Sixmilebridge linking up with Leeds Utd coaching academy

A significant development in the ­promotion of underage soccer in Sixmilebridge will be cemented later in the year when the local Bridge United Schoolboys/girls’ section links up with the Leeds United coaching academy.

English Championship side Leeds United are regarded as having one of the top academies in England and thanks to the efforts of lifelong fan and Leeds Supporters Club member Kevin Greene of Feenagh, the club will send members of their coaching staff to Sixmilebridge to conduct a summer camp on June 28-29.

Former Leeds United and Northern Ireland stalwart John McClelland officially launched the summer camp when he visited the village at the weekend.

As well as winning a Premier League medal with Leeds United in 91-92, John was capped 53 times for Northern Ireland and played in two World Cups in 1982 and 1986.

At the weekend, John met with children at the registration evening at Teach Cuirte before attending a social event at The Mills Bar, where there was a question-and-answer session.

John gave a detailed insight into life as a ­professional soccer player and recalled his trials and tribulations during an illustrious career.

On Sunday, he conducted a training session with the boys’ U-14 and U-16 squads at the club grounds on the Shannon Road.

Having Leeds United on board for the summer camp is a huge fillip for the club and a sub-committee of Kevin Greene (087 2337824), Leo Murphy (087 6469743), Jonathan Downes (086 8798232) and Anne Kelly (086 2069897) are putting the finishing touches to the camp programme.

The club feels this is a huge opportunity to promote the club and improve coaching methods for the betterment of their underage players.