Welcome to the first post of the 26/27 season. It’s been a long summer - possibly the hottest I remember and it’s great to see many of the teams back, running hard and playing with a smile on their faces. All of our coaches have been busy planning the sessions and getting your boys & girls registered - a big thanks to Mel, Aman, Benn and Dave for working so hard on registrations.

Most of our junior teams will start the new season on 20th September, with our Men's and Women's teams getting going just a little earlier. Pre-season is honestly one of my favourite times of year (and not just because you have an excuse to get the players doing extra press ups and burpees…!).

What We're All About

If you asked me what we're really about as a club, it's simple. We want kids to fall in love with football. Not just play, but properly enjoy it. Every player should feel the freedom of trying something new, the happiness of a good pass getting to its destination, and learning to bounce back after a tough game. Hopefully they will all becomes mates along the way, that look forward to seeing each other every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.

For us development isn't just about the scoreline. It's about giving every child room to grow, as a player and also as a person.

A Change of Venue

I thought I’d use this post (for those who read it!) to give a quick heads up for the new season. Our matches are moving to Erith Leisure Centre. Training stays at Northumberland Heath for now, and we'll confirm anything closer to the season starting, please have a chat with your team manager nearer the time for the full details.

An extra Word on Matchdays

One more thing I wanted to mention as we head into the new season.

Our coaches put a lot of thought and care into every session and every matchday. Part of that is trying to build an environment where the kids feel able to think for themselves. To try things, get it wrong sometimes, and work things out without too many voices shouting different instructions at once.

So if you're on the touchline this season, it would mean a lot if you could let the coaches coach. A bit of encouragement goes a long way. The calmer we can keep things, the more freedom the kids have to enjoy themselves and make their own decisions. Being able to make decisions themselves is what makes good footballers.

We know it all comes from a good place, everyone loves this team and wants to see them do well. We just want that support to help the kids feel free out there rather than watched too closely.

Keep the Ball Rolling at Home

There’s 3 weeks left of the summer holidays. I personally can’t wait to send the kids back in!

If you want to help your son or daughter out in the meantime, the easiest thing you can do is keep a ball at your child's feet whenever you get the chance. Garden, park, even the living room floor if you're brave enough. Every little touch improves ball mastery and there's no better way to build confidence and love for the game than time just spent enjoying it.

Here's to a brilliant season together.

Slade Green Knights ⚽