THE John Thomson Football Academy, named after the famous Celtic goalkeeper from Cardenden, got off to a flying start when 33 primary school aged youngsters enjoyed a fantastic session.

And head coach James Devine, alongside Stephen Reilly and Jason Hills who both also work with him at Kirkcaldy FC, are looking forward to expanding its remit.

The academy's weekly programme will see a maximum of 35 children get coaching at John Thomson Park in Cardenden and the coaches have more goals in mind. 

James explained: “Last Tuesday night was a tremendous success and fitting to bear the name of Cardenden’s Prince of Goalkeepers, John Thomson.

“Thomson Park is part of his legacy and we hope that that the football academy will add another strand to that.

“The enthusiasm of the youngsters has been amazing, we already have 35 young players set to take part each week and it was superb to see so many enjoying themselves.”

There will be sessions organised by the three coaches each Tuesday, and there are more football opportunities in the pipeline.

Added James: “We have plans to run several camps, for 20 children in each camp, over the summer school break and there has already been a lot of interest.

“As things develop we are also hoping to run coaching sessions for nursery age youngsters.”

In the future James and his team hope to start a football coaches’ course for unemployed people and women.

The funding streams have been through Cardenden Community Council and the Cardenden Community Forum, while the John Thomson Celtic Supporters Club has sponsored the first 10 weeks of the academy’s coaching sessions, a backing worth £260.

And James is hoping that any businesses in the Cardenden area, wishing to sponsor John Thomson Academy events, will get in touch with him on 07369 278552.