Following on from the unprecedented demand of youth players from within our Community to play in competitive leagues from all ages. Blackburn United FC held an Open Day to give everyone the opportunity to showcase their talents. The event was held on 22nd June 2014 at Pleckgate High School on their extremely well looked after football pitches. It was a truly beautiful day and children together with their parents turned up in their hundreds. “At one point we were concerned that we didn’t have enough volunteers on the day. But, the Senior Players who many have been through the FA Level 1 Coaching Programme supported on the day. It felt as though the Club just continued to collaborate and come together perfectly from the day before at the Presentation Evening” said Ashif Patel The day supported all age groups from the age of 4 through to Senior Level. Over 40 Volunteers were available on the day to support the coaching and identification of talent on the day. The day consisted of all the participants separated in to age groups and led by the relevant team managers or FA Qualified coaching staff. Everyone was put through their paces in a variety of technical and physical drills, this was followed by a series of mental challenges that help assess their understanding of the game. Once this was completed, a series of games were played to see how they compete and operate in a competitive environment. “It was great to see not only young children attending, but, to see over 30 youths aged between 15-18 attend on the day was really pleasing. The young lads showed great commitment and eagerness to play as part of a team and represent Blackburn United FC” said Mohammed Mogra (Child Protection Officer). “Season 2014/15 will see Blackburn United FC compete with 13 teams, this is testament to the efforts of all involved with the Club and demonstrates that the community believes in Blackburn United FC and what we deliver” said Iqbal Bhai. We’ve had some glowing feedback on the day from parents that have never been part of our Club, one parent said; “I never knew that this Club was this well established, organised and this big. It has taken my breath away, I just hope my son was good enough to play in one of the teams as he really enjoyed it here today”. Given its success, the event is likely to become an annual event. We urge all parents, volunteers and sponsors to join us in partnership to make a difference within the Community. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the managers and volunteers that helped on the day, it was a massive success and we hope to do this and something different each year. A special thank you to Pleckgate High Scholl for supporting Blackburn United FC and allowing us to use their truly brilliant facilities” said Iqbal