Fans present Town’s Smith with birthday posters at Soccer School

Tommy Smith birthday posters (Image: Archant)

The young fans took the opportunity to give the town defender their presents as they took part in the fifth Tommy Smith Soccer School, held at Kesgrave High School last week.

A total of 40 children attended the three-day workshop, which helps budding young footballers to improve their skills under the guidance of ITFC coaches, and Tommy himself.

The group, all aged from seven to 11, also got to meet and have photographs with town striker Freddie Sears.

Speaking after completion of the course last week, Tommy, who turned 26 on Thursday, said: “It was so lovely to hear the kids singing happy birthday to me, I wasn’t expecting it, and thank you for the kind messages and notes.

Tommy Smith birthday posters (Image: Archant)

“A large number of those on this camp have been to one or more of our previous ones and it’s great to see them coming back as it means they must have enjoyed our previous courses. We had some new faces as well though and it’s equally great to welcome them. e hope to carry it on as long as possible.

“We try to encourage learning of particular skills during each of the three mornings. This is then followed by tournament play in the afternoon where the kids are asked to put what they have learned into a match situation.

“Freddie Sears kindly gave up his time to come and take some pictures with the attendees. It’s great for the kids to have their local heroes come down and say hello.

“It is a very enjoyable way of giving back to the community and helping to nurture some of the young football talent in the area.

“A lot of credit has to go to local clubs as well as we can see from our repeat attendees that their football is improving all the time.”