FA Charter standard presented to Bexhill Youth FC

The Charter Standard Scheme is best practice guide that sets standards of coaching, administration and child protection for clubs working with young people.

To qualify for the coveted accolade the club had to meet strict criteria on codes of conduct, child welfare and coaching qualifications.

The award incorporates a 3 year development plan, a vision which aims to provide high quality coaching as well as building a club that benefits the local community.

Club Secretary, Chris Lappin said: "We started out with one team and in a short space of time we now have six.

"The coaching provided is exceptional but as well as improving ball skills it provides a platform for instilling confidence, discipline and team spirit within the players."

There are currently teams ranging from under 7s to under 12s within the club. All teams are guided by FA qualified coaches who themselves are lead by club founder Lyntton Peppiatt,who holds a UEFA B coaching badge.

This level of experience and skill within the club has helped achieve the Charter Standard status so quickly and is unparalleled within the local area.

Lyntton said "Our aim is to develop local players and help them enjoy their football. I am passionate about the game and the club. We are now one of only eleven clubs in Sussex who have been awarded this status. Some clubs can wait over 20 years and still not

achieve the required standard. We have done it in less than two, it's a great achievement."

The club plans to expand, but not to the detriment of coaching standards, as Lyntton explained: "We do intend to grow over the next three years but only if we attract qualified

coaches who can maintain and improve the quality of coaching we offer the players. It is important we let the kids express themselves and give them the opportunity to play football with a sense of freedom.

"It's not just about winning games, it's about having fun and becoming better players."

There are also plans to link up with County League outfit, Sidley United, as Peppiatt explained: "We are hoping to become a feeder club for Sidley in the near future. This will give players clear path for progression as well as providing something to aim for."

The club has already forged links with local schools such as Crowhurst and Red Lake Primary Schools who benefit from coaching sessions held by the club. It is run by a team of volunteers but has a distinctly professional feel about it.

Chairman Andy Barrett commented: " We have a great set up and everyone has done a fantastic job from the coaching through to the admin side of things. Everyone has worked really hard to get where we are."

The club has secured sponsorship from various local firms as well as organising events to raise funds for the club.

A recent bag packing event at Sainsbury's swelled the club's coffers by over 400. More schemes are in the pipeline as the club looks for ways to meet running costs.

From coaches through to parents and players there is genuine enthusiasm about the club and pride in what has been achieved so far.

Not only do they provide a positive environment for young people to play football but the way they contribute to local schools and community gives Bexhill Youth a sense of truly being a family club.

Anyone wishing to get involved or find out more can call Lyntton Peppiatt on 01424 842387.