Relief for sidelined footballers
David Knox • Published 13 Sep 2012 09:30
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CROCKED footballers in Galashiels have been given a helping hand following a charity day last month.
All of the town's adult and children's clubs came together for a family day at Netherdale.
Almost £900 was raised to kick off an injured players fund - and on Saturday the first cheques were handed over.
Andy Stavert, who suffered a double leg break last season when playing for Gala Fairydean Under 19s against Spartans, was given £200.
The 19-year-old spent over a month in hospital and had to cancel his plans to go to university in the summer as well Camp America.
Andy told us: "It's been a really frustrating year. I've been playing football since I was four years old at Clovenfords, so I'm missing it."
Stavert isn't expected to play again until next season - and is getting by financially by coaching tennis and hockey.
Shaun Hardie, who suffered horrific injuries while playing for Gala Rovers earlier this season, was also given a cheque for £200 from the fund.
And Des Sutherland who fell from a ladder last month was given £100.
Derek McGill was amongst the organisers of the family day. He said: "We want to build up an injured players fund which can be used when needed. These boys aren't usually insured and every penny helps them when they have to stay at home with injuries and can't work.
"It was great to see all of the clubs come together for the family day, and I hope it can become an annual occasion."
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