The Cynon Valley AM Christine Chapman has visited the Valley Blades at their training ground at Caedrawnant. The team have been awarded a £5000 grant from the Communities First Trust Fund, which is funded by the Welsh Government.
Mrs Chapman said:
“I was delighted to visit the Valley Blades. It was encouraging to see so many parents supporting their children’s development. Life skills taught through physical exercise such as football provides these young people with an invaluable start in life. I wish to congratulate Graham Richards, John Roberts, and the team for all their hard work.”
Valley Blades were founded in 2007. They play in the Aberdare Heatwise Football League, and play their home matches at their ground, ‘The Cae’. The team, consists of over 70 players ranging from 5-16 years old, and are managed by a coaching staff of 10. They help the young people to achieve a healthier lifestyle by offering first class training. The coaches encourage, develop, motivate and teach essential skills through mentoring the players and maximising their potential. They aim to increase confidence, self-esteem, and individual personal development.
Under 9’s football coach, Graham Richards said:
“We shall use this money to provide much needed football kit, training tops, and training equipment. We encourage Boys and Girls from 6-16 to join us. I am so incredibly pleased to be awarded this grant. It will make a huge difference to all teams at Valley Blades. It was a special moment for us as a club to meet with our AM for the Cynon Valley, Christine Chapman, who saw the kids going through their drills and was most impressed. We would like to thank Jill Davies from Darran Las Communities First without whose help and support we would not have gained our grant.”
Assistant Coach John Roberts said “We have also been sponsored by my mother’s firm Bibby Sterilin, and would like to thank them for supporting our under 9s. Graham is a great coach where the emphasis is on having fun.”
