SML clubs grateful to sponsors

Jackston Ewart and Colin Rainey, from Randalstown FC (Division 3 winners) and Garry Bonnes and his son Parker, from Harryville Homers (Division 1 winners) at the launch of the Ballymena Saturday Morning League with league sponsor representative Donald Crawford of Firmus Energy. Included are league officials Davy King (Chairman) and Brian Montgomery (Secretary). INBT34-222AC

If sponsorship is vital across football at a whole, nowehere is that more apparent than at the most local of levels.

For many clubs, they simply could not function without the support and backing of their loyal sponsors.

Clubs in the Ballymena Saturday Morning League are particularly fortunate to enjoy the backing of local companies and individuals who are willing to invest in sport at a local level.

Whether it is a match ball, tracksuits or a team kit - or by supporting a team via another means of fund-raising such as a quiz - every little gesture is crucial to clubs in order to help them put a team on the pitch.

At this early stage of the season, clubs are only too willing to ensure that the people who support them receive the publicity they deserve.

In this special Times Sport picture feature, we take a look at some of the Morning League clubs who are benefitting from the generosity of those who provide sponsorship for them.