FootballUnder 18's football at Platt is organised by Mark Dooley. "My name is Mark Dooley. I have a level 1 FA recognised National Coaching Certificate in Football. This certificate has enabled me to coach in a positive and confident way. |
 |
I have coached children in football for three years in Platt Fields Park free of charge. However, there are three ground rules, which are Bible based principles: No swearing, no hurting the smaller children and no blaspheming.
We call it "Off the Street Soccer" and we are in partnership with Manchester Leisure who organise sports activities for children in parks.
Over the past three years we have offered children between the ages of 12 and 18 the opportunity to become involved in training sessions and friendly matches. The other coach Dave Cowan and myself have set up games in Platt fields park against a church side or two and a team of lads from Withinton again organised by Christians. Also we have played against a local Somali team from Rusholme, whom may I add were very good.
We have been transparent about our faith with the team we coach and some are Muslim lads. We do not impose our views but share them when the opportunity reveals itself. We have worked with Pathfinders who have put on a number of events at the church and the team have been invited. Many turned up to the Kato night and may have heard the good news for the first time.
I would like to thank God for this opportunity and ask through Jesus what direction should we take for 2006/07. Many of the lads have come to 17 years of age and are working or taking exams and our turnout of numbers have dropped. Please pray for a new intake of boys who want to play football and for the coaches who can be used to guide them to Jesus."
For more information contact Mark Dooley through the church office.
