SLIDESHOW: IFA Nutty Krust Summer Camp

A mixture of sunshine, and showers provided a stiff challenge for the coaching staff, as all age groups benefited from the wide variety of fun and games for all players present.

Coach coordinator Ian Getty said “When you have such a range in age groups as we had last week, then it really does challenge the coaching staff, considering the sessions lasted three hours each day, for five days but I’m pleased to say that our coaches have mastered the art of combining fun activities and good football coaching.

“I have no doubt that every person attending the camp had become a better player by the end of the week.

“Already people have been making enquiries about registering for the next IFA Nutty Krust summer holiday camp, beginning Monday 17th August.”

This year’s event was tinged with sadness, with the absence of the Wesley Gregg, the IFA grassroots development officer, who passed away suddenly, only two months ago.

Wes really did mastermind the entire Summer, Halloween and Easter camp format in Ballymena and surrounding areas.

Maurice McDowell, local IFA primary school coach and joint coordinator said: “We couldn’t believe the number of parents and players who mentioned the fact that Wes was no longer with us but they were here to show their support for his legacy.”

A fitting tribute was the one minute’s applause held by all present, for Wes, at the conclusion of the week’s camp.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council, Billy Ashe attended the activities and help present the free Adidas ball and Free Nutty Krust goodie bag to the players taking part.