Award-winning Kinmel Bay FC – a perfect example of a great grassroots club

Despite these testing times in which we live at present, Grassroots football clubs have continued to raise the standard of the game across Wales.

Earlier in 2020, Kinmel Bay FC at Y Morfa were awarded Platinum Standard by the FAW Trust for a second year running.

Very few clubs reach this level; it is an exemplary standard achieved through the continuous efforts of players, supporters, volunteers and incredible coaches who dedicate so much to the development of players in teams and to the respect agenda; from the jelly-tots to men’s and ladies teams.

Through these coaching efforts our young people develop self-esteem, character and respect; we are extremely fortunate to have these volunteers and resources in our community.

Nothing can be taken for granted; funds and grants require application and effort, facilities require maintenance and management, all aspects are challenges particularly at this time, but as a community we demonstrate excellence and constancy of purpose.

Frank Standing, chair of Kinmel Bay FC, has hailed the phenomenal work the club has continued to do since football in Wales first came to a standstill in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The club now looks forward to junior football restarting – with sensible precautions – after Wales’ firebreak lockdown ends on November 9.

“I’ve never been so proud as I am now to be chairman of Kinmel Bay FC during these unprecedented times with Covid 19,” said Frank.

“The club achieving platinum award status for the second year running from the FAW Trust shows again we are doing it the right way, this shows that all the hard work started 20 years ago by Anne Darwin and Bill Darwin has paid off and I hope it continues.

“The effort and contribution made by all the coaches and volunteers that are put into the club are fantastic to be involved in.

“I would again like to thank all involved in the club and look forward to the restart of football back at Y Morfa.”

Each year UEFA have a celebration week dedicated to grassroots football.

This year’s UEFA Grassroots Week took place in September, in conjunction with the European Week of Sport (#BeActive) and in cooperation with the European Commission.

As part of the celebration, UEFA invites its member associations to promote, facilitate, encourage and host activities to inspire all forms of football throughout the week.

This year the FAW showcased the impact their Gold and Platinum Accredited Clubs are having within their local communities.

For Kinmel Bay FC the week was a focus on the great work of its coaches through a cross section of teams.

KBFC are not elitist, but as a platinum standard club they are very very good.

They welcome all abilities, boys and girls, ladies and men’s teams to join, make friends, get fit, learn a skill and life-long interest.

Here in North Wales, we can feel immensely proud of Kinmel Bay FC.

Huge thanks to club media officer Barry Griffiths for photos and information