Tomorrow night Cray Wanderers U10s Sharks will walk out with the players prior to the game and act as ball boys for the game against Dereham Town.

 

Sharks manager, Kevin Hunt, said “It’s important for the kids to realise what they are a part of Cray Wanderers, and that they play an important part in ensuring that the legacy of the club continues. We want the kids to feel proud and honoured to be representing this club in any capacity, so to be involved with the first team on a match day is a fantastic reflection on the kids, and the regard in which grassroots football is held at the club”.

The Sharks were formed for the 2012/13 season and Kevin was the assistant manager of the U12 side which sadly folded.  Following a recommendation from a previous club U12's club for Kevin it was too much of an exciting opportunity to turn down.

The club play Sunday mini football in the Selkent League ‘B’ East Division and play their home games at Mottingham Playing Fields, the home of Cray Wanderers Youth.  They are sponsored by Lambs Mini Coaches a local family run business.

They currently have a squad of 10. However during the next few the squad will be increased as, from next season, the boys will be playing 9 a-side football.

Despite the teams short history Kevin is happy with the progress they have made.

He said: “We finished runners up in a pre-season tournament for the 2013/14 season as U9’s and also won the 'fair play award' on our first tour to Butlins. The icing on the cake for the boys was having Nottingham Forest manager, Stuart Pearce, present the trophy.

“And last season our goalkeeper was signed by a professional club.  We are very proud of his achievement and wish him all the best”.

As Cray Wanderers look to develop on and off the field in the next few seasons. One such area where the club continues to excel is with their youth work football in the community.  The club has representation in most age brackets and each team is run with great dedication and professionalism by their managers and coaches.