A sporting occasion for youngsters at Bowlee

Fothergill Falcons Under 9s - Tournament Runners-Up

Councillor for Smallbridge amp; Firgrove Jean Ashworth was impressed by the sporting behaviour of young footballers at the annual Mini Soccer Seven-a-Side Tourament held at Bowlee football pitches off Heywood Old Road. The Councillor was pleased to see all the players shake hands at the end of games, regardless of the result or what had happened in each match and said that some adults could learn from the youngsters' example.

Writing in her Rochdale Online Councillor Diary, Councillor Ashworth said: "We have some absolutely fantastic youth in all of our areas and to see so many come together and really enjoy themselves is a treat on its own, but to see them at the end of the tournament 'shake hands win or lose' is heartwarming and one some of us adults should take on board."

Mrs Ashworth's grandson plays for Rochdale based junior football under-nines side Fothergill Falcons and they reached the final of the tournament, having won all of their games. They did not quite manage to lift the cup, losing out 2-0 in the final despite their best efforts, but all of the players went home with runners-up trophies and with smiles on their faces after a great day out.

"The organisers of this tournament at Bowlee should be applauded for the excellent organisation and hard work they put into this very special and worthwhile event, and for the work they do all year round - as do the managers of the Fothergill Falcons", said Councillor Ashworth.

To read Jean Ashworth's diary in full visit:
Councillor Diary - Jean Ashworth