Our teams are putting their final preparations in as the new grass roots season kicks off on Saturday (6 September).

We grabbed a couple of our coaches as they threw cones down mid-training on the eve of the new campaign to find out how they see the season panning out.

First up was Panthers under-10s boys (pictured above) manager Ste Greggan:

How was pre-season?
We had a lot of holidays among the squad, so they should all be refreshed and raring to go.

What are your hopes for the season ahead?
More of the same hopefully. Last season was really enjoyable and we scored more goals and won more games than the previous campaign, so we would like to keep scoring, winning and enjoying more games.

In just five words, what would make a good season?
Team development with enjoyment all-season.

Next we found Diamonds girls under-12s coach Mark mid-marking the nine-aside pitch at St Mary's Park...

How was pre-season?
It went really well. We only missed training once all summer, which is a credit to everyone. The last few weeks we have worked really hard on fitness and ball retention, playing lots of possession games, encouraging the girls to find good space and recycle the ball quickly. As always, arranging friendlies in summer was nigh on impossible, but we go into the season on the back of a comfortable win against decent opposition last Sunday. 

What are your hopes for the season ahead?
We are entering competitive football for the first time and have been placed in the top division of the Bolton and Bury District Football League. Our hopes and dreams for the season are to be in the mix for the title and to continue our excellent form in knock-out football with a good cup run.

In just five words, what would make a good season?
All the girls enjoying themselves.

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