Inverness Caley Thistle Manager Terry Butcher swapped Caley Stadium for Carse Park today (August 3rd) to launch Sportability Merkinch in Inverness.
This is a major initiative to improve sports opportunities for young people in Merkinch. The project, run by The Merkinch Partnership, got underway with a £20,000 donation from Albyn Housing Society’s Wider Role Fund - a fund made possible by the Scottish Government, which supports disadvantaged families in vulnerable communities.
Sportability Merkinch will recruit and train up to 50 volunteers in sports coaching. Participants will be able to work towards government-recognised qualifications and take part in child protection courses.
Cairn Housing Association also supports the scheme and both housing associations will refer tenants who might be potential volunteers.
The result will be better sports opportunities and facilities for youngsters in Merkinch, which is something Terry Butcher is very keen to support. Interested locals will soon have greater access to football, cycling and other team games.
Calum Macaulay, Chief Executive of Albyn Housing Society, said: “We are honoured to be involved with Sportability Merkinch. This worthwhile project not only improves training and social skills for volunteers, but also provides sports facilities, equipment and resources to deliver sporting opportunities to young, vulnerable teenagers.”
Terry Butcher agrees. He said: “I am delighted to be involved with this programme. Sport builds confidence and is extremely beneficial to self esteem. It also helps to cut down anti social behaviour. Volunteers within this project will reap the health benefits and gain excellent qualifications."
The launch of Sportability Merkinch follows a recent community survey in the area, which highlighted the need for improved sports facilities, more sport and fitness, as well as more activities for teenagers.
