England and Arsenal football legend, Kelly Smith MBE, has devised the coaching and skills routines for the new Mitre Football Academy, which is available on all three of Butlin’s seaside resorts (Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness) during 2018.
Kelly – whose 46 England goals during 117 caps is a national scoring record – spent time with Butlin’s FA Level 2 qualified coaches during the winter to create a programme of training that will help Butlin’s guests learn new skills during their break.
A global survey in 2016 showed British children are among the least active in the world, with only 15% of girls and 22% of boys managing the Government advice of at least one hour of moderate exercise per day – therefore Butlin’s are working with Kelly and Mitre to try and encourage youngsters to get active as part of their family break.
“As a Mum and former professional player myself, I believe in the importance of having active children and helping them hone their skills and learn new ones,” said Kelly. “I hope the Mitre Football Academies allow children to enjoy football during their break at Butlin’s, and go home with new skills to put into good use when they play in school and club matches.”
Sessions will be limited 20 children with two coaches per session, meaning the children will get detailed and personalised coaching. At the start of the first session, each child will receive a Mitre bag, water bottle, and a drill card to take home so they can continue to work on the skills and techniques. They also receive a certificate upon completion of the two sessions.
Mitre Football Academy sessions take place on astroturf pitches, cost £15 per child and are split into two age categories: 5 to 7-year-olds, and 8 to 12-year-olds. They can be booked in advance by calling 0330 100 6654.
“Offering families the chance to participate in sports and leisure, and possibly learn some new skills, has always been an important element of a Butlin’s break,” said Butlin’s Managing Director, Dermot King. “We are delighted to be working with a legendary player such as Kelly Smith, and a world-famous sports brand like Mitre: their involvement is a great addition to our existing high-quality range of activities.”
Donna Smith, Mitre’s Brand Activation Manager, said: “We’re delighted to announce this partnership with Butlin’s which allows us to continue our support of grassroots and junior football within the UK. Butlin’s is inclusive of all ages, genders and abilities and their values are very much aligned to ours. The partnership will enhance the fantastic coaching sessions already in place at the venues with high-quality footballs, equipment and coaching available at every session.”
To learn more about the football coaching sessions available at Butlin’s visit: https://www.butlins.com/where-to-stay-dine-and-play/where-to-play/football-coaching.aspx