STOCKBRIDGE FC players Colin Vince and Dave Allen have been running the Andover Leisure Centre (ALC) Football Coaching Academy in association with their Kick-a-About Football Coaching Services since developing their teaching skills working in America with one of the leading coaching companies based in New York.

The two young football coaches were part of the ALC coaching team for over two years before they went to America and when they returned they both completed their university studies in sport and recreation before taking over the running of the coaching academy at the ALC.

They now have over 150 youngsters from the ages from 3 to 10 years each week attending their popular training sessions at the ALC, as well as running their own successful coaching business that takes them to all parts of the country.

Through their coaching experience in the UK and America they have developed a unique style of teaching that has proved extremely popular with young children, with the focus primarily on learning the game by having fun.

Special sessions are held for the younger age groups, which include a themed 'adventure story book' style development programme that shows the football mad youngsters just how much fun they can have as well as help to improve their football skills.

Children over six years follow a similar programme to suit their particular age and ability and the local coaches will be starting their new programme at the ALC in January, and anyone requiring further details can contact them on 01264 324144, 07748 954699 or 07876 11244.

As well at the coaching academy, the ALC can also arrange football parties, holiday camps, school and group bookings with the Kick-a-About Football Coaching Services and anyone requiring any of these options can contact Vince and Allen on the telephone numbers as above.