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The team has had a reasonably successful season so far, we are currently 3rd in the league and are in the cup semi final in two weeks time. One of the challenges we face with trying to run a church football team is the need for so many people to have to work Saturday mornings. This may be due to shift work, financial needs for overtime or company demands to turn in at the weekend. Thankfully we have a decent size squad to chose from with a large community interest from the Binley area. We do however need to look to increase the Christian numbers within the squad, and will be looking at ways to attract church attending Christians to the team for next season.
The Church league itself continues to grow from strength to strength, the standard of football has improved to a very high standard this year. A new initiative this year, a simple one, is that we are looking to pray together, both teams in the centre circle before the game. This is instead of each team praying separately. The aim is to increase spirit and reaffirm that it is Gods glory we play for, thanks to him that in a world full of problems we are able to live in peace and enjoy sport. We pray to play in a spirit that will make JESUS proud of us. This is a challenge when grown men (boys at heart) play to win in sport.
The financial cost of running the team are high, and we are grateful as a team for individual donations from Christians which have been crucial in our ability to cope. We will be actively looking for a big sponsor this summer, preferably a Christian backer, we have a few in mind.
Last but not least, thanks again to the tremendous vocal support from- our very own ELAINE, we hope to reward her with a cup final to enjoy.
Ade Thomas
Report to AGM ~ April 2008
The church football league continues to grow with more teams joining & a higher standard reached. It has been a tough year for us. With still no home venue (Binley recreational ready sept 2007) and an unbelievable amount of games to rearrange due to bad weather, the administration side of the team has been a real challenge. For this the team is indebted to manager Gordon Vickers for tireless effort and endless phone calls to players, refs, council officials and opponents. A tremendous effort and commitment, thanks Gordon
On the pitch has been a very up and down season. Injuries to several key players plus work and other commitments have affected performances. However, for a team normally used to success, this has been a valuable team spirit building experience. The blend of church and community is still the main ethos of the club. The sight of 11 - 15 men praying to Jesus before each game in the middle of a field is an inspirational sight.
We will be looking to recruit church attending players for next year to maintain the balance and also seeking sponsors to help with running costs (around £1,200 per year - accounts kept of all finances).A final note of thanks to anyone who has supported the team this year, in particular the tremendous vocal support of Elaine, who rarely misses a game. We take great pleasure in telling opposing teams "that's our vicar" when asked who our number one fan is. Thanks Elaine, the whole team love seeing you there on match day.
Ade Thomas club captain
Updated from the Report to AGM ~ April 2007
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