TWENTY-four young girls took up the offer of a free football festival organised by Cheltenham Spa Ladies FC on Saturday at All Saints' Academy.
Former Robins captain Shane Duff was on hand to offer some tips to the girls while FA Tesco Skills coach Abbie Sadler set up a variety of fun activities, ball skills and small-sided games.
Club welfare and development officer, Gary Goodhall, said: "It was fantastic to see so many new girls getting together and enjoying each other's company while working really hard, to improve their ball skills and fitness, during the two-hour session. "We have to thank the Football Foundation for the Grow the Game grant we received to help boost participation of eight to 12-year-old girls in the Cheltenham area."
The club continues to work hard to develop the girls game in the county and sees about 70 club players training regularly on a Tuesday evening from 6pm to 7pm at Swindon Village playing fields.
Club secretary, Guy Stirling Lee, said: "We also try to keep them having fun away from the competitive side of League football.
"On Saturday, for example members of the Under-14 Girls side were kindly invited, by Paul Baker and CTFC, to Whaddon Road to watch the Robin's game against the Gills.
"We wanted to offer the girls a reward for their hard work over the winter as they, along with Under-12s, have won the Gloucester County Girls League title without losing a match all season."
Although the season is coming to an end, they are always looking to recruit girls over the summer in preparation for next season.
If you're interested in getting into football with your local club contact Gary Goodhall on 01242 228559.
