Introduction
By Paul Williams, Bishop of Kensington, former Rector of St James (1999 to 2009)
“We are delighted that St James Football has become such a great part of our children’s ministry. Every week well over 150 boys come together to have fun, make friendships and score goals. There is also a chance to hear all about the other ways we help children enjoy life and faith at St James.”
The Vision and Values of St James Football Club
In keeping with St James’ vision of providing football with a strong Christian ethos, St James Football Club provides football matches, training and social activities for children.
A fun, friendly and safe environment for children to enjoy the fantastic game of football and to develop their skills.
- Competitive league football matches on Saturday to allow children to attend church on Sundays
- An opportunity for St James Church to engage with the wider community, who may learn more about he work of St James through their connection with the football team
St James Football Club: How is it organised and who is it for?
Saint James Football Club takes place on most Saturdays from September to May. We take part in the Chiltern Church Junior Football League, regulated by the FA. It consists of various church teams in the locality.
We provide football for children from school year 1 upwards. Each team is in school year age groups:
- U6 (yrs 1) non-competitive, but have training and fun football activities
- U7-U10 (Yr.2-Yr5) play 7-a-side league football
- U11-U15 (Yr 6+) play 11-a-side league football
Each new team is managed and/or coached by a member of St James Church and parents are also encouraged to get involved in their child’s team – on the pitch coaching, on the sideline, or in an administrative role.
All coaches are CRB checked and some have the Level 1 FA coaching qualification. The team of appropriate 30 coaches are committed to providing fun and competitive football whatever the weather!
The Club is run by a committee and acts in keeping with the club constitution.
Each team has a maximum number of players, which enables each child to have a good amount of football play each week. Players will not generally be taken on after 31 January as they cannot join the league after this date (FA regulations). Girls are welcome until U10 (Yr 5) after which age FA regulations do not permit mixed teams.
If a team is full, a waiting list is held and priority is given to St James Church children. St James FC is a non-profit making and self funding club. Subscriptions are due before the season commences. This covers weekly football, a full kit and all club activities and tournaments (2010/11 new players subs are £75, existing members £60).
For more information contact St James Children’s ministry 01753 278952, email football AT saintjames.org.uk or use the contact form.
