A CARING Evesham volunteer hit the back of the net and helped spread the love of the beautiful game to youngsters in the Gambia.
In 2015, Evesham United juniors co-ordinator Dave Giles was asked by a relative to travel to the African country and help coach football at a school near Banjul.
Following his retirement as a bank manager, the caring Vale resident jumped at the chance to get some sunshine and spend some time coaching eager youngters.
Since his initial visit, Dave has been three times and built a relationship with the school and the children and plans to go twice a year in March and November coaching four days a week for four weeks.
The school is St Peters Basic juniors and Dave admitted the school had no footballs, kit, boots, cones or first aid kits when he first arrived.
Over the last three years Dave has built up kit and equipment at the school thanks to Evesham United where staff have collected old kits and balls to ensure kick off at the school.
Dave is set to jet off again in March and hopes residents to help him once again score success.
“It’s costly to take luggage on the plane as you know, and it’s carting the cases around,” he said.
“The school and children are really grateful for whatever is donated.
“They all want to come to practice with at least 50 kids coming to the sessions for two hours and they love their football.
“I have passed on the gratitude they have shown to Evesham United and their thanks for their continued support in helping set up this worthwhile tie up with the school.”
“Thanks to our sponsors whose kit sponsorship is not only worn by Evesham United juniors, but it has an extended life in Gambia and everyone appreciates the help.”
