Nathan heads for a new job in the States
Nathan Nurton
A young man, who has played a leading role in the development
of young soccer stars in the Vale of Glamorgan, has hit the target
with a new post in America.
Nathan Nurton, who has been assistant football development
officer at the Vale Council for the past four years, is leaving to
take up a coaching job in New Jersey.
During his time with the Vale sports development team, Nathan
has been dedicated to improving football opportunities.
There have been numerous individual successes, and the Vale has
progressed from a Football Centre for Development to Football
Academy which currently involves around 80 boys from under eights
to under 13s who train weekly and play regular inter-regional
matches.
About 25 highly talented young footballers have been identified
and snapped up by Cardiff City FC to join either their Advanced
Centre of Development or Academy with the prospect of recognition
at club and national level.
Around threequarters of Vale schools are signed up to an
accreditation scheme run by the Vale Football Development Unit
where they commit to a set of standards, including delivery of
girls’ and after school clubs.
A Football Association Wales Club accreditation scheme has also
achieved notable success, with Dinas Powys gaining a bronze award
and working towards the silver accolade.
Nathan has further worked on specialist areas encouraging a
girls’ league, coach education, goalkeeping weekends and a ‘Speed,
Agility and Quickness Award’ which has led to a first-time
involvement for eight schools.
The ever popular football fun days run over school holidays at
leisure centres is enjoying record-breaking success, with a
staggering 216 girls and boys joining the scheme over the February
half term to improve their football skills in a fun
environment.
Speaking about his new role, Nathan said: "This is a fantastic
opportunity but I will really miss the great people I have come
into contact with through the Vale football development
environment. Without the hard work of coaches, players, clubs and
schools, football development would not have achieved such a high
success rate."
Vale Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism Cllr Gwyn John said:
“I am obviously very disappointed to see Nathan leaving us as he
has done a very good job in the Vale. However, this is a great
opportunity and I wish him every success.”
The Vale sports development team has officers specialising in
disability sport, Dragon sports and rugby development. The team can
also provide invaluable advice on general areas such as clubs,
schools, volunteering, coaching and funding.
To find out more about sports development in the Vale, contact
Karen Davies, Sports, Arts and Play Development Manager, on (01446)
704614 or visit the Vale Council’s website at www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/sportsdevelopment
26/03/07