The founder of St Mary’s Juniors FC has officially been appointed president, marking his return to the club after a 17 year absence. Tommy Kelly was introduced to the players and volunteer coaches, managers and officials at B.A.F.C.’s Heritage Park ground on Saturday 22nd March. George Nicholson has also been appointed as vice-president but couldn’t make the photo call due to work commitments.
“It was a great turn out with lots of the players from 3-16 year-olds and coaches turning up for the photo call,” said club spokesperson, Steve Coulthard.
Tommy originally founded the club in 1986 when, walking home fron St. Mary’s R.C. Church, he saw some young footballers kicking a ball about and was inspired to start the club. He said, “At the time I was convalescing from an accident and I noticed this group of about 20 youngsters kicking a ball around. I asked them if they fancied a game and I refereed.” George Nicholson got on board in 1988 and helped for over 20 years.
With the help of Bishop Auckland College, St. John’s R.C. School, Bishop Barrington, Fred and Angela Anderson, Tony Davis, Graham Sheldon, Rob Bowron, Jackie Cleminson, Andy Fletcher, Emma Pennington, Wil Blacklock and lots of other officials, managers, coaches and secretaries, it has now developed into one of the largest clubs in the county with 18 teams.
Steve went on to say, “We have been wanting to do this for some time. We have made Tommy our president but some people don’t know him or where the club came from.”
The club are currently looking to increase their girl’s section. Find out more by visiting www.basmj.net.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
