Exciting Developments at Marine in the Community (MITC)
We’re delighted to announce that after months of hard work, we’ve reached our £70,000 goal to build a brand-new community hub at the ground! This incredible achievement was made possible through fundraising dinners, half marathons, generous donations, and grants. A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who supported us on this journey. The new hub is on track to open by New Year 2025, creating a space where everyone can enjoy expanded activities and support.
Our mission is to serve all ages—from 5 to 95—by offering health initiatives, educational programs, tackling antisocial behaviour, and supporting vulnerable groups, including those who are lonely, disadvantaged, or living with disabilities.
Recognised Community Leadership
Marine FC continues to lead as a pioneering community club, recently receiving recognition at the Houses of Parliament for its outstanding work in girls’ football. We were also celebrated for our collaborative efforts with Liverpool, Everton, and Tranmere to address knife crime, county lines, and other societal challenges. This unique project demonstrates the power of football to unite and transform communities.
Recent Highlights
- Primary Schools Tournament: Our first National League qualifying football tournament, led by Sean O’Dochartaigh, was a huge success. Congratulations to Great Crosby Primary for winning the final and representing Marine FC in the next round! Good Luck.
- Secondary Schools Girls’ Tournament: Eight local schools participated in our Year 7/8 event, with Deyes High School taking home a well-deserved trophy.
- A special thank-you to Litherland High and Sacred Heart for officiating the tournaments. Both schools took part in our Referee Development programme last summer, were we trained 12 students as FA referees, and seeing them return to officiate matches has been a proud moment for all involved. This was part of our partnership with Merseyside Police engaging with young people and offering positive pathways and futures.
- Literacy Kicks Program: Gareth Walker, a respected sports reporter, has inspired pupils from Trinity St. Peter’s and St. Luke’s schools to improve their writing skills through football. The programme culminates in students reporting on a Marine FC match, including interviews with players and management.
Volunteer Contributions
We’re incredibly grateful to the 6th form students from Merchant Taylor’s, who have supported our Community Café over the past six weeks. Their smiles, IT assistance, and friendly service have made a huge difference. A special thank-you to Miss Nielsen for her dedication.
Weekly Activities at MITC
Here’s what’s currently on offer:
- Mini Mariners Football Coaching (ages 5–12): Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5–6 PM.
- Walking Football (Men & Women): Mondays, 7–8 PM (men) and 8–9 PM (women). A fantastic way to stay active and social!
- Community Café: Fridays, 12–2 PM. Join us for lunch, quizzes, and great company, welcoming 80–100 attendees weekly.
- Heritage Walking Group: Fortnightly walks exploring Merseyside.
- Zumba & Yoga: Fridays, 10–11:30 AM.
Looking Ahead
We’re committed to delivering programmes that many larger clubs would envy, thanks to our dedicated coaches, volunteers, and referees. The new hub will further enhance our ability to serve Crosby, Sefton, and Marine FC.
If you’d like to support our work, become a sponsor, or volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch, and together, let’s make a difference.
Contact Us
- Website: www.marineinthecommunity.com
- Email: sean@marineinthecommunity.com or graeme@marineinthecommunity.com
A huge thank-you to our sponsors and partners, including Marine FC, Radfield Homecare, Sefton CVS, Sefton Council, Crimestoppers, Merseyside Police, and all the volunteers who make our work possible.
Graeme Gardiner
Community Director
graeme@marineinthecommunity.com
