At Cosyfeet, we do our best to support our local community here in Somerset. Therefore, we were delighted when we were asked to be a sponsor for the Wessex Youth Football Club under 10’s team – the Wessex Lions.
Wessex Youth FC is solely run and managed by volunteers. A single sub-payment from each player alone covers the various running costs, including pitch maintenance, pitch fees, referee fees, and registrations to the FA and associated leagues. With each individual team, from the under 7’s all the way up to the under 16’s, being responsible for obtaining sponsorships to aid the increasing running costs of the club itself.
The Wessex Lions were formed in the summer of 2020 and originally started with just seven players. This has now grown to a healthy group of 16 children, with players coming from the surrounding villages and towns. Thereby bringing lots of different children together, from various schools and backgrounds. In the aftermath of the pandemic, these extra activities and friendship groups have benefitted the children enormously. Currently the team is participating in the Yeovil District Mini League, in the Under 10’s Division, playing in the format of 7v7 matches.
We spoke with manager, Chris Hegarty, to find out more about this fantastic team, and how Cosyfeet’s sponsorship is seeing them through the season. Chris said, “The generous donation from Cosyfeet has enabled the Wessex Lions to purchase match kits for 14 players – it really gives the boys and girls a sense of being part of a recognised organisation and team. We have been able to provide each individual player with their own three-piece kit, featuring the club logo, team sponsor logo and player number on every garment.”
“We as a team can’t thank Cosyfeet enough for showing their support for a community-run project, which in turn enables us as coaches to concentrate our efforts on helping the children who attend our sessions. Being able to provide this service is something we as a club are very proud of, as it gives children of all ages and abilities the chance to interact and make new friends. It also incorporates the chance to receive advanced training which we hope will enhance the ability of each player as we take them through their journey at Wessex Youth FC.”
Cosyfeet Managing Director, Nick Brine, added, “We’ve always been proud to sponsor local teams and clubs. So, when my good friend Chris came to me with the opportunity to be involved with the Wessex Lions, we were happy to help. I wasn’t previously aware of Chris’s involvement with the club until that point, but his enthusiasm was infectious. It’s great to be a small part of something so positive that brings people joy.”
The coaches are so pleased with how each player’s performance has improved, and the continuous development and progression of the team. But most importantly, the fact that the children are enjoying the experience provided by the club and its amazing group of volunteers. We wish them all the best for the rest of the season, and hope they enjoy their new kits!
