Football: Cookstown Youth FC to develop senior team

A statement from the club read: “In November Cookstown Youth FC sanctioned a sub-committee to be formed to research the viability of forming an adult team for the club.

“This senior team would facilitate players to develop and progress from youth to adult level without having to join another team, the transition from youth to senior smoother.

“This would give our players something to aim for in an environment to which they are used, with the same codes of conduct and officials. We believe that this is vital for us as a club and more importantly for our players and their future.”

The statement continued: “We’re pleased to announce that the sub-committee’s hard work and many meetings and discussions have culminated with a presentation to the club committee and members, which included important topics such as finances and manpower - and the committee of CYFC have given their blessing to make further plans for this exciting chapter in our club’s history.

“Nothing is set in stone as yet. However, should our club be accepted into a competitive senior league, we hope to progress this venture at the first possible opportunity .

“We feel this is the way forward, but also realise it is a massive step and a change of focus from a youth only organisation to senior as well as youth.

“We are confident everyone involved with Cookstown Youth FC will support us in any way they can and hope that in making this step we secure the future of our great club and become even stronger and more successful.

“Our main goal will be to bring our youth through and make sure they continue to play and develop their talents for many years to come.”