Training and next season

Pre-season training - Sunday 11th July 2010

Altitude, vuvuzelas and the most perfectly round footballs ever. Three things Banter won’t have to worry about in 2010/11, thank goodness.

The box, waterlogged pitches and John Ruskin. Three things we do have to worry about.

Worry again at 11am, Sunday 11th July at Sanderstead rec. Or at least not worry and just turn up. For that is the date that pre-season training begins.

Last year, having started in early July, we went in prepared and got the season off to an absolute flier, looked well drilled and got some good wins under our belts early doors. We will be hoping for the same again this time, with plenty of the usual training drills, plus a chance to tighten up in areas of weakness as a team from last term.

Training will be every Sunday at 11am and every Thursday at 7pm, at Sanderstead rec. As with last year, I will be leaving it to you to let me know if you are unable to attend a session and if I hear nothing will be assuming your attendance is confirmed. It's important I know beforehand for numbers and not having to wait around for people. If you wish to bring guests, this is encouraged as it always has been.

Attendance, along with effort, good fitness and of course form on a match day have always been key to Banter's selection policy and 2010/11 will be no different. As promised (and hopefully kept!?) last season, rotation will be a factor should the same faces show up every single time and give it their all.

I think it worked for the most part last season and everybody took their turn on the sidelines, without exception. As an individual I recommend plenty more of the same and as a team, we have a few creases to iron out but we should be positive following a successful campaign last time out.

Drills, exercises, or any areas to work on are always welcomed from all, either speak up on the day or let me know your thoughts or feedback.

Money

Unfortunately, the club also needs money. Those who want to play next season will therefore be asked to pay £25 towards the club in order to cover the cost of league entry, Surrey FA affiliation, Surrey Cup entry, equipment, as well as pitch hire - which is going to be asked for a number of weeks in advance this time so I need to make sure we're covered.

You can pay in cash, cheque (to Banter Central Football Club) or direct bank transfer (Account: 31084923, Sort Code: 560046) - I have no preference. Please let me know if you do make a transaction so I know who has paid what.

Friendlies

I'll be looking to organise friendlies throughout pre-season, perhaps one at the end of July and one in August, with one or two just before the season start (the date of which is yet to be confirmed). AFC Hamsey and Croydon Postal are more than likely to be asked, both of which offer good competition.

The clubhouse

I mentioned this last time and when I did so, it was my own suggestion - that is we should be drinking in our clubhouse after games. Now though, it has been raised by the guys at the ground and I think we should take it seriously. I know you want to rush off and play with your fanny, but they pay staff and they keep it open, we should utilise it. I may start up a £1 nominal fine for those unable to come in afterwards (this was suggested some time back for lateness, incorrect kit etc too), but we'll discuss that later.

I look forward to next season a lot. Lets take another step up and go and win something!