Children from Class 4 at Barrowford Primary School enjoyed a visit to Nelson Football Club as part of the club’s new free learning initiative aimed at local schools.
The group was given a unique “Behind the Scenes” tour of the club, finding out what’s involved in running a non-league football club and learning all about Nelson FC’s incredible history.
They were also given the chance to show off their drawing skills as they were set the challenge to design a new stadium for Nelson FC, followed by taking turns to score a penalty in the pitch.
NFC chief executive Adam Keizer said: “The kids were brilliant – some of the ideas for a new stadium were fantastically creative. From play parks on the roofs to play stations built into the back of seats, they really used their imaginations and came up with some unique ideas.
“They all went away with a new insight into Nelson Football Club and a certificate each, so it was great fun and we hope to see them all at Victoria Park again in the future.”
The school visits are part of the clubs new “In The Community” strategy , according to the new chief executive.
“As a football club, it’s important we work with local schools and this type of engagement with local children is key to building long-term relationships that, hopefully, can last a lifetime,” Adam said.
“The free learning initiative is part of our commitment to the local community and it’s great fun having local children down at the club, learning about what goes on off the pitch at a football club and finding out about the history of Nelson FC. We have school visits booked most weeks already, which is fantastic.”
Teacher Catherine Savage was impressed by the visit and said: “The children absolutely loved the learning experience at Nelson FC. Some of the children have lived in Nelson all their lives and did not know the ground was there.
“Adam Keizer was a great host with an enthusiasm for promoting the club within the community. The children particularly enjoyed learning about the history of the club, designing a new stadium and they loved taking penalties on the pitch.”
Plans are in place for more school visits to the club, as well as other free educational programmes Nelson FC will be offering to local children.
l And Nelson FC is hosting its Community Day on the September 27th. It’s a free entry to all, with the club opening its new hospitality box –and it’s a fund-raiser for Prostate Cancer UK.
Gates open to public at 1-30pm and Adam said: “We’ll have a bouncy castle, food and drink and live entertainment at half-time. So we are so hoping to get a big crowd down.”
