MFC Community Sports' CEO Stuart Glover sits down to discuss the charities success over the last 12 months.
It's been a successful year for MFC Community Sports, who continue to increase the relationship between the Club and local area.
With various initiatives and activities targetted at members of the Morecambe and Heysham communities, the charity is going from strength to strength.
Stuart Glover, who was confirmed as Community Sports' CEO earlier this month after taking over from Janet Preston after 20 years of incredible service, says: "The last 12 month has seen the charity grow and change to meet the challenges and the needs of our community.
"We have introduced a new project working with children in years six & seven, educating them around mental health awareness and coping strategies as they make the transition to high school.
"Our Veterans Coffee Mornings have continued to thrive, offering a safe space for like-minded people to meet up, have a brew, improve their social circles and access services from some of partners to improve their health and well-being.
"The success of this project has led to funding being secured from the Veterans Foundation to employ a project officer to expand our offer.
"We continue to deliver a fantastic schools programme, delivering P.E, supporting and developing teacher confidence in PE, social action projects to improve the school/community environment and high-quality coaching from breakfast to after school."
On top of these improvements, the charity offers their 'Premier League Kicks' programme for young boys and girls, aged 8 to 16, in the area, some of which have gone on to represent the Club at various regional competitions.
Additionally, Community Sports have formed part of the Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) initiative which provides activity and healthy meals during the school holidays for children on free school meals; this runs alongside the Soccer Schools which generates plenty of interest.
As well as this, supporters will notice an abundance of matchday improvements. Glover continues: "The matchday experience has improved significantly over the past year. From Musicians greeting fans to the reintroduction of the Shrimpettes, it has all been well received.
"We have grassroot clubs as flag bearers, courtesy of our friends at the Service to Youth League, who also help to bring new fans to the club via various initiatives. Mascots are back and Christie the Cat has had a much-needed overhaul!
"A major success has seen us play a key role in developing the Women’s team relationship with the football Club, who played their first game at the Mazuma recently with over 600 fans in attendance.
"Upon reflection, it's been a great year for engagement with thousands of people. The outlook for the coming year is a bright one, with growth planned, services expanded and having an even more positive impact on our community."
The Shrimps celebrate our annual Community Day on Saturday 15 April when Wycombe Wanderers travel to the Mazuma. Tickets remain available, click here to secure yours and enjoy a day of community celebration!