Heaton Stannington project given 'phenomenal' boost by community grant

Chris Davison has been instrumental in overseeing the rise of the North Tyneside outfit’s junior section since it launched in 2023, rising from an initial five teams to 29 in the space of three years.

The Futbol Mundial Academy, a holiday club which combines football sessions with classroom activities, was launched ahead of last October’s half-term and a cash boost from the Trident Community Foundation has helped it go to another level over Easter.

“It couldn’t have come at a better time, it was like when stars align,” he said.

“This money has allowed us to bring in an additional three coaches, which in effect means an extra 35 children we wouldn’t have been able to cater for otherwise.

“We have also been able to buy equipment, additional stationery, advertising materials such as pull-up banners and flags, it looks established and professional, we have an identity.

“It now reflects the amount of effort and planning that has gone on behind the scenes. It has been fantastic and we have seen the difference instantly.”

The Trident Community Foundation was launched in 2020 by Northern Premier League partners Pitching In and offers grants of between £1,000-£5,000 to clubs at Steps 3 and 4 of the non-League pyramid to grow and expand community projects.

More than £700,000 has been awarded to clubs across the country and The Stan hope their impact locally will continue to go from strength to strength.

“It is a snowball effect – once you start building like this, as long as you’ve got the fundamentals in place, as I think we have, it will get bigger and better,” Davison said.

“We wanted to help kids in lower demographic areas who might not be able to go away to fancy places during the holidays and may otherwise just be sat at home on iPads.

“Getting this far wouldn’t have been possible this early on without that grant. Being a voluntary organisation, it is very hard to get things off the ground. This boost in the bank has been phenomenal.”

The Stan have also benefitted from a Premier League grant for ground improvements, which saw Newcastle United legends Shay Given and Shola Ameobi drop in to Grounsell Park.

“Without grants like this, clubs wouldn’t exist,” Davison added. “There is only so much you can do with passion and voluntary time. Things still cost money so to have these grants allows people to continue volunteering, giving their time and boosting the community.”

Find volunteering opportunities near you: https://pitchinginvolunteers.co.uk/