Bradley Stoke U16s looking good for the new season

After a promising pre-season Bradley Stoke Youth U16s coach, Simon Bryant has high-hopes for the 2019/20 season.

The U16s finished mid-table in Division 2 of the Avon Youth League last year and Simon is looking for an improvement this time around.

“If we finish anywhere in the top half this season, that’d be brilliant,” said Simon.

“Finishing in the top three would be superb, but if boys are playing with smiles on their faces and achieving what we’ve practiced in training – that’s a result for me.”

A credit to their community

The team’s sponsored training tops were presented at the Patchway Sports Centre by the Trust’s Catering Development Manager, Adrian Kirikmaa.

“We’re really pleased to be sponsoring the U16s and we wish them every success for the coming season,” said Adrian.

“Simon has been coaching them since they were Under 7s and it’s great to see the close friendships that have developed between the boys over that time.

“Simon and his coaching team have not only produced a group of very talented footballers, but they’ve also helped them grow up to be young men who are a credit to their local community.”

Club Captain and Central Defender, Owen Robertson said: “On behalf of the team, I’d like to thank the St Monica Trust for providing us with these great looking tops.

“Normally we all turn up in different tops and coats, so to get a matching set of tracksuit tops makes us look really professional.”

Hope for the coming season

A recent pre-season friendly in which Bradley Stoke beat a Division 1 team gives Simon and his coaching staff plenty of hope for the coming season.

“They’re a team we hadn’t beaten for a number of years and a few eyebrows were raised when I arranged the fixture with them.

“I always think it’s better to measure your development against a good team rather than a weak one.

“I wanted to know how they’ve developed and if they’re ready for coming season. Based on that performance they are.”

Start of a long relationship

The St Monica Trust runs five retirement communities across Bristol and North Somerset. It’s newest development, The Chocolate Quarter in Keynsham has facilities which are open to public and encourages interaction between all ages.

Adrian, who created B Block pizzeria at The Chocolate Quarter, said: “We hope this is the start of a long relationship with the team and look forward to them visiting us at B Block when they’re playing in Keynsham.

“We’ve got some very knowledgeable football fans among our residents and I’m sure they’ll be very interested in hearing how the team are getting on as the season progresses.”

Open from 7.30am until 9.30pm daily, B Block serves authentic wood fired pizzas, the best coffee from local roasters Brian Wogan and a range of salads, paninis, baguettes and mouth-watering pastries. For more information follow the restaurant on social media @BBlockPizza on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit www.b-blockpizza.co.uk.