New Hibernian FC Manager, Mixu Paatelainen, recently joined over 100 young people at Meadowbank Sports Centre to launch an eight-week pilot community football drop-in programme.

The joint initiative, the result of a partnership between Edinburgh Leisure and Hibernian, will see young people aged 12+ enjoying structured football matches every Friday on the popular Meadowbank artificial pitches for only £1.00.

For their part, Hibs will provide the coaching staff and equipment while Edinburgh Leisure will provide the venue, set-up and administration. Edinburgh Leisure will also offer those young people with an interest in coaching with the opportunity to get involved in the ‘Youth Coaching Edinburgh’ scheme, whereby they can gain coaching qualifications and work experience.

Edinburgh Leisure’s Youth Volunteer Worker, Stewart Roy, saw the potential for the scheme having consulted with those teenagers already making regular use of the centre on a Friday afternoon.

“The young people were clearly enjoying the chance to play regular football but the message was coming across loud and clear was that they would prefer to have more structure to their games.

“Our partnership with Hibs will allow us to bring not only the structure they crave but also first class coaching – something that we hope will rub off on the kids and persuade them to get involved themselves.”

Mixu Paatelainen recognises the positive influence that football can have on the local community and was delighted to offer a helping hand.

“This is another important stepping stone for the Club and a fantastic opportunity for the youngsters in the area. Aside from promoting a sense of community and healthy living, this partnership will also inspire a new generation to reap the benefits of good team spirit.”

The official launch was followed by various activities such as ‘Hexagol’, a modular football system aimed at improving a player’s skill, various football inflatables and a series of mini-games.