When 17 year-old Oliver Redd came off the bench recently to score his first Pitching In Southern League goal, he became the latest in a long line of talented teenagers to be given their chance to shine by Helston Athletic.
The Cornish club are operating at Step 4 level for the first-ever time this season and whilst recent results haven’t quite gone their way despite a bright start to the campaign, the club is making definite progress on and off the field.
Manager, Matt Cusack, has demonstrated his willingness to give youth a chance with the likes of Development players Dylan Mitchell, Regan Hull and Gregory Eastman all getting their opportunity to shine, as well as fellow teenager, Will Sullivan, a summer signing from Millbrook.
Meanwhile waiting in the wings is another exciting crop of highly-rated young players who are ready to make the step up when required, demonstrating the clear pathway that exists at Kellaway Park.
“To see so many of our youngsters getting an opportunity at first-team level this season is encouraging and validates the hard work we are doing within the Development section,” said Development team manager, Dan Búa. “The lads who have been given opportunities within the first team are there purely on merit, it’s their hard work, dedication and commitment which has got them there.
“Of course, these lads are all talented, but it takes much more than talent alone. We have to manage expectations, keep them grounded but at the same time motivated.
“Obviously the first-team are going through a sticky patch in terms of results at the moment, but the Gaffer is a top-class operator and I have no doubt that he and the lads will hit form again in what is a highly competitive Division One South."
It’s not only on the pitch where the building work for the future is taking place, it’s also happening off-the-field with various stadium improvement projects taking place.
“We’re making great strides with our facility improvements,” added Chairman, Paul Hendy. “There are a number of projects ongoing at the moment, including new spectator toilets, new grandstand, turnstiles and pitch barrier infill.
“It’s been hard work and there have been logistical challenges such as the weather and things like that, but we’re getting there and are on course to have this phase of works complete over the next few weeks.
“This club has come a long way in such a short space of time but we’re extremely proud of where we are and the progress that has been made across the whole club. There is still a lot more to be done, of course, but we’ll keep driving things forward and take everything that comes our way in our stride.
“These are exciting times at all levels.”
The team return to home soil on Saturday by welcoming Bemerton Heath Harlequins.
IMAGE: TB Photography
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