
UNDER 9'S TAKE THE CUP
On a beautiful Sunday morning at Holmer Green Sports Club, A.F.C Lightning under 9's came out on top to the talented Marlow Youth side to the South Bucks County Cup.
Having came out on top to Marlow Royals in the semi final, the boys from A.F.C Lightning knew they would be up against a stronger side, with over 100 hundred supporters on the side line the games were about to kick off.
The first 2 matches saw contrasting results, in a very close game that produced fantastic football and great goals,
Marlow narrowly came out on top but both sides hit the bar and the 2 keepers were kept busy throughout the match. A.F.C Lightning's goals came from an unlucky own goal and a great header from Thomas S from a Robert B corner.
On the other pitch A.F.C Lightning put in a great performance with goals coming from Thomas H,Callum H and James J.
During the break between matches the boys took on plenty of fluids as the coaches talked them through tactical changes and kept them focussed on the final games ahead, at this stage the final could of gone either way.
On pitch 1 A.F.C Lightning took an early lead with a great goal from Thomas S,however Marlow were playing great football and the Lightning boys were really digging deep to defend their lead. A.F.C Lightning kept on top for most of the first half, Across on pitch 2 the action was equally as tense with neither team able to get on top
As the second halves kick off both teams were feeling the pace as the heat rose, the crowd could sense it could go either way,but with a few minutes remaining 2 great goals came Fin M and a third of the day for Thomas S which made the under 9's on top of the day.
At the final whistle both teams shook hands and showed that a hosly contested match could be played with great passion and spirit by 2 good footballing sides who are a credit to their clubs.
Sean the manger is delighted for the club but most importantly the players because they played with all their hearts and souls.
Lightning Park Opens !!!
20th November 2007 - This weekend saw AFC Lightning open its new home ground for the seniors Lightning Park at Cryers Hill next to the great family friendly Pub The White Lion who kindly have provided the field. It has been a massive undertaking in a very short time-scale with a special thanks to Gaynor and Gavyn who have with others spent the last few weeks running around turning a bramble filled field into a potential Wembley. The specialised help from Manor Estates has been awesome.
With a full size pitch, dugouts, training area and great plans for the future the club has a good home for the seniors in Cryers Hill to compliment the fantastic facilities at the Misbourne School in Great Missenden.
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U11s in Wycombe Wanderers Shoot Out!
16th November 2007 - The under 11's had a great day at Wycombe Wanderers taking penalties at half time, It was a bag of mixed emotions some players a bit scared and other players full of confidence everybody done really and i was really proud of all of them Bodger the mascot scored 2 goals which got all the kids 2 free tickets for any home game. |
U14's Win Plate at Aylesbury Tournament !
Congratulations to AFC's U14's - who after a long and arduous day, managed to get a team to the final of the plate final at Aylesbury and win it ! The 1-0 victory was no more than the 6 man squad deserved, putting in a series of gritty and determined displays on the way to their first ever trophy. The team played without a regular goalkeeper and consisted of Chris T., Chris D, Sinclair, James, George & Richard.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the stadium, AFC's U9 also reached the final of the Plate - but eventually lost on penalties. The team put in a spirited performance and got better as the tournament developed. The team was Sam, Alexander P, Ashton, George, Henry & Mark P.
Under 8s win U9s Chiltern Tournament
11th June 2007 - This weekend in a remarkable display AFC U8s pulled off a memorable victory winning the final of the U9s at the Chiltern Tournament. Due to a lack of numbers meaning the Under 8s category was no longer going ahead the decision was made to take up an offer for the U8s to play in the Under 9s for the experience.
The team were totally awesome, they were a class act. The passing was superb, and every time they had possession, they looked threatening. Whenever they lost the ball (which didnt happen often) they fought to get it back. Those present lost count of the number of people who commented that they couldnt believe they were an Under 8s team.
In the final, they were dominant and should have scored at least a couple of goals but it went to penalties. The penalties were a totally nerve wracking experience. By the end, the parents legs were like jelly when we won. It was an amazing day.
A huge well done for a remarkable achievement !!
Under 9s Make Final
28th May 2007 - After battling the torrential rain and winds of Bank Holiday Monday at Flackwell Heath Tournament the Under 9's managed by Greg showed an outstanding performance and much determination to bring home some silver! With significant goals being scored and fantastic team work throughout they made the semi final and won convincingly!!! to go ahead into the final, which was very tight with little give either way again a superb team effort and atmosphere we went to extra time in the last minute a goal divided the two and with no time to come back we brought home runner up trophies. It was a fantastic day enjoyed by players, coach and extremely wet parents!!!!!!!!!
Player Presentation Success!
21st May 2007 - A carnival atmosphere and plenty of sunshine gave a splendid backdrop to the second AFC annual player presentations on Saturday. All the teams were well represented (except for the Under 8s who were playing at Wycombe Wanderers click here for a special report) with a small trophy awarded to all players. Special awards went to older players. Congratulations to all the pl
ayers for their hard work throughout the season.
U10 Girls Win County Cup !!!
1st May 2007 - Congratulations to AFC's U10 Girls who on Saturday won the first played-for trophy for the club this season. Teams from around the county competed at Fairford Leys in Aylesbury and after some great battling and heart-stopping moments, both AFC teams reached the final of the competition, with a 1-0 score-line giving one of the teams the winners medals.
The girls in white did the club proud and manger Tony Killinger was over the moon with their performance - celebrating in style through the rest of the day. The trophy was paraded at the Annual Dinner Dance that evening giving a real boost to the occasion. The girls now go on to compete in other competitions with more silverware hopefully coming their way.
AFC Lightning AGM 2007!!
19th April 2007 - The AFC Lightning 2007 AGM will take place on Wednesday May 2nd 2007 starting 2030 hours. The venue is the Rossetti Hall in Holmer Green. All parents of playing members current year, may attend and are invited and welcome to be nominated for officer posts
U10 Girls need Manager next season
15th April 2007 - With the next season just around the corner we are looking for a new U10 Girls Manager. Can you help the club by taking up the challenge? As a manager and coach you will be fully supported by the club including F.A. coaching qualifications. The need for a new team is due to the older girls in the current U10s moving into the U12s age group next season creating the need for a new team for the new season.
The rewards are amazing in terms of the satisfaction of forming and developing both individual and team skills. If you are interested then please e-mail tony@AFC Lightning.com .
Congratulations Khalid!!
15th April 2007 - We are delighted to announce that Kahlid from the U8s has been chosen to play for Wycombe Wanderers next season following trails involving many players for a few places. Claire Parsons the Under 8s Manager said We are all pleased that Khalid has been successful and wish him well next season. As a club we believe in the importance of creating such opportunities for our players. I look forward to hearing how he gets on and hope he enjoys it. Well done!

Huge Thanks to John Lewis
3rd April 2007 - John Lewis has once again shown AFC Lightning huge support with another substantial donation to the club this will allow us to further develop the club and the facilities we can provide.
So from all of us at AFC Lightning a huge thank you !!!!!
Parents Friendly 6 a side / Picnic / Player Presentations
3rd April 2007 - Our annual friendly parent's six a side and player presentation giving will take place on Saturday 19th May 2007. The 6 a side and picnic from 1015 to 12.30. The presentation 12.30 to 13.30. The Football: All teams to have 6/7 players on pitch - 1 must be female at all times. Squad sizes as you want. STRICTLY NO BOOTS. Playing format and rules TBA. Please let your manager know if you are interested. Feel free to arrive and picnic the morning away - ahead of the presentations.
New Name for New Season
3rd April 2007 - We can now confirm that as of next season we will be known as AFC Lightning (Misbourne) the decision has had to be made after several concerns regarding AFC White Lightning were bought to the attention of the committee. The new name will also mean smart new high quality kits for the new season (still predominately white). With the existing kit being collected and hopefully shipped to our twin club in Africa the Mofolo Knights. Watch out for announcements as the new season approaches.
Helen & Douglas House U14's Sponsored Walk
28 February 2007 - Following our hike around the Chilterns just before Christmas I am pleased to say we raised a fantastic £1144.00 - well done to all the boys who walked and to those who sponsored the boys, I am sure if you have been watching the programme on BBC2 regarding Helen & Douglas House that the money is going to a very good and deserving cause, once again many thanks to all concerned, regards Denis
Thank you Masterfoods !
19th February 2007 - Masterfoods Charitable Donations have once again come up with the goods for AFC Lightning, by kindly donating £200 towards a new and much needed barbecue grill for the catering crew. Thank you !
Name Change Result to be announced Thursday.
19 February 2007 - The player only ballot results for choosing the new name for the Club for season 2007/8 will be announced this Thursday (22nd) on the website. Due to the half-term holidays, the voting deadline has been extended to 6pm. on Tuesday, so if players haven't voted, please do so now via your manager
Manager / Coach needed for U6's for next season
7 February 2007 - We need someone willing to take on the new Under 6's for next season for the current Reception Year children. We would love to hear if anyone is interested, the club will provide support, help fund training (FA Level 1) and equipment. It truly is rewarding and just requires enthusiasm, so if your keen please let me know and you can help create something special. Call David on 01494-713145 or e-mail david@AFC Lightning.com
Name Change Going to Vote !
30 January 2006 - After lots of deliberation, the name change of the club from AFC Holmer Green to another name in time for next season will shortly be decided upon by ALL paid up members of the Club. 6 short-listed names will be put to each and every paid-up player member. Further details and the ballot paper containing six short-listed names will follow in due course from each manager.
Under 6s at Castle Mania
12 January 2007 - The under 6s had a great time at their post Christmas party at Castle Mania with more than 20 player it was great fun with plenty of running around getting to know each other off the field.
Five a side - for adults!!!
10 January 2007 - The 5 a side run about is growing quickly but more payers are needed. The first session is Friday 26 January 20:00-21:00 at Handy Cross. Remember this is a bit of fun and a but of a workout for adults at the same time. Sean McAndrew is now coordinating this so please contact him at sean@AFC Lightning.com if you are interested.
Five a side - for adults!!!
3rd January 2007 - Make a New Years resolution to start 5-a-side football. Stuart Foster who helps with the U15s is looking for recruits for a new team, ready to work off those Christmas puddings and other festive treats.
As he eloquently puts it I made a New years resolution to get back playing 5/6-a-side football again. The problem I have is finding a side or group that plays regularly - the group that I played with for over 10 years disbanded last year and the couple of feelers I've put out have come to naught. The group I used to play with had a "squad" of about 18 and we just used to turn up on-spec on a Thursday evening - sometimes it was 4-a-side, other times it was 8-a-side, all friendly but competitive - I'm looking for something similar.
Any budding players should contact Stuart by e-mail at info@AFC Lightning.com .
Under 14s Charity Walk
17 December 2006 - On the morning of Saturday the 16th of December instead of a training session down at the Misborne, Denis our U14 manager took a squad of 20 fit and excited players off to Hambleden for a 12 mile walk in aid of Helen Douglas Hospice for children.. This started at the Stag and Huntsman pub at 9.30, where I have to say a beautiful sunny morning with glorious blue skies awaited us, and off we all went up hill down hill up another hill then across fields through woods up to our knees in mud but on we all marched. After 6 miles the boys were in great spirits even discussing tactics for tomorrows big match against Loudwater. Encouraging all the way round were a handful of parents just as eager to finish this big challenge as the boys. We were back at the Stag and Huntsman pub in an unbelievable time of 2 hours 50 minutes, where a much needed hot buffet awaited us.
So as chairman of the club I would like to personally thank Denis for inviting me along and giving me a few aches and pains for my troubles. But more importantly our players for raising money for boys and girls less fortunate than themselves
A big well done to you all
Sean McAndrew
Chairman AFC Lightning
Fair Play Award Formally Presented
9 December -The U8s who last year as the U7s won the Fair Play Award coming first out of 28 clubs in the age group went to Adams Park on Saturday to be formally presented with the prestigious Fair Play shield.
The award was presented by some Wycombe Wanderers first team players. With a huge contingent of 64 players, parents, and grandparents the AFC contingent were out in force, possibly outnumbering the Barnet away supporters!
Claire the manager is extremely proud and is still grinning like a cheshire cat several hours later. As a team to win such an award is important for the club as it reflects the commitment of all involved especially the players and coaches. Each manager after every game awards points for fair play of the opposition team, those points are added over the season to produce a winner. I am delighted that the team won this award for all their hard work and dedication over last season.
Tesco Sport Vouchers Success
13 November 2006 - Thanks to parents and friends, the total Tesco vouchers is still being counted but runs into the thousands - we still have some more to collect and count. So please pass them on to your manager. The AFC Lightning Committee will look to select number of training items - though it may take a few months for them to arrive. A big thank you to all !
Wycombe Win! - Thanks to Sam
7 November 2006 - Sam from AFC Lightning U12s was Wycombe Wanderers mascot this weekend where he got the chance to meet the players including his hero Tommy Mooney, and ran on with No. 7 Kevin Betsy who scored the first of two goals of a well deserved victory against Peterborough United. He had a marvelous day and enjoyed the experience immensely.
Does this prove yet again that a mascot from the club makes the difference ??
West Ham Win! - Thanks to Jack
31 October 2006 - Jack from AFC Lightning U9s had the day of his life on Sunday when he turned out to be the lucky mascot as West Ham beat Blackburn 2-1. His day included a visit to the home dressing room to meet the players, a warm up on the pitch before kick-off and the honour of leading out the side live on Sky. He also managed to get the Sky cameraman to let him pick up the Barclays Player of the Match champagne ( as seen in the picture) . Jack said the best bit was warming up on the pitch where he played a passing game with Nigel Reo-Coker and Anton Ferdinand in front of 34,000 people. Hopefully some of you may have seen Jack live on Sky just before the game in the players tunnel and then leading out the team. If you did Jack can recommend it as a once in a life time experience. Come this weekend Jack will be coming down to earth and hoping to help the U9s in their match on the less hallowed but still well maintained turf of the Misbourne !!
Under 14s Charity Walk
30 October 2006 - The under 14's are going to do a 12 mile charity walk on the 16th December in aid of the Helen & Douglas Hospice for children start and finishing at Hambleden, the boys are going to collect money via sponsorship forms.
'Helen & Douglas House provides respite and end of life care for children and young adults with life-shortening conditions, as well as support and friendship for the whole family. The two houses are bright, vibrant and positive places, focused on bringing some depth and enjoyment to life even though that life may be short. Helen House was the worlds first childrens hospice, built in 1982; Douglas House is the worlds first 'respice' for young adults, which opened in 2004. Together they add life to years through rest and recuperation, treatment of distressing symptoms, end of life care, family support and education'.
JACK HOPING TO BE WEST HAMS LUCKY MASCOT
22nd October 2006 - This Sunday Jack from AFC Lightnings U9s is going to be the West Ham mascot at the Premiership game between West Ham and Blackburn Rovers live on Sky at 4.00pm. Jack is hoping to bring some luck to his favourite team as recently their form has been decidedly average !! Jacks day will include meeting the players in the dressing room, warming up on the pitch and then leading the team out. If you want to catch Jack on the telly please tune in just before kick off when he will be the cheeky one standing in front of Nigel Reo-Coker, West Hams Captain.
A full report will follow together with pictures of Jacks special day and hopefully news of a positive result for the Hammers.
Name Change for AFC Lightning
15th October 2006 -Within a year or so from now, AFC Holmer Green (AFC Lightning) will be changing its name. The Committee unanimously decided some months ago, that our ever changing circumstances meant that our reasons for calling ourselves Holmer Green were not applicable and reflected adversely upon us in terms of being a team centred around a single village rather than what we are a burgeoning inclusive regional FA Charter Standard junior football club, with fantastic sponsors, great facilities and close links to professional clubs.
Whilst we have dozens of players that live and/or go to school in Holmer Green, we have dozens that dont. We are also centred in and around Great Missenden, with a large catchment area stretching for miles around.
Our initial roots may have been within Holmer Green and the name suited the clubs purposes at the time. However, times change and as the fastest growing junior football club in South Bucks, its time to evolve.
There will be more on the name change in due course, though early thoughts are the Athletic Football Club (AFC) part will remain intact.
U16s Players in Reading FC Trials
10th October 2006 - Congratulations to Simon D. & Gary C. from AFC Lightning's U16's - who have been accepted for trials at Premiership club Reading FC during the up and coming half term. Central defender Simon had previously broken into the Crystal Palace FC Youth Academy but by mutual agreement it was decided that the traveling was too far and too time consuming to make it permanent.
Now both Simon and midfielder Gary have an opportunity to impress at Reading - the kind of opportunity that will be offered to any AFC Lightning player that coaches and club representatives feel is appropriate.
U16's Injury Crisis- Match Postponed
10th October 2006 - A raft of injuries sustained over the past few weeks has meant the much looked forward to U16s away match at HGMFC this coming weekend has had to be postponed. Similar events occurred this time last year when at U15s level, the squad was decimated by injuries and illness, but managed to fulfil all their fixtures. This time around the crisis has bitten deeper and with a smaller squad due to recent releases, available players at this stage are well below the required level to play. Manager Roger Jones says, Nobody wanted this, but bad luck and circumstances has meant we have had little option but to concede the situation and postpone. We must give as much notice as we possibly can to our opposition and the League, so a timely rather than late postponement is our only option.
Saturday Drinks on the Menu !
08th October 2006 - Thanks to Kate K. and Pat W. (parents from the Girls U10 squad), AFC Lightning parents and children may now help themselves to hot and cold drinks and biscuits at the Misbourne on most Saturday mornings at training. Please feel free to take advantage of the hospitality all proceeds go to AFC Lightning players.
U7s Impress at Chelsea Training
05 October 2006 - The U7s went to Chelsea training camp this week where all our players had a fantastic evening and certainly looked the part they enjoyed an hours worth of quality training and were shown new skills to bring into their game all the players brought with them some superb support from excited mums and dads they finished off with a game playing against a team from Hayes and did themselves proud with great all round play. And to top it all one of our players has been invited to sessions on a Thursday night with two of his fellow team mates to the Chelsea academy. Well done to you all - Sean U7s Manager
Tesco Sport Vouchers Wanted for AFC Lightning
11 September 2005 - Tesco has launched a scheme today called Sports for School and Clubs were vouchers are issued when you shop and can be handed in to your coach at AFC Holmer Green. The club can then use the vouchers for sports equipment.
Last year we collected thousands of vouchers and got some stunning equipment for the club (see picture). So please help us.
Please can you support your club and collect as many vouchers as you can.
There is also a competition that you can enter by clicking this link http://www.tesco.com/sport/competitions/index.html to win 10,000 vouchers for your club
AFC Lightning awarded lottery grant !!!
06 September 2006 - AFC Lightning are pleased to announce the awarding of a £2000 national lottery grant to the Club. The money will be used to buy a much needed large walk in storage container at the Misbourne. Chairman Sean McAndrew stated "The awarding of this grant is another sign that AFC Lightning if very firmly established as the leading pacesetter in junior football within the local district. We are very pleased to know that the authorities view us as being a force for good and are prepared to show that by the awarding of this grant, for which we are very grateful".
U16's Gain First Division Status !
23 August 2006 - Following a successful inaugural season last season with a 4th place finish in division 2, Wycombe & South Bucks League Committee have decided to promote AFC Lightning U16's to Division 1.
The news comes as no surprise for Roger Jones's talented squad - which contains at least two players who have the attention of professional clubs and a whole host of players who have shown commitment and dedication to make the squad formidable opponents worthy of their division 1 status. Well done to the boys !!
AFC Lightning Players Make Summer Splash!
23 August 2006 - AFC Lightning players have continued to make a splash in the circles of professional club football this summer.

Simon from last season's U15's played his first competitive game for Crystal Palace Academy at Uxbridge recently, afer impressing at trials. Meanwhile, Zoe (U10), Katie (U9) and Danii (U10) were all selected by M K Dons after two spells of trials. However, all three have elected to stay with AFC Lightning for season 2006/7. Well done to all concerned.
Chiltern Show Success
17 July 2006 - On Sunday AFC Lightning coaches were hard at work promoting the club at the Chiltern Show as well as running a very successful target goal stand. The day was very hot and very worthwhile with plenty of interest and raising the profile of the club in the Great Missenden area. A number of potential new players have already indicated their interest following the show.
Final Hurrah for Girls U9's & U8's at Bucks CC
16th July 2006 -The 2005/6 playing season finally closed for AFC Lightning as the under 9 girls and under 8s made their final bow at the Bucks CC tournament in Stoke Mandeville on Saturday.
Led by coaches Tony Killinger, Greg Gibbs and Sharon Keens with FA Level 2 coach Jim Dale giving a helping hand wherever it was needed, the teams performed well on yet another hot and sunny day.
For full report click here
U6s trial for Chelsea FC
16 July 2006 Congratulations to Finn and Thomas from AFC Lightnings U6s who attended a trial for Chelsea F.C. on Thursday night at Brunell University in Uxbridge where both Finn and Thomas fitted in very well amongst a selected few of very talented young footballers. Both boys thoroughly enjoyed their once in a life time experience (and we expect their proud parents did as well. Chelsea scout Brian Mustill said afterwards that he looked forward to seeing Finn and Thomas in September.
Girls Trial at Arsenal & MK Dons

On Wednesday 12th July, Zoe and Danii from AFC Lightnings U9s Girls and Katie from the U8s, travelled to the National Hockey Stadium in Milton Keynes to take part in the U10s girls trials. This followed a weekend trip to Arsenal by Georgia of the U8s, who had previously impressed the Gunners at earlier trials. The girls may yet be invited back, but all agreed that the experience and occasion was both enjoyable and useful. AFC Lightning will continue to recommend and support players trialing for professional clubs, as and when it is appropriate.
Committed U8's Impress at QPR
4th July 2006 - An 8 strong squad of U8 players visited QPRs training ground near Heathrow Airport to play a series of 8 a-side matches against a 20+ QPR U8 Academy Squad on Thursday (20th June), following an invite from Academy Director Roger Blackmore.
The first match was a shock to the system for the AFC Lightning players, with the QPR boys taking advantage of their skills and home ground experience to run in 4 goals without reply.
The second match saw the AFC Lightning outfit perform much better, with plenty of endeavour and the realisation that this was far from a walk in the park. Chances were limited and a 0-1 reverse was a credit to AFC Lightning in terms of finding their feet after the initial reverse.
The third match saw the QPR squad change their personnel once again, but the same AFC Lightning 8 gave their all for a further 15 minutes and were rewarded with a well worked goal from the team, finished off by Toby. A final score-line of 1-2 emphasised the work-rate and discipline of the team, which was of great credit to them. Managed by Jim Dale & Sharon Keens, both agreed that this was a very worthwhile experience and that future such outings would be beneficial.
Squad: Mark, Adam, Jake, Tom, Katie, Toby, Opone, Henry. Travelled but did not play (injury) Georgia.
Hot Stuff at Amersham & Aston Clinton Tournaments 
3 July 2006 - The sun shone and temperatures soared across the weekend tournaments at Amersham and Aston Clinton.
First up were the U9 girls and U8 boys, playing as a single team in the Amersham U9 tournament. The squad of 8 equipped themselves very well against the stronger and more experienced squads from South Bucks and Hertfordshire and although a goal and a win eluded them, some close 1-0 defeats showed how far the players have travelled.
Next up were the U8s at Aston Clinton on Sunday morning and again in hot and sticky conditions. The squads (1 playing for the most part with only 5 players), did remarkably well and in 12 matches and some 96 minutes of football, won 5 drew 6 and lost just the once by a 0-1 margin, with 10 goals for and only 4 against.
The U7s followed and had a good run of positive results at Aston Clinton.
Finally, back to Amersham and the U13s put on a great display of passing football and intelligent play to reach the semi-final of the competition, before losing out 0-1. Their display was full of confidence and was arguably the high point of the season in the searing heat of over 30 degrees.
New Players Wanted for 2006 /2007
29 June 2006 - New Players are needed to join us for next season. Selected squads need both Girls and Boys to join this fast growing family friendly club. Moving from strength to strength as a FA Standard Charter Club with qualified coaching staff we pride ourselves in ensuring our child friendly ethos is maintained at all levels.
* Responsibility for this squad is split amongst AFC Lightning coaches with Sharon coordinating player enquiries.
Fantastic, Fabulous Festival of Football !!!
26 June 2006 - AFC Lightnings first ever Festival of Football was by all accounts a rip roaring success. Hundreds of players, parents and friends from far and wide turned out on two fine weather days to enjoy a carnival atmosphere and some great football.
Over 75 boys & girls teams aged Under 6 Development through to Under 15s, competed over two days, with the magnificent backdrop of the Chiltern Hills and the open spaces of the Misbourne allowing for an extremely picturesque setting.
Some precious pre-tournament rain livened up the pitches and with mid-afternoon temperatures rising into the mid-70s, cold drinks, ice creams and the like were in great demand. The Sunday saw the arrival of an African drumming group and with the England v Ecuador match being shown live next to the very busy Footie Bar, the scene was as close to perfect as one could imagine.
Professional representatives from Chelsea, Reading & QPR were present at the Festival and several players (including some from AFC Lightning) were earmarked for further attention.
All in all a splendid weekend which drew dozens of plaudits - and one that without doubt puts AFC Lightnings Festival of Football right at the top of regional football tournaments.
Festival of Football Thanks !
26 June 2006 - AFC Lightning's Management Committee would like to extend our special thanks and gratitude to the many parents, players & family members, who gave their time and efforts to ensure the Festival of Football ran as smoothly and as well as it did. Your efforts are well recognised and greatly appreciated. Thank you !
The Committee would also like to thank visiting referees and club representatives for providing the professional polish, as well as the visiting stall holders for ensuring everyone had something to occupy themselves with.
Finally, we would like to also extend our thanks to the many sponsors and advertisers of the Festival, whose support enabled the event to look and feel as special as it did.
AFC Lightning Player to Sign for Wycombe Wanderers!
17 June 2006 - Wycombe Wanderers have confirmed; that following recent trials, David the AFC Lightning under 13s Captain, will be signing a two year contract for the start of next season.
This is an excellent opportunity for David, and confirms that AFC Lightnings policy of promoting talented youngsters to Professional clubs really works. David will be sorely missed next year by the Under 13s but the Clubs policy of putting the youngsters interests above that of the teams will mean that David has the opportunity to further his ambitions of being a professional footballer.
David said I am really excited to be joining Wycombe, and although the trials and training have been hard, I am learning a lot and really enjoying it. So far we have Played; Northampton, Crystal Palace and QPR, and won all 3 games. I know I have a long way to go before I can become a professional footballer but this is a first step and I aim to work really hard to try and make it happen.
So well done David, who knows maybe in a few years time we might see the First AFC Lightning youngster appearing on the telly playing for Wycombe, or another professional Club.
Super Weather Outlook for AFC Lightning's Festival of Football !!!
16 June 2006 - The all important weather looks like playing ball for AFC Lightnings Festival of Football on the weekend 24th-25th June 2006. According to AFC Lightning Secretary Jim Dale, who is a professional meteorologist for British Weather Services, a nose of high pressure looks like settling across the UK for the weekend, giving dry and mainly sunny weather with light breezes. Im about 80% confident of fine weather, says Jim. Its hard to say precisely how warm it will be, but my best estimate at the moment is to expect temperatures in the low 70s which is ideal for football and spectating.
AFC Lightning Under 11's for 2006/2007 secure 2nd Division status
13 June 2006 - After a very hard fought season the current Under 10's AFC Lightning squad are rewarded with 2nd division status for 2006 / 2007 season. "Our focus all season has been this, I am very proud of all my players, they have worked hard in training and have dug down deep in many occasions to record some hard fought victories. I also have to thank all the parents, they have been the difference in many matches providing the vocal support and presence on the touch line. I am now looking forward to the start of the new season." A very proud Under 10's manager, Marco
Sunny side up for AFC Lightning Player Presentations
12 June 2006 - A carnival atmosphere and copious amounts of sunshine gave a splendid backdrop to the ADFCHG annual player presentations on Saturday. The U6s, U7s, U8s U10s girls, U13s, U14s girls and the U15s were well represented, with a small trophy awarded to all players. Congratulations to Chris D., David T. and William of the U13s for winning the managers, players player and most improved player for the U13s; and congratulations also to Gary, Patrick and Duncan for winning the same awards for the U15s. To top it all, the U7s were presented with the SBMSC Fair Play award by club chairman Sean McAndrew.
Many thanks to Lloyd from Heath Press, High Wycombe for his kind and generous support in sponsoring the purchase of the trophies and medals.
For full photo report click here
Parent's Football Competition Hot Hot Hot !!!
12 June 2006 - Well done to all who took part or supported the 1st AFC Lightning Parents 6 a side competition. The hot conditions made it hard going for the 40 or so players but some good football was had and in particular from the several female players who took part. The Under 6s came out top of the shop, with the Under 7s and Under 8s not far behind.
For full photo report click here
SATURDAY 10TH JUNE - AFC Lightning EVENTS
5 June 2006 - With hot and sunny weather promised, this Saturday brings a trio of AFC Lightning events to the Misbourne. Bring a picnic make a day of it. Cold beer, drinks and snacks available.
*** AFC Lightning Parents Fun 6 a side Tournament ***: 1000-1215 (ish). Parents - fancy a run out for your section ? Contact your coach/manager today. Simple rules, fun orientated all squads must have 1 x female parent on the pitch at all times. Trainers only no boots. Teams to wear a colour.
***AFC Lightning Player Presentations***: 1245-1345: The long awaited presentations. All registered players and their families are invited. AFC Lightning kits/tops not required.
***England v Paraguay AFC Lightning Big Screen Event***: 1400-1600. Englands World Cup campaign kicks off and well have it on big screen free to all AFC Lightning members (players & parents).
Spot the Ball winners announced!
29th May 2006- Thanks to those that took part in our Spot the Ball competition and we are please to announce that although nobody hit the square N15, 3 people were judged to be the closest and they are as follows:
Norman King U13s
Amanda Lavene U13s
Anisha Donaldson U7s
All sharing £100 prize money thats £33 pounds each, a good contribution to our club was made. Thanks for your support to all that took part.
AFC Lightning 5 New Squads for 2006/7 !
21 May 2006 - AFC Lightning are very happy to report that we will have at least five new squads for season 2006/7 namely the Under 6s, Under 8s girls development squad, the Under 10s, the Under 12s and the U15s age groups. Players wishing to join these squads should contact:
2006/2007 Membership Fees Announced
19 May 2006 - New season rates have been set (click here for details) and represents some of the best value football in the area especially when you look at our family discount scheme.
So come on and sign up for the next season!
Player Presentation Day Deferred to Sat 10th June
Due to impending wet weather on Sunday 21st May, the AFC Lightning Player Presentation Day has been deferred to Saturday 10th June. The event will take place in the p.m. at a time to be arranged and in tandem with the AFC Lightning Parents 6 a side and the big screen England v Paraguay match. Further details will be posted here shortly.
AGM Put Back 1 Day
In order to comply with several requests, the AGM has been moved back one day from Wednesday 17th to Thursday 18th May. The British Legion, Holmer Green - 2030 hours.
Player Presentations this Sunday
15 May 2006 - The AFC Lightning Player Presentations will take place on Sunday 21st May at the Misbourne, from 1400 to 1600 hours. All registered players, family and friends are invited to attend this club-wide event. The U6s to U15s players will all receive medals, with awards in the U10, U13 and U15s teams for players player, most improved player and managers player in each case.
Feel free to bring along a drink and a picnic though by the look of the weather forecast you may also need a brolly !!
Drivers, please use the car parks and one side of the road only to park. Players may wear casual clothes, no kits are required to be worn though AFC Lightning training tops will as ever look the business.
Weekend Results...Weekend Results...
15 may 2006 - The weekend began and ended with the U15's, who traveled at first to Harefield and then to the prestigious Rushden & Diamonds tournament in Northamptonshire With U7s U8s U9s (Girls) and U13s
See our full report....click here
Masterfoods pulls masterstroke!
9 May 2006 - AFC Lightning received a £200 donation from Master Foods - in respect of our work in the community. Thanks to all the team at Masterfood for their support.