Blues raise the bar after FA award

Ambitious officials at Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Frickley Athletic have announced that they are aiming to become a Football Association Charter Standard Development Club.

In December the Premier Division’s Blues achieved the first rung on the governing body’s charter standard ladder when they were awarded FA Charter Standard Adult Club status.

Following that achievement and the launch of their Academy, officials now want to take the next step up. Ultimately, Westfield Lane could go on to reach the highest level and become an FA Charter Community Club.

Frickley Athletic Secretary Steve Pennock said: "Everyone here is really pleased and proud to have achieved FA Charter Standard Adult Club status. With this being the FA’s benchmark for standards of coaching, administration and child welfare it is great that Frickley Athletic have proved that we more than conform to these standards. Now, with our recently formed Academy set-up, we will be looking to progress to FA Charter Standard Development Club in the future."

Club development is an integral part of the FA’s National Game Strategy and the Evo-Stik NPL is encouraging all its members to achieve the minimum benchmark in order to eventually become an FA Charter Standard League.

The Blues are following in the footsteps of a host of other Evo-Stik NPL clubs to earn accreditation towards the end of 2013. Buxton, Ilkeston FC, Matlock Town, Brigg Town, Gresley, Salford City and Wakefield were among those who passed the FA’s strict criteria in the final three months of the year by demonstrating their on-going commitment to raise standards and provide positive experiences for players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers alike.