A chance to be part of Spartans’ big plans for the future

AFTER a busy yet somewhat disappointing 2017 campaign, the off season is coming to an end for the Halton Spartans.

With players and coaches alike well rested, attentions are already turning to not only the 2018 season, but the future of the Spartans as a whole.

As a result, a youth organisation is being created enabling youngsters from in and around Halton who are aged 13-18 to try their hand at the sport.

The hope is with enough interest from boys and girls in the area, two teams can be fielded at youth and junior level, competing alongside the senior squad in 2018.

As the growth of the sport within the UK continues, the Spartans believe the best way to secure the future of the club going forward is to invest in local youth who would eventually become fully-fledged senior players once they reach senior age. Youth try-outs are to be held at their Wilmere Lane training pitch on October 21 and 28 from 10am-12pm.

The preparations don’t stop there, however, with plans being laid down for the senior roster next season.

Ian Beattie is to remain as head coach, with Simon Grice retaining the defensive coordinator position.

The offence, however, will now be led by Doug Laughton. A former safety for the Spartans, Laughton is hoping to instil a new philosophy and get the team’s talented offence firing on all cylinders once more.

To bolster the roster for next year, open try-outs are again being held in November. Halton will be on the lookout for new talent on the November 12 at Wilmere Lane, November 19 at De La Salle in St Helens and again at Wilmere Lane on November 26. All try-outs will start at 10am and finish at 1pm.

Spartans general manager, Ian Derbyshire, is excited for what lies ahead.

He said: “The work and preparation that has gone into the club during the off season has been unparalleled. We believe the introduction of our youth system not only gives young people a fantastic opportunity to get involved in this great sport, but also secures our future success competing in the national leagues.

“Furthermore, the effort going into improving our senior set up is sure to see some reward in the near future.” ● If you would like to get involved with Halton’s American football team, you can contact them via any of their social media outlets.