A struggling junior football club in Bradford is appealing for sponsors to help keep it afloat, despite its young players “excelling” on the field this season.
Robert Hobson, who formed the East Bowling Allstars three years ago, said it had problems due to the economy and being forced to cancel training because of bad weather.
“We’ve had matches off, training off and on,” he said. “We’ve never had loads of money, but we’re always surviving.”
The club has a total of 55 youngsters playing for four teams, two of which are due to finish second in their leagues this season and two of which are due to finish third.
Scouts have shown interest in a number of the players, with under- 11s Zack Sangster and Tyler Marsh training with Leeds United and Mr Hobson’s son, Jordan, training with Bradford City.
Mr Hobson said he was grateful to Bradford Engine Units and Wakefield Road-based Wheelden Print for their backing, and was in talks with Bradford-based Legal Direction about sponsorship.
But the club, which trains at Bradford Academy, still needs more support to be able to keep going, he said.
“It’s just outgoings. We’ve got rent to pay, our equipment is outdated, we need sponsors to cover our equipment and kits,” said Mr Hobson. “We’re not in a position to buy any more equipment, we’re just covering our overheads at the moment.”
He said the current season had been “absolutely fantastic” for the club and the players had excelled.
But if the club had to fold, 80 per cent of the players would not be in a position to play elsewhere.
Mr Hobson said: “There’s a lot of people work very hard for this club. If the club was to have to end, it would upset a lot of people, kids, parents, coaches.
“Our policy is every kid that comes to us for training will get registered for a team and registered to play. We want everyone to have the chance to have a go. We’ve always been community-based and do the best we can for all the kids.”
Mr Hobson wants to hear from any potential sponsors or anyone who can help coach the teams. He can be contacted on 07873 711225.
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