We have hit the back of the net for local teenagers in Portsmouth by supporting the Havant and Waterlooville Football Club’s Under 16s team for the second year running. The train company has donated almost £1,000 to sponsor their training equipment, rain jackets and the club's annual 6-a-side tournament to be held in July 2009.
The club was founded in 1963 and last year 182 teams took part with youngsters from Hampshire and the Isle of Wight competing from all age groups, and some with short-term contracts with local professional clubs.
Paul Harman of Havant & Waterlooville football club, said: “I would like to say a big thank you to South West Trains for the support over the last few years and I hope that we can now form a big bond as the money goes to a good cause which helps local children. We run 16 football teams ranging from mini soccer to men’s youth football and all support is very welcome.”
Steve Hampson, South West Trains’ Area Manager, said: “It is easy to forget that all our greatest football stars of today started at this level. We are keen to support ‘grass-roots’ football and we are pleased to sponsor the clubs many aspiring young footballers.”