JERSEY will enter the South West Counties Championship for the third time next season while the Island’s under-18s footballers will play in the SWCC Mick Parry KO Cup for the first time.
Jersey Football Association officials made the decisions last night at their monthly Council meeting held at Springfield Stadium.JFA president Charlie Tostevin said: ‘Jersey football has progressed since we entered the South West Counties two years ago and to continue that progression we have to continue to play in the championship next season.’We’ve given the U18s permission to enter the Mick Parry Cup as well and that will be at least one more game for them.
It is difficult getting funds at present but we will continue to make every effort to find a sponsor for the senior team.’The U18s will continue to raise funds and if there is a shortfall we will help make it up.’Entering both competitions is expensive but we have to have continuity for the players.
The Juniors will get good competition and when they move out of the age group they will have the senior championship as their next goal.’Jersey manager Dave Matthews said: ‘I’m delighted, it’s a brilliant decision for Jersey football all round.
Gone now are the days when players only had to play well in January, February and March to get into the Muratti squad.’With five Championship games to look forward too next season players will now have to kick off the season on the ball and that can only be beneficial for their clubs.’We’re improving all the time and there is now a pinnacle for the younger players to aspire to.’I have a few ideas to help raise some money for the team and when next season’s squad of 30 or so is selected I’ll be putting my ideas to the players.’Jon Welsh was unavailable for comment this morning.
Article posted on 9th March, 2004 - 12.00am
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