Westbury Youth Football Club is kicking off the 2024/25 season stronger than ever, boasting 19 teams and more than 240 children representing the town across ten age groups. The club, which has grown substantially over the years, also has a flourishing women’s team.
With the new season now in full swing, the club is looking forward to exciting times ahead. It follows a successful season last year which saw a number of notable successes.
“We’re excited for what the new season has in store,” said club chairman Luke Hames. “Our goal is to make this season even more successful, both on and off the field.
Luke highlighted several key moments from last season, including the launch of a new club crest featuring the iconic white horse, symbolising Westbury, and a fresh green-and-white kit.
“The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the Westbury Youth Tournament,” he said. “Over the weekend, we proudly hosted more than 250 teams, with 1,900 boys, girls, and ladies participating in the league, shield and cup competitions. It truly stands as the premier tournament in Wiltshire.
“We also enjoyed a splendid presentation and family fun day at Redland Lane in November and initiated our player partnership agreement with Mid Somerset Regional Talent Centre. This partnership allows WYFC to create more opportunities for talented players within the community, enabling them to reach their potential.
“Westbury Youth envision many of our children, in the years ahead, representing the town club, Westbury United, and continuing their football journey in various capacities.
“Last season saw significant achievements both on and off the pitch, and we are genuinely looking forward to building on that momentum,” he said. “Our objective is to make the 2024/25 season even more successful.”
WYFC operates as a non-profit club, run entirely by volunteers. To ensure continued success and development, the club is actively seeking parent volunteers. “We would be immensely grateful for the involvement of any parent volunteers, which would require approximately two hours of your time each month,” said Luke.
“Volunteers will contribute significantly to the club and its future, gaining a voice in its direction and representing the interests of parents.
“If you are interested in participating, please do not hesitate to contact me at chairman@westburyyouth.co.uk.
“Should you need to get in touch with the club, please feel free to reach out to any committee member; we are at Redland Lane almost daily and can signpost you from there or contact secretary@westburyyouth.co.uk
“Westbury Youth is football for everyone, with endless opportunities,” Luke concluded, encouraging all members of the community to get involved.
• Westbury Youth have scooped the Sustainable Club of the Year Award, for their environmentally friendly youth football tournament in the Wiltshire FA – Grassroots Football Excellence Awards.
The ceremony took place at the Village Hotel, Swindon on Friday 20 September.
Simon Russell, CEO of Wiltshire Football Association, commented: “I am delighted that Westbury Youth FC has been recognised for their efforts in making their summer tournament as green as possible. It is particularly heartening that recycling efforts are being adopted by the next generation of footballers in Wiltshire. I am also grateful to Hills Waste Solutions for sponsoring the Sustainable Club award and for their ongoing support of our Good Game initiative.”