Fifth of its kind

Last weekend saw the Peterborough & District Junior Alliance League gain national status by becoming just the fifth of its kind in England to gain The FA’s Charter Standard League award.

Peterborough United’s top-scorer Craig Mackail-Smith was on hand to present the league with their award, along with Northamptonshire FA Chief Executive David Payne, who handed over a £1000 cheque to aid the further development of the league structure.

The league’s Chairman and Secretary, husband and wife, David and Hazel Burgess have been at the forefront of their successful push for the national kitemark, as well as a number of devoted committee members.

The award was made because at least 60 per cent of the league’s teams have received the national Charter Standard kitemark, meaning they have reached the required amount of FA-qualified coaches, Welfare Officers, club policies and more.

This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering that the league operates 22 tables which encompasses a huge 215 teams.

Kirsty Frior, County Development Manager of the Northamptonshire FA, who has been closely assisting the league towards this achievement, was delighted to be there for Sunday’s presentation.

“Working with the extremely passionate Hazel Burgess, and her committee throughout the process has been a delightful experience,” she said.

“Her enthusiasm makes her a perfect role-model at grassroots level, and the future of youth football within Peterborough is in good hands.”

Also on hearing about this level of commitment at youth football level, Peterborough United manager Darren Ferguson was eager to gives his views.

“Football at this level simply could not continue without the time and effort put in by the likes of the Peterborough & District Youth Alliance League, especially that of Mrs. Burgess,” he said.

“Her passion for the sport is a joy to see, and I’m delighted to hear volunteers within our region developing young players at such a high-level, which in turn is fantastic news for  Peterborough United FC.”