UNITEDMK FC
16 May 2008

In 1996 a small group of parents who were passionate about bringing the game of football to their children and others in the local area, decided that, by creating a new Club an ethos and framework could be put in place that would be fresh, new and exciting. This Club would ultimately focus on delivering the sport to absolutely every child who wished to play junior and youth football in the area. These parents recognised that some Clubs in the area were becoming more focussed on winning and being the best rather than creating chances for youngsters to play football. We all know that it can be really hard for any sportsman to be given the chance to shine, in particular when you may only get 5 minutes to make the right impression, with kids it’s a confidence thing as well. A “come and play” attitude was adopted to ensure every child was given a fair chance. It was realised that teams are built on foundations and confidence and it should always remain the duty of the Coach and Manager to help the team and individual players to aspire to their own standard of play and manage both the player’s and parent’s personal expectations.

The Club was named Downs Barn after its main playing grounds. We all know that setting something up and achieving targets is difficult, but becomes even harder when faced with recruiting volunteers to put ideas into place. Over the next few seasons, much was achieved and the Club continued to grow through the dedicated founder members. We all know that success is built on adaptability, so you must never stop evolving therefore in a constantly changing environment new ideas are key.

In 2006 we continued this process by achieving the nationally recognised F.A Charter Standard Mark. Great strides have been taken since with Coaches and Managers achieving F.A level one and two training badges, a new girls team, a Mini’s group for the under age kids looking to take their first steps into football. We now are looking at F.A Charter Development Standard of which very few Clubs in the area can aspire to have the structure in place to attain this. A corporate image and badge is important to any company or Club to help identify partners and sponsors. This helped us forge links with the Great Linford Waterside Festival, MK Sports Council, Stantonbury Parish Council and the MK Community Foundation. Partners include Lighterlife and Teekay Couplings. We also support Bliss: The Premature baby charity and the Hope for Hollie campaign.