Senior Blues visit to KGV Sports Hub

A party of Senior Blues members made a return visit to the Hub to hear about progress made since opening.

Jim Green told us about the important part the Hub is playing in the community aside from its function as a training facility for the first team squad. The pitches are fully utilised during the week by groups and local football leagues, whilst the Hub itself serves the local community for example via a toddler playgroup, Pilates sessions, senior citizens group activities, (football themed) birthday parties and a new youth club venture. There is a team of community workers and sports coaches employed by the Trust who fulfil a wide range of functions within the Hub, at local schools, and in the community.

Jim also talked about the refurbishment of the Pavilion which is now used as a base and teaching centre for the Scholars. Unfortunately the recent heavy rain has presented drainage problems with the remodelled adjacent grass pitch and surrounds, and the situation is due to be rectified when weather permits.

It should be noted that the KGV, being part of the Community Trust does not provide a major income stream for the football club per se, but is a very valuable and attractive facility which allows significant cost savings to be made over previous training models.

Jim fielded regular interruptions and questions, principally from Chairman Chris and your illustrious scribe, with his usual good grace and honesty, covering not just the Hub but subjects including FA Cup replays, 3G pitches in general, the significant financial contribution made by the Duke of Westminster, the football regulator, and profit and sustainability.

All in all, a very pleasant and informative visit.