United Youth Academy kids enjoy Rangers trip

United were contacted a number of weeks ago to see if they would be interested in sending two of the junior sides over and on the day an under 8’s side along with an under 9 team played a number of games against the Gers.

The Braid boys enjoyed a tour of the great facilities with Rangers Youth coach Gregg Statt as guide.

Amazingly the games were played in dry weather,and as always the Sky Blues acquitted themselves well, cheered on by a good turnout of enthusiastic parents and friends.

Three more games against Belfast side Tullycarnett followed for each side before a quick exit and return journey for the ferry home.

A tiring but highly enjoyable day for all the boys who travelled and one to tell their friends about.

Many thanks for trip organiser and Rangers Northern Ireland scout Phil Cowan for all his help and to shirt sponsor, The Walter Young Group in Broughshane.

Following on from various excursions to Holland and Sunderland for other Sky Blue youth sides this year and with more trips in the pipeline, the Academy continues to showcase the Ballymena name, developing the football skills of the town’s top young players alongside this.

Under 8 squad: Cameron Bingham, Jonny Douglas, Caleb Stewart, Shane McKenna, Adam Watterson,Lewis Tennant, Joe Blair, Daniel Kearney, Dylan McCallum, Matthew Millar, Josh Schnell

Under 9 squad: Andrew Lawther, Robbie Ritchie, Sam Millar, Robbie Gilchrist, Matthew Byrne, Bradley McCartney, Joel Clarke, Sam Stewart, Seanie McIntosh, Richard Millar, Connor Louw.

GOLF DAY APPROACHES

On Friday 6th July the Academy holds it’s golf day at Galgorm Castle starting at 1pm.

With an excellent reponse already,there are still 4 ball spaces available for what should be another enjoyable occasion.

All those interested should contact Academy secretary and star golfer Phillip Galloway on 07759601100.