Published: 13 August, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

THE manager of a top football youth club is calling on local businesses to step in and support the grassroots of the game and help drive down the escalating costs being passed on to parents. 

Former Nottingham Forrest trainee Sebastian Eurico bounced back from the disappointment of being released by the Championship Club last year by launching his very own club, Camden Elite. 

Aimed at supporting “children who deserve a chance but simply can’t afford it”, the project is going from strength-to-strength with players and coaches alike prepare for the new season in the Camden and Islington Midweek Youth League and the Camden and Regent’s Park Youth League. 

Sebastian revealed that he didn’t realise there were so many hidden costs in running a club, including kits, hiring pitches for training, paying for match days, referees and equipment. Thankfully the Islington-based Tool Shop Group stepped in to sponsor one of the club’s age groups, and now Sebastian is urging other companies to follow their lead. “I really appreciate Tool Shop supporting us. They’re our first ever sponsor and have made a big difference,” said the 20-year-old. 

“The more money we can get from outside sources, the less we can charge the kids. It’s that simple. 

“Over the summer we’ve had a few parents telling us that their children might not come back this season because they simply can’t afford it. We’re trying to do our best to support them and find a solution but there’s only so much we can do. 

“Obviously if a company sponsors us and we put their logo on our kits there’s a commercial benefit for them, but it’s about more than that,” added Sebastian. “It’s about sponsoring your local clubs and giving back to the community, like the Tool Shop have done. If more businesses do that then they’ll be helping to keep children off the streets and enjoying their football. That’s priceless.” 

Visit www.camdeneliteacademy.co.uk to find out more about Camden Elite and the club’s goals for the coming season.