THE coach of a youth football team in Chirk has thanked a local business for providing sponsorship for the end of season awards.

Harry Thomas, who spent the season as coach for the under-13s age group at Chirk Youth, has highlighted the importance of support for grassroots football after local satellite specialist Colin Skyman sponsored the awards.

After a difficult and interrupted season, there was reason to celebrate as players at the club were recognised for their significant improvement and goalscoring among other achievements.

For clubs like Chirk, local sponsorship is vital and does not go unnoticed, Harry explained.

He said: “A massive thank you to Colin for offering sponsorship for the awards, and approaching us to sponsor them again next season.

“A local business like Colin’s supporting grassroots football is fundamental – it’s absolutely vital for it.

“Without sponsorship at this level, there wouldn’t be the same opportunity to raise funds and keep the teams going for young players – it’s a lifeline.

“Colin is a big supporter of the group and we can’t thank him enough for his generosity and support of the club and grassroots football as a whole.

“He, like many of our sponsors, are generous in their donations and we’re extremely grateful to them all.”

Players were recognised for their outstanding contribution during the disrupted season.

Kyler Piercy was awarded one of the manager’s player awards as well as the most Man of the Match awards.

Liam Lippitt and Blake Parry were recognised for being the most improved players in the group.

And Jack Hodge won players’ player, supporters’ player and manager’s player, while Jake Thomas picked up the top goalscorer award.

Harry added: “The under-13s had a trying end to the season with the uncertainty regarding what was happening with sport and the possible restart of the season.

“The lads put in an extraordinary effort throughout the season whenever they played, and that will prove to be beneficial for them as they head into the under-14s.

“We’re extremely proud of their efforts during an excellent, although reduced, campaign.”