Football Focus Issue 54 | Page 55

Vinters Vinters FOOTBALL CLUB V inters FC’s origins go back to 1974 when Vinters Park FC was first established in the Maidstone area to give youngsters an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment. The club has come a long way since then and was able to celebrate its 40th anniversary last year. They are currently led by Chairman Mark Tanner who is supported by Secretary John Cross and has progressed well under their guidance. Over the years Vinters FC has put together a history of which they have every right to be proud and formed Vinters Green in 1989, allowing them to field two sides in each age group. They have continued to grow since with Vinters Valley being formed in 2005 and Vinters Rangers in 2011. The club as a whole formally became known as Vinters FC in 2011 to ensure that it was fully integrated and their team’s now all wear Green/ White striped shirts and black shorts. They are based at Valley Park Playing Fields in Kent and thank Valley Invicta Academies Trust on their official website for allowing them to use the facilities which include an FA approved fullsize 3G pitch. As well as regular training and matches, Vinters also hold their annual 5-a-side tournament on the first Saturday in July which is one of the largest one day soccer tournaments in Kent. This sees 200 teams competing from over 60 different clubs. Football Focus Magazine were keen to find out more about the good work that the club has been doing in recent times and Chairman Mark Tanner took the time to tell us more, saying, “I have been involved with the Club since my son joined the development squad aged 4 in 2000. Basically it was local and his friend joined. “It is massively rewarding getting to watch some of the 350 plus young players we have signed enjoy playing their sport of choice. The most challenging part is gaining appropriate funding. To celebrate our 40th anniversary we pro