The Birth of Church Farm FC
04 Jul 2008

Church Farm Football Academy was set up originally by Mr David Finch in October 2006 after many months of
research and advertising. It was found through his research that there were very little sporting opportunities in the Burntwood area for children within the 4-6 age categories. As an experienced teacher himself, he was fully aware of the governments initiatives being run through schools to encourage Healthy Lifestyles and Physical Recreation and was committed to supporting this, as he has two young children himself. Being a Parent Governor at Fulfen Primary
School, in Burntwood he found that there was real demand for a Football Club as many parents had to travel a
distance to find suitable recreation for their children. Even in these cases, many children couldnt settle in unfamiliar surroundings with children they didnt know.
Pamphlets were produced and distributed around the local primary schools to confirm the findings of the research and
35 places were snapped up within two weeks, as well as a reserve list of 7. Along with the enthusiasm from the parents and children, we also had adult volunteers including two additional committed Football Coaches, a Secretary &
Treasurer and two General Assistants.
Conversations then took place with Staffordshire Football Association for advice on best practices in setting up a successful Football Club and two of the three coaches then enrolled and completed the FA Coaching Level one course, which included a First Aid and Child Protection workshop. The local council were also spoken to, of whom were very keen on the idea and advised us of our Venues. The booking of Hospital Road Football Pitches for use during the summer months and Norton Canes High School Sports hall during the winter months was completed, as we plan to continue throughout the whole year. A lump sum of money was then contributed by the founder to enable the clubs initial set up, course costs, administration and equipment.
All FA recommended Policies and Procedures were then developed and agreed and CRB disclosure checks were then applied for. And the rest as they say, is history...