Hird and Evatt launch Mini Kicks Academy in Chesterfield

The academy encourages activity through football for boys and girls aged two to six, putting an emphasis on physical and social development.

First sessions are set to take place on Saturday, April 30 at Outwood Academy Newbold and Sunday, May 1 at Queen’s Park Leisure Centre.

Hird said: “We were first introduced to mini kicks through the owner, who is a friend of mine.

“My son Harry has been going to mini kicks in Doncaster for three years and he loves it, and the kids absolutely love it.

“I approached Ian who, like myself, was very excited by the idea. He has twins of his own and he expressed his desire for something like this in the Chesterfield area.

“We think it will be a big hit with the kids and can’t wait to get started.

“Ian and myself will be running the academies along with our mini kicks trained coaches.”

The academy will be similar to those established in Doncaster, Scunthorpe, Rotherham, Mansfield, Hull, Lincoln and Harrogate.

“Mini kicks is way more than just football,” added Hird. “The programme offers a fun, high energy age appropriate introduction to physical activity through football.

“Our curriculum emphasis is both physical and social development of our children.

“The mini kicks academy uses football to promote healthy lifestyle at a key development age.

“It helps children develop confidence, motor, listening and socialisation skills.”

But Hird said it’s not all just about football.

“Yes, each child will have their own ball for the whole session while we develop their skills but it will be done so in a way that makes sessions creative, unique and fun.

“You won’t find a ball dropped in the middle of ten kids to play a ‘match’ anywhere at mini kicks. Mini kicks is for boys and girls aged two-six-year-olds.

“We also hope to be launching a ‘mighty kicks’ for six-eight-year-olds in the near future.

“To book a class please visit our Facebook page mini kicks Chesterfield and follow the instructions. Or, alternatively, go straight to minikicks.org to book.

“We can’t wait to see you there and for you to become part of the mini kicks team.”