Ball boys/girls and Flag Bearers earn plenty of praise...
LAST week, Walsall FC were proud hosts of The FA for three UEFA Under-19 Championship Elite Group qualifiers.It all started with England’s resounding 6-0 success against Montenegro and was followed by a 4-0 victory for Ukraine over Montenegro, who then went on to beat Scotland by one goal to nil in the third and final game.
Pupils from Chase View Primary School in Rugeley and Holy Name Primary School in Great Barr had a key role in the proceedings as ball boys/girls and flag bearers.
The youngsters were specially chosen by the Walsall FC Community Programme for the excellent way that they had carried out similar duties for The Saddlers during the course of last season.
“We chose the youngsters because they have always been reliable, well-behaved and done a great job for us in the past,” said Community Manager, Adam Davy. “They really enjoyed the experience and helped make all three games run smoothly.
“The opening game was played in pouring rain for the most part, but the youngsters were thrilled by the experience of being involved in an England International match.
“They were treated as an integral part of it from the moment they arrived at the stadium and were guided by The FA throughout. At the end they got to meet the England players and received a commemorative pennant each.
“For the other games, with smaller crowds, it meant more work for the ball boys as they regularly had to go into the stands to retrieve the ball. But they loved it and were delighted to meet the players and officials of Montenegro, Ukraine and Scotland at the end of each game.
“It’s been a fantastic experience for all concerned and we would like to thank Chase View Primary School and Holy Name Primary School for their support in this and praise the attitude of all the youngsters involved.
“It all helped Walsall FC make a very positive impression on the International stage.”