SOME of Launceston’s young football stars of the future will be looking the part when they take to the field thanks to new match day kits.

Southgate Colts FC U10s have received brand-new match day shirts, shorts and socks for the season, courtesy of Specsavers Launceston, whose director Carla Thomas said she felt it was important to help grassroots football clubs, many of which often struggle for funding.

Southgate Colts FC began life in 1988 and now has 300 players at various age groups, for boys and girls.

Carla Barnard, the club’s chair, said: “We’re really grateful to Specsavers Launceston for this sponsorship. The club can’t afford kits because the other costs we have mean that we just about break even, so donations like this from our local Specsavers store are essential.

“Matt Hodgetts, who coaches the U10s, and our other coaches are all volunteers and have to find sponsors, which isn’t always easy. All our coaches do an amazing job, and without them we simply wouldn’t be able to provide what we do for the young players.

“Grassroots football is so important for young people. They learn about responsibility, respect for each other and their opponents, the joy of winning as well as humility when losing, and there’s also an important social element.”

Southgate Colts FC is one of the largest youth sports clubs in Cornwall, with teams starting from Mini Kickers through to Launceston Football Clubs Development Team.

Carla, director at Specsavers Launceston, added: “Sport for young people is something we should all be passionate about. It promotes good health, gets them out in the fresh air, and teaches them about teamwork and understanding.

“Southgate Colts FC are doing a fantastic job for young boys and girls, and we’re delighted to be able to sponsor them. They clearly really enjoy themselves and there’s some impressive talent among them.”