Accies help pupils show very healthy interest in fitness

Jun 11 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

HAMILTON Accies star Mark McLaughlin and under-19 player Declan McAvoy last week helped the club kick off their School Health Days initiative by dropping in to St Gerard’s Primary in Bellshill.

Backed by SPL sponsor Clydesdale Bank, the initiative will see Accies’ community coaches visit a total of 36 schools throughout Lanarkshire.

They will provide basic football coaching sessions and promoting healthy lifestyles among pupils.

With the help of the club’s sports scientist Ross Hughes, coaches will also give special talks to pupils, highlighting the importance of physical activity.

Hamilton Accies Academy manager George Cairns said this week: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Clydesdale Bank to educate local youngsters about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

“The pupils really seem to enjoy the sessions and some of our under-19 players even benefit by coming along and helping out, and working towards nationally-recognised coaching qualifications.

“We are all working hard to engage with the local community and the support of this initiative from Clydesdale Bank will allow us to reach over 750 children across Lanarkshire.”

Irene Swankie, Clydesdale Bank community affairs manager, commented: “We endeavour to play a positive role in the development of strong communities and, as SPL sponsor, what better way than to help Hamilton continue their excellent work in the local community by supporting their School Health Days initiative?”