One of the many successes for the Communtiy Department last season was the introduction of the 'Saturday Specials'

This saw hundreds of local footballers given the chance to come along and enjoy a big day out with us, a day which included a special training session with our qualified coaches in the morning followed by a superb lunch at the OXY Chinese restaurant. The youngsters then came along to watch United in action in a home game in the afternoon, with a tour behind the scenes and then penalty shoot outs on the pitch at half time.

Peter Rhoades-Brown, our Community Officer told us how much everyone enjoyed the day:

"It was a great thing to see. We wanted to build the links that little bit stronger with local boys and girls football teams, and especially those that had achieved the FA Charter mark.

"We went along to Oxford Community School in the mornings and gave them the chance to work with our coaches and to show us what good players they were, then came back to the ground and relaxed a bit with lunch at the Oxy, which was always first class.

"Then they'd all sit together in the North Stand and cheer on the team, and they'd really get involved in the match, then come and wave to the crowd at half time.

"There were hundreds and hundreds of smiling faces over the course of the season and some fantastic letters saying thank you and how much they enjoyed the day. Hopefully they will all be back to watch plenty more games in the future.

"We are currently looking at the fixture list for the coming season and how we can fit in all the clubs who have already enquired. It's incredibly popular so if any clubs out there are thinking about applying then they need to get in touch and we'll see what we can do."

If your club has achieved the FA Charter mark and would like to come and join us for a Saturday Special then give Peter a ring on 01865 337525