LIONS AND FOLLY LANE ANNOUNCE EXCITING UNDER 18s JOINT VENTURE

21 December 2021

Swinton Lions and Folly Lane ARLFC are delighted to reveal a new and exciting development in their blossoming partnership, with the launch of a new Under 18s team, playing under the title Folly Lane Lions, for the forthcoming 2022 season.

Swinton Lions will the support the new team in a variety of ways, including the purchase of kit and helping to cover other key costs, as well as helping to develop training programmes and coaching sessions under the guidance of Dougie Owen, the Lions’ Head of Youth Development.

Swinton’s Director of Development Damian Ridpath said, “This is the next step in our relationship with Folly Lane, through which we will not only support the development of players but Folly’s coaches as well. It was only natural to engage Folly Lane with this programme, who are of course the traditional community club in our historical home town of Swinton. Since its inception in 1946, Folly has developed more players who have gone on to play professionally with Swinton than any other community club, including of course current Lions Will Hope and Jack Spencer. This joint venture will strengthen the strong ties between our clubs, as well as enhance the development of Rugby League in the town of Swinton & Pendlebury and its surrounding area.”

On behalf of Folly Lane, Gary Woodward added, “Folly Lane sees great benefits in this partnership for both clubs in respect of players coming through our youth system. It will also be a good grounding for young players to continue their development to play community rugby league with Folly Lane at open age and with the chance to play future amateur representative rugby league. We can’t wait to get started.”

Swinton Lions’ Head of Youth Development, Dougie Owen, was equally as enthusiastic. He said, “It’s fantastic to be able to work with the Folly Lane coaches and their players. Not just to help develop the local talent, but to make sure everyone involved gets the opportunity to become the best they can be.”

The first session will take place at 12noon, Saturday 8th January, at Folly Lane ARLFC, Blue Ribbon Fields, Fraser Street, Pendlebury M27 4DH.

Existing Folly Lane players, or players that are currently not attached to other community clubs, and who wish to attend, should please complete the attached Expression of Interest Form.

https://forms.gle/FbTqsoXtEvTWQABW6