NATIONWIDE Conference at the moment but Leigh RMI have bigger and better aims.
The next step up into the professional ranks is massive indeed but as manager Steve Waywell and his staff continually look to be making real progress out on the field, the transformation behind the scenes is equally impressive.
Just a fortnight after plans were announced for the next development stage in bringing Hilton Park up to Football League standard, the club's youth section has revealed Football in the Community plans and schedules which in terms of ambition, determination and organisation more than stand comparison with any professional club.
Before the end of this month RMI officials and coaches will commence work on a carefully staged coaching programme out in the community in a dozen local schools. RMI coaches Tony Hogan, Gerald Ainsworth, Dave Miller and Steve Eckersley will be running soccer coaching sessions alongside school staff as part of the normal education curriculum.
Starting at basic skill and expertise levels the courses are carefully staged to develop player expertise and knowledge in all aspects of the game from goalkeeping to scoring goals. The whole project is run along the guidelines laid down by the Football Association's Football in the Community scheme.
From acquiring and developing skills levels, tactical awareness and building up knowledge of health, fitness and performance, the sessions are fully focused on learning by enjoyment and participation. Techniques are taught by practice and involvement not just theory with all skills put to the test in game situations.
The highly ambitious RMI scheme will see their coaches kept extremely busy through to the end of summer term with local schoolkids in for a thoroughly enjoyable and instructive ride. All the courses are for boys and girls and will also be run in special needs schools.
The school involved are Leigh C of E Infants and Juniors, Westleigh Meths, St Thomas', Westleigh St Pauls, Atherton St Georges, Newtonwest Park, Meadowbank, Green Hall Primary, Two Porches, St Gabriels and Sacred Heart.
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