New football development officer for the Vale
Encouraging young footballers to enjoy playing without any
unnecessary pressures is one of the priorities of the Welsh
Football Trust’s new football development officer for the Vale of
Glamorgan.
Experienced coach Grant Kalahar will work in conjunction with
the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s sports and play development team to
develop the game locally by liaising closely with football leagues,
schools, clubs and communities.
He
aims to promote the innovative use of ‘buffer zones’ around the
pitches at mini and junior games to keep back over-zealous
spectators, allowing youngsters to play without pressure.
Grant, who will have a combined role developing the game in both
the Vale and Bridgend, said: “Following productive discussions with
the local league committee we have agreed to work together to
promote the use of buffer zones, made up of a distinctive row of
cones or something similar, that only players, coaches and first
aiders are allowed to cross. The aim of this is to prevent
spectators encroaching onto the pitch, removing any pressure or
intimidation felt by players when adults are directly at pitch side
shouting at the youngsters or attempting to instruct them.”
In addition to further improving general football coaching
standards in the county, Grant is hoping to pass on his vast
experience of working as a coach in both disability and girls’
football to local clubs and schools.
Grant said: “In terms of participation rates, football is the
fastest growing sport for girls. I’ve been fortunate enough to
coach girls at all levels, from those who have just started playing
organised football for the first time through to players who have
gone on to represent their country. I’m really looking forward to
lending my experience and support to local clubs and schools to
develop girls’ football in the Vale of Glamorgan.”
Cllr Anthony Ernest, the Vale Council’s Cabinet Member for
Leisure and Tourism, said: "I welcome Grant to the Vale, where his
skills will be put to full use thanks to the huge interest in
football amongst our young people. I am sure that there will be a
speedy take-up of his services, which come from his many years as a
first class coach in the game."
For further details, you can call Grant on 07792 223573, email
grant@welshfootballtrust.org.uk or
visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/football.
Caption: Football development officer Grant
Kalahar (centre) is welcomed to the Vale of Glamorgan by the Vale
Council’s sports and play development manager Karen Davies and
cabinet member for leisure and tourism, Cllr Anthony Ernest.
05/11/2008