WOMEN and girls in the county are being afforded a ‘fantastic opportunity’ to gain a coaching badge – for free.

The Somerset FA has secured funding to run a Level 1 coaching course in August for girls and women over the age of 16.

Although an upfront deposit of £50 is required to cement a place, the fee will be fully refunded should participants attend all six course sessions and complete the programme satisfactorily.

Somerset FA women’s and girls’ development officer, Aaron Clements, said: “The course is for any females looking to get into coaching, or who may already be coaching but have not yet gained a qualification.

“There is no limit on who can sign up for it. We want to hear from players, coaches, teachers, mums, daughters, sisters, aunties and even grandmas – anyone in a family or club who could be interested in this fantastic opportunity.”

The course will take place on the following dates: Monday, August 4, 6pm-9.30pm (Level 1 Theory); Tuesday, August 5, 6.30pm-9.30pm (Emergency First Aid); Saturday, August 9, 9am-5pm (Level 1 Practical); Monday, August 11, 6.30pm-9.30pm (Safeguarding); Tuesday, August 12, 6pm-9.30pm (Level 1 Theory); Saturday, August 16 (9am-5pm (Level 1 Practical).

Evening sessions will be held at the Somerset FA office in Glastonbury while the two Saturday dates, August 9 and 16, take place at Strode College Sports Centre in Street.

Places are limited and are on a first come, first served basis.

Clements added: “The course will provide an introduction to the organisation and delivery of safe and enjoyable coaching sessions for young players.

“It is ideally suited to those working with groups of young players and/or teams.”

To book, or for more information, contact either Aaron Clements at aaron.clements@somersetfa.com or Kirsty Whitton at kirsty.whitton@somersetfa.com Alternatively visit the Somerset FA website at www.somersetfa.com/news and select the appropriate story in ‘Other News’, where an application form can be downloaded.