Readers may recall that we recently carried an article on a BT Connect coaching event at Kilgetty Football?Club. Here, Sharron Hardwick, Kilgetty AFC secretary and coach, reflects on a memorable and enjoyable day for the club.

Former Welsh international footballer Matty Jones recently visited Kilgetty AFC Junior teams as part of Kilgetty’s new partnership with BT Connected Club’s Hope United initiative.

In a fun-filled morning of football, 54 girls and boys team players aged between six and 12 years met with their teammates and coaches at Kilgetty AFC, Kingsmoor Sports Club.

“My under 12s girls team were so excited to meet Matty I thought they were going to burst, especially when they saw the TV cameras and photographers!” said Sharron. “It was a real encouragement to them as a newly-formed girls team to spend time learning from the current Wales Under 18s coach, former Premiership and Wales international player.”

Footage for the FC Cymru Euros Tour was filmed at Kilgetty AFC for the BT UK event. The Eat Sleep Media team, including Olympian Mica Moore, warmed up with a game of giant Fairtrade football ahead of Matty Jones’s visit.

During an interview, Kilgetty AFC chairman, Lukas Gamble, explained what it means to be part of BT Connected Clubs: “We are a grassroots club with very little finances, so BT setting us up with free WIFI for three years is great. BT Connected events like this give our club fantastic exposure, raising our profile in the community showing people what we are about; fun, football and community.”

When interviewed by Mica, Chloe, Bethany and Macy from the Under 12s Girls said: “We have excellent coaches and we are learning new skills, making friends and having fun.”

Matty spent hours with the young players, talking to every team, leading coaching skills sessions, sharing his vast knowledge of football and coaching.

“This is what grassroots football is all about, young children with smiles on their faces, their enthusiasm is so infectious! Through the various age groups, the passion differs from one child to the next. They are wonderful, disciplined and engaging in everything they are doing, and listening to the coaches, which speaks volumes for Kilgetty Football Club and their expectations. It is all fun generated which is the key in grassroots football,” he said.

Coaches and players were indeed smiling after thoroughly enjoying the BT Connected event:

“Kids had a wicked time today, well done everyone for organising such a great event!” said Amy Cooper.

“The Under 9s loved it and said they had a great time. Great feedback from the parents. Many thanks to Lukas and all involved,” shared Under 9s coach Anthony.

Under 11s coach Andy said the team was: “Over the moon and had a great time, thanks to all involved!”

Kilgetty AFC require coaches for six to 12-year -old girls training which takes place term time, Tuesdays at Kingsmoor Sports Field, 5.30 to 6.30 pm. DBS and club registration will be required. Call James to register your child or to sign up as a coach 07872 594290.

Under 14s boys (aged Year 9 from September 2021) are looking for players next season, training Mondays 6 - 7 pm Kilgetty AFC Kingsmoor Sports Field. Contact Steve on 07890 697116.

Under 11s, which is last year in junior school from September, will be resuming training in August. For information, call Duane 07775 434248.