Council Leader Meets SFA Development Squad

Scottish Borders Council Leader, David Parker met the SBC’s SFA Development Squad at Netherdale today (8 August) to congratulate them on their recent debut as ball boys at the Hearts v Barcelona game which took place at Murrayfield on 28 July.

Renowned Hearts fan, Councillor Parker met the youngsters during a busy Summer SFA Coaching day in Galashiels to hear all about their experiences at one of the biggest international football matches Edinburgh has ever hosted.

"I was delighted to meet the squad to hear about their experience at Murrayfield”, explained Councillor Parker, “It was a wonderful privilege for the boys to be asked to take part in such a huge event and they must be very proud of themselves for being such great ambassadors for the Borders”.

The opportunity for the Borders youngsters to work at the game came about through the Heart of Midlothian Education and Community Trust’s Programme Manager, Alan White.  Alan contacted SFA Development Officer, Drew Kelly and asked him to supply ten boys from the Scottish Borders SFA Development squad to work alongside two Borders players already selected to work as ball boys for the forthcoming season at Hearts.

“The 12 Borders boys joined 14 boys from the SFA Midlothian Development Squad at Murrayfield on the Wednesday before the game, to have a run through their duties for the day” explained Drew, “At the end of the game the ball boys had a unique opportunity to meet the stars from the Barcelona Squad and get their autographs”.

Whilst visiting Netherdale, Councillor Parker had the opportunity to witness the hugely successful SFA Summer Coaching sessions in action. The sessions organised by SBC’s SFA Development unit have been running over the summer holidays providing opportunities for youngsters of all ages to take part in a variety of courses such as the SFA Mini Kickers, SFA Football First and SFA Premier Performers Courses.

For further information please contact Drew Kelly 01896 756274 or email dkelly@scotborders.gov.uk.