PNE girls looking to net sponsorship deal

The Preston North End Womens JFC side which is hoping to raise money to compete overseas

A junior football team is hoping for sponsors to help them in their bid to secure Stateside success.

Preston North End Women’s JFC Under-16s are hoping to compete in next year’s Dallas International Cup, held in April.

The girls have enjoyed a trophy-laden spell since 2012, winning three age range league titles, two cups, the Lancashire FA County Cup and the Pride of Preston’s ‘Team of the Year’ title last year.

Having won the league and cup double in 2016, the players are now looking to show their skills overseas.

Manager, David Rawcliffe, said: “While at the Under-15 they won every game bar one, which they drew, and won the West Lancashire Girls League and League Cup.

“We believe this (trip) will not only help our players to further develop as footballers but also to make lifelong memories by experiencing other cultures with players from other countries, therefore helping them to develop as people.”

The trip is estimated to cost around £20,000 with each player looking to raise around £1,000 each.

To that end, a number of activities have already taken place to give that fundraising a start.

A sponsored bike ride and sponsored walk have already raised valuable funds, while a sportsman’s dinner may be another future event.

Also planned is an evening of entertainment at Deepdale Labour Club with prizes now being sought for a raffle.

A fundraising committee has been established with secretary, Stella Whalley, explaining the scale of the task in hand.

“The tournament is in April so they will have to raise a certain amount before then for the flights and to reserve their place.

“The manager is really confident because they are so good; even though they are aged 15 or 16 at the moment, they will be playing against Under-18s from September.”

Stella’s daughter, Charlotte, is one of the players hoping to go after a season in which she was named as Supporters’ Player of the Year.

She said: “I think it is going to be a once in a life time opportunity and I believe our team has achieved and worked hard enough to go and excel in Dallas. It’s a chance to represent ‘girl’s football’ and an experience that is too good to miss. I feel it will create memories and experience that I will share with everyone and hopefully encourage other young girls to play this sport, which I love.”

Anyone who would be able to help out the club can obtain further details by contacting Stella Whalley on 01772 785579 or 07936 712638.