Sign In / Register
Coast Community Trust’s latest youth programme, the Footy Night Club, provides another fun option for young people during the weekend on the Coast.
It is based on the Trust’s popular Ballers Night Club, which also uses sport (basketball) as a vehicle to develop a sense of belonging, build community and prevent harm.
Instead of basketball, youth are invited to play fun football games on a Saturday night at Millwater Hockey Turf.
The initiative was spearheaded by 17-year-old Luka Brown, who is passionate about football.
Each night involves playing social five-a-side football, pizza and a pep talk given by a community role model.
Community Programmes manager, Caitlin Watson says The Footy Night Club has gained wide community support since it was run as a trial last term.
The Hockey Hibiscus Trust, which runs the Millwater hockey turf, provides the space at minimal cost for the programme. Its chair, Merv Huxford says the Trust is delighted to see the facility used by groups like Coast Community Trust.
“The multi-purpose facility provides the opportunity to play a variety of sports and is well set up for football,” Merv says.
Dominos Whangaparāoa is providing a year’s supply of pizza for both Ballers Night Club and Footy Night Club on Friday and Saturday nights.
Currently, up to 40 young people are participating each night, which has led to a commitment to keep The Footy Night Club going for the rest of the year.
“We are excited to invite more youth to join us for some active fun on a Saturday night,” Caitlin says.
The Footy Night Club is for youth (aged 13-18) and anyone can join. Players are asked for a $2 donation per night. Info: www.coastcommunity.org.nz
