THORN ATHLETIC have officially launched their new girls’ team, with the help of the Scottish Football Association.

Head coach Charlene Reid, supported by Paul Reid, from the club’s 2008 side, has been running successful sessions for around 20 girls over the past few months.

The club has been supported by the Scottish FA’s West Region Club Development Manager Corrie Campbell and Tina Stewart, the Scottish FA’s Girls’ and Women’s Development Officer.

And, last week, they were at the club’s base at the McMaster Sports Centre, in Johnstone, to officially rubber-stamp the latest addition to the Thorn set-up.

Thorn will run teams at both under-11 and under-13 levels and have received a start-up grant to help meet the costs.

Club chairperson Mark McGee said: “It’s hugely exciting for us to finally get involved in female football. We are grateful to both Corrie and Tina for their support and we look forward to getting started.”

Head coach Charlene added: “We’ve had fantastic feedback from the girls and they are enjoying it, which is what it’s all about.”

The girls are on the lookout for a sponsor for their first ever kit. If you can help, call Mark on 0788 755 1234.

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