Wolves holding free football sessions for youngsters

Youngsters, aged eight to 18, have been enjoying sessions from football golf to football tennis and seven-versus-seven matches.

The initiative is being run by the Wolves Foundation - the club's charitable arm - at East Park, West Park and Bantock Park.

Carl Ackasovs, a coach and event organiser, said: "With lockdown and the way things were, we were not able to run the football sessions that we usually do.

"But with restrictions being lifted, we were looking to get people back out around the city, get people moving again, get people physical and also to get some confidence going from physical activity.

"We put these park sessions together just to get people primarily back into physical exercise."

Football golf and tennis is being held at East Park on Tuesdays from 4pm to 6pm.

Seven-a-side matches are being held at West Park on Wednesdays from 4pm to 6pm and Bantock Park on Fridays from 4pm to 6pm.

However people must book slots with club coaches beforehand.

The training session on Friday was called off due to bad weather. The next session is due to take place on Tuesday at East Park.

He continued: "The reception has been great. It has given them the opportunity to see some of their friends who they have not seen since lockdown.

"It is quite nice to see how they have taken to seeing each other again and how well they work with each other.

"They are really enjoying it."

Carl says the coaches observe strict safety guidelines implemented from the Football Association, Wolves, the Government and Wolverhampton council.

Equipment is given a thorough clean and wipe down at the end of each session.

Usually the Foundation is based at Aldersley Leisure Stadium, in Claregate, however the organisation use that site at the moment due to the pandemic, Carl added.

Anyone wishing to take part in the sessions is asked to email carlackasovs@wolves.co.uk or visit Wolves Foundation at www.wolves.co.uk/foundation or www.facebook.com/wwfcfoundation.