Having been unable to find a company to sponsor their kit this season, Springfield Football Club U8s took it upon themselves to raise the money themselves to get kitted out for the new season.
One young team of footballers had a day to remember at the U's home against Oldham Athletic at the start of December.
A sponsored walk helped them to raise over £800, a fantastic total.
And, as a result, the U's players welcomed the team members to the stadium by donating tickets for them to come and watch the game.
The boys got to have a special tour of the stadium before the match, as well as the chance to strut their stuff on the Astroturf pitches before the match.
And, as a result, the U's players welcomed the team members to the stadium by donating tickets for them to come and watch the game.
The boys got to have a special tour of the stadium before the match, as well as the chance to strut their stuff on the Astroturf pitches before the match.
Jacob Brewer, a midfielder for Springfield said: "It was brilliant, I thoroughly enjoyed the stadium walk with Matt and I can't wait to play on a pitch like Colchester United's."
Rory Probert, who shows versatility as a goalkeeper and midfielder enjoyed his chance of meeting the players before the game, with the youngsters getting the chance to go into the dressing rooms as the players were arriving.
He added: "I wish Colchester had won, but it was great to meet man of the match Ian Henderson. The stadium tour was fantastic - I even got to make a super-save on the astro-turf training pitch!"
He added: "I wish Colchester had won, but it was great to meet man of the match Ian Henderson. The stadium tour was fantastic - I even got to make a super-save on the astro-turf training pitch!"
Springfield are just the latest club to benefit from the U's players' generosity and there are set to be more local youngsters to benefit in early 2013, so watch this space!
Joshua Bunby, who plays in midfield or up front said: "The day was pretty fantastic and I loved the coaching with Jack”, whilst his brother William (a defender) added: "I loved sitting in the Manager's seat on the touchline and meeting Tom Eastman."
Chelmsford based Springfield are the latest side to benefit from the generosity of the U's players this season - keep your eyes open for more of the same in the coming weeks as the season gathers pace!
Joshua Bunby, who plays in midfield or up front said: "The day was pretty fantastic and I loved the coaching with Jack”, whilst his brother William (a defender) added: "I loved sitting in the Manager's seat on the touchline and meeting Tom Eastman."
Chelmsford based Springfield are the latest side to benefit from the generosity of the U's players this season - keep your eyes open for more of the same in the coming weeks as the season gathers pace!