Coaches at Orangefield Old Boys FC are ready for the new season, thanks to Power NI’s staff sponsorship scheme ‘Helping Hands.’
The East-Belfast Football Club received a £250 community grant through Power NI’s staff initiative, which gives employees the opportunity to nominate local groups and organisations to receive funding. Thanks to the suggestion by Power NI employee and Orangefield FC player, Clarke Little, the club will be able to cover the costs of new football jackets for all coaching staff.
The pandemic curtailed the season in 2020, but the loosening of restrictions means the team will be able to take to the pitch this year, with the season scheduled to begin in August.
The East Belfast Football Club was formed by past members and teachers of Orangefield High School in 1966. The club joined the Amateur League in 1970, achieving intermediate status in 1987. They currently play their home matches at the Cregagh Sports Club on Gibson Park Avenue, Belfast.
The club fields seven teams in total, including; a first team, a second team playing in NAFL Division 3A, a development team playing in Division 1 of the South Antrim League and junior teams for the Under 17’s, Under 16’s, Under 13’s and Under 11’s.
Delighted with the funding, Clarke commented:
“As a Power NI employee, I appreciate the difference the Helping Hands Scheme makes to local groups and communities. I’ve played for Orangefield Old Boys Football Club for over six years now and it’s proved to be a progressive place where I’ve set up my life, with the sport I love.
“Given the current climate, it’s getting more expensive to fund the teams on a regular basis, so any help that can be provided is more than greatly received. The Helping Hands funds we’ve been awarded will ensure our coaches can get ‘game ready’ with our new coaching jackets, as we approach the return of outdoor sport. We’ll be very proud to wear the Power NI logo on it too!”
To find out more on how Power NI is energising local communities click here.
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