertain Yarnbury on September 6 in the Senior Vase competition and then follow-up at Newlands Avenue with League games against improving fellow-Copeland side Gosforth Greengarth and then town rivals Whitehaven.
Before then Saints are planning a football tournament for youngsters in the Mirehouse area and have organised a registration night for this Thursday between 6pm and 7pm.
“It’s a way of saying thanks to the local people who have supported us through our fund-raising for the all-weather facilities, and that’s where the tournament will be played.
“It’s basically for youngsters between the ages of eight and 16 and just what format we decide on will depend on the numbers we get at registration on Thursday. There’s no cost for anyone and there will be a trophy for the winning team at the end of the competition.
“We will also be deciding on the dates for the competition to be played when we check the bookings and have no set dates in mind,” said Howse.
