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News Archive
Festival of Football Extended to U9's Teams:
 9 May 2006 - The U10’s section at the forthcoming AFC Lightning Festival of Football has been extended to include U9’s teams. Managers should note that U9 teams should be competent and aware of the challenge a 2 year playing zone can mean. Managers wishing to put forward teams for consideration for the Saturday afternoon session must do so before 22nd May, via an application form by clicking here.
Entry is on a first come, first served basis and at the discretion of AFC Lightning.
U10’s Help in Combination Challenge Cup Final
 7 May 2006 - AFC Lightning Under 10 were invited to be the Ball Boys for the High Wycombe Sunday Football Combination Challenge Cup Final on Sunday 7th May. The Match was played at Burnham Football Club with Wycombe Town facing Italia Unita. AFC Lightning Under 10's all turned up in there white kit and took there positions in line and were all introduce to the Chairman of Burnham football and members of the High Wycombe Sunday Football Combination committee.
They took there position around the pitch ready to retrieve the footballs balls and the game began.
The first half was a even affair but goalless. At half time the organisers arranged for refreshment for all the AFC Lightning Under 10 ball boys which recharged there batteries for the second half. Wycombe Town started the better team but Italia Unita rode the storm and then started to create the changes, with there work rate increasing they finally punished Wycombe Town and took a 2 nil advantage. Wycombe did score a consolation goal in the final minute of normal time but Italia Unita held on for a 2 - 1 victory.
The presentation started will all the AFC Lightning Under 10s receiving a round of applause with cheers as they were all invited up to receive a commemorative medal for their services.
NO TRAINING FOR GIRLS SQUAD or U8’s W.C. 2nd MAY.
 Due to entries into tournaments this weekend (6th-7th May), there will be no training for the girls squad or U8’s this week (that’s Thu 4th or Sat 6th). Please keep tuned in for further updates on training times and dates.
29 April .. 1 May - Weekend Results
U13's: Wendover Jnrs 6 0 AFC Lightning
The Under 13’s suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of leaders Wendover Jnrs in their penultimate match of the season. Although it took time to show their superiority and with AFC Lightning missing chances to take the lead, Wendover proved too strong and ran in comfortable winners.
Bucks Girls League Tournament U10's & Penn & Tylers Green Tournament:
The Girls Under 9’s (playing Under 10’s) had a good day at Aylesbury on Saturday 30th, reaching the semi-finals before bowing out to a strong Wycombe side. The group matches produced two comfortable wins and one loss to eventual winners, the Wasps. The squad was -: Ella, Alice, Megan, Saskia, Zoe, Megan, Emma, Charlotte D. Charlotte L. & Izzie.
Meanwhile the Under 8’s at Penn & Tylers on the Sunday with two sides, produced a professional display over the combined 10 matches – winning 5, drawing 4 and losing just 1 (0-1 to a dubious looking penalty). The U8’s teams looked for the most part comfortable and produced some fantastic football at times. Squads: Tom, Toby, Adam, Jack, Aidan, Seb, Alex H.; Georgia, Opone, Marc, Nicholas, Jake, Ollie & Danny.
 The Under 7’s appearance at Penn & Tylers on the Monday morning was sadly cancelled due to overnight and early rain. However the Under 9’s afternoon tournament went ahead – with an even mix of our U8’s players and our girls U9’s. This was always going to be a tough test, but the players gelled together and supported each other throughout. Although no wins resulted, there were some fine performances and plenty of experience was gained in what was a worthwhile and pleasant outing for all concerned. Squads: Zoe, Emma, Alice, Danii, Adam, Henry, Katie; Sam, Tom, Toby, Alex B. Georgia, Juliette & Megan.
Click here for full report and picture gallery
Annual Dinner Dance Success!!
 30 April 2006 - On Saturday the Annual Dinner Dance was held and can truly be described as great success. With a good turnout a great time was had by all.
Our thanks go to Teresa for organising the event.
Misbourne Golden Jubilee
 28 April 2006 - The Misbourne School will be holding a Jubilee Fete, Sunday 18th June 1 - 4.30pm. AFC Lightning will be actively supporting this event through the running of Target Goal, golf game and a some friendly sided matches against Prestwood Colts. Attractions include all sorts of stalls, sideshows, games and displays are being organised to make this a memorable birthday celebration.Amongst numerous other attractions, look out for: fun sumo wrestling; 12+ driving school; football; live music; traction engine rides; candy tombola; plant, craft, bric-a-brac and cake stalls; beer tent with guest local ales; swingboats; bouncy castle, and even an appearance by 'Elvis'!
We would love to see you there and wish the School a big happy birthday from us all.
AFC Lightning Players/Coaches Wanted for 2006/7 Season
 27 April 2006 - The new season may well be several months away but the necessary forms for new players and new teams have to be submitted in weeks rather than months. Therefore if you are keen to pick up the baton and come to a club with FA Charter Status - a club that is moving onwards and upwards, then this is the time for you to make contact with us.
For season 2006/7; AFC Lightning already have interest in forming U10’s, U12’s and U15’s teams. If you play for a club and would prefer a fresh start, the why not talk to your colleagues and consider playing for AFC Lightning? At U10’s & U15’s level we would also require a coach/manager.
Meanwhile, and for other sections – if you have a desire to play for a positive and front-footed football club, then we’d be pleased to hear from you.
2006/7 squad contacts:
 U6’s Development: david@AFC Lightning.com
U7’s: sean@AFC Lightning.com
U8’s: claire@AFC Lightning.com
U9’s: jim@AFC Lightning.com
U11’s: marco@AFC Lightning.com
U12’s (new) sean@AFC Lightning.com
U14’s paul@AFC Lightning.com
U15’s (new) jim@AFC Lightning.com
U16’s roger@AFC Lightning.com
Girls only U10’s jim@AFC Lightning.com
Girls only U14’s roger@AFC Lightning.com
U6’s Festival Fun !!!!
 27 April 2006 - In line with FA rules and regulations, AFC Lightning will not be running competitive football matches for the Under 6’s at the forthcoming AFC Lightning Festival of Football in June. Instead, teams will be taking part in a morning of fun-filled football development based games, full of skill and fun-based activities, on behalf of your club. If you are a U6’s manager and would like to put your boys and girls through their paces, then please contact AFC Lightning manager Sean, by emailing sean@AFC Lightning.com It may not be matches, but it’ll be testing, worthwhile and totally enjoyable for all concerned !
U13’s Midweek Result
U13's: Aston Clinton Colts 2 - AFC Lightning 6
26 April 2006 - In the first midweek game of the season for any of our age groups, the U13’s once again gave themselves a possible promotion window with an emphatic win at Aston Clinton.
With a bright but fading sun to their backs and a following breeze, it took AFC Lightning 20 minutes to gain the necessary composure necessary to take advantage of their first half superiority. When it did come however, it came with a flourish and a 3-0 half time score-line was far from flattering.
The second half was however much more even and it told, for within 5 minutes of the restart, Aston Clinton had pulled 2 goals back due to an absent AFC Lightning midfield, some slack marking at the back and well placed shots by the Aston Clinton forwards. However order was gradually restored and persistent through balls to striker Toby eventually told, 4-2 became 5-2 and one final goal was squeezed in before the end.
AFC Lightning now travel to top of the table Wendover on Sunday, followed by an away match versus Amersham in mid-May. Both matches probably need to be won if promotion is to be realised.
U7's Win SBMSC Fair Play Award !!
24 April 2006 - Congratulations to U7's manager Claire Parsons and her squad of players, coaches and officials for a magnificent achievement in winning the South Bucks Mini Soccer Conference U7’s fair play award for 2005/6.
The award is a culmination of the fair play scores of coaches, players & supporters - as given by opposing teams; so there is no hiding the fact that the AFC Lightning have achieved something the other 27 teams in the U7’s age group would have dearly liked to have done.
The Under 7's will receive their award at a future Wycombe Wanderers home tie.
Meanwhile AFC Lightning's U8's & U10's finished in the top half of their fair play tables in 13th and 17th respectively. Well done to all concerned !
Girl's Squad Training Details for this Week
24 April 2006 - U7’s-U10’s girls training is scheduled for 17.15-18.15 on Thursday 27th April. Meanwhile, U11-U14’s girls training is set for Saturday 29th April 1115-1230.
Note: There will be no training for the U7’s to U10’s girls on Saturday.
Results from 22-23 April 2006
U15's: Marlow Youth 1 2 AFC Lightning
 AFC Lightning produced their gutsiest and arguably their best defensive performance of the season against top-of-the-table Marlow Youth to come away with a superb win - and possibly a back door entry into division one for next season.
Marlow arranged their final home match of the season at nearby Bisham Abbey – the England training ground. With a near flawless but greasy surface, England women’s team training adjacent to the pitch, and an all blue v all white affair - the scene was set.
It was evident from the start that Marlow were on the front foot, packing the midfield and threatening with their pacey forwards. However it was AFC Lightning who took the lead on the break after some 12 or so mins, with Luke latching onto an excellent through ball to neatly slot home.
More Marlow pressure then followed and after 30 mins a similar kind of through ball was pounced on to by a Marlow forward, who from all angles appeared a couple of yards offside. No flag however and once again the ball was despatched without hesitation. 
The rest of the match was a tense affair full of tactical maneuvers. Marlow’s front-foot pace and aggression v AFC Lightning’s defensive masterly and growing determination. Chances went begging on both sides, with the set plays of AFC Lightning particularly dangerous. It however all came down to the final minute and a superb cross by Danyll for Luke to slide in at the far post. The AFC Lightning team supporters hit the roof !
U7’s & U8’s Loudwater Tournament:
 On a sunny and warm morning, the all white kits of AFC Lightning teams stood out a million miles on this the curtain raiser to the tournament season. The U8’s with two teams competing, were in ebullient mood and produced some great team football. It wasn’t all one way traffic though and one or two errors and one terrific goal, kept feet firmly on the ground. However, as a first outing managers Jim & Sharon were very pleased with how the teams equipped themselves. Meanwhile, the U7’s in their first tournament showed that they could achieve good results against some tough competition with some notable results. Thanks to Loudwater for their hosting of the tournament.
Congratulations to AFC’s U15’s Simon
 26 April 2006 - AFC Lightning’s U15 Simon enjoyed a two day trial at Crystal Palace FC in the previous week. Simon the Captain of the team, who has been a stalwart in AFC Lightning’s defence all season deserved his opportunity to mix it with other talented players from across the country - and now he is delighted to learn that from a contingent of 26 that were attended, he is one of just 6 to have been asked back for a further trial in August.
** It is AFC Lightning’s policy to generally accept such invitations from professional clubs, in order that AFC Lightning players are given as much opportunity to impress and move forward, if they have the desire and capability to do well.
Good Luck Tom Orange in London Marathon !!!!
 22 April 2006 - AFC Lightning Under 13’s Coach Tom Orange is participating in the London marathon this Sunday and we all wish him well on those 26 miles and 345 yards!!
Start: Greenwich Park between 9:00 and 9:45.
Finish: The Mall
Length: 26.2 miles
Number of Entrants: approx. 32,000
Record Holders:
Men - Khalid Khannouchi (USA) finished in 2.05:38 in 2002
Women - Paula Radcliffe (GBR) finished in 2.15:25 in 2003
FA Women's Cup Final Tickets Available via AFC Lightning
 17 April 2006 - As an FA Charter Standard Club, AFC Lightning have been allocated a number of tickets for the FA Womans' Cup Final at the Den, Millwall, between Arsenal and Leeds on Monday 1st May kick off 1 p.m. Players & Parents wishing to go, may apply to the Club Secretary via email to jim@AFC Lightning.com . (U9's girls only and U8's players note that there is a Penn & Tylers Tournmanet you may been entered for, so please check first).
Thursday Training for U8's, U10’s girls & U15's
 17 April 2006 - Training re-commences for the U8’s & U10’s girls from 17.15 to 18.15 Thursday 20th, with an U15’s session starting at 1800 – all at the Misbourne. Girls squad players need to complete their spring/summer tournament availability in asap – to jim@AFC Lightning.com
Hazlemere Golf Club Open Day
 12 April 2006 - In an effort to forge greater links with the local community, AFC Lightning are happy to promote details of Hazlemere Golf Clubs Open Day. The invitation to play 9 holes with a member includes a buffet with wine after the golf. The professionals will be on the course to offer advice and a short presentation detailing membership offers will be provided. It will start at 12 noon on Sunday 30th April. If you are interested please contact Hazlemere Golf Club on 01494 719300 or Fax 01494 713914 or e-mail enquiries@hazlemeregolfclub.co.uk
AFC Lightning Festival of Football - Girls only teams FREE entry !!!!
 10 April 2006 - Girls teams considering taking part in the AFC Lightning Festival of Football on Saturday 24th June (for the girls), should know that team entry is now FREE. Entries on a first-come first-served basis by completing the application form
Results...Results....Results..8th/9th April
U13's: Thame Youth 0 2 AFC Lightning
 9 April 2006 - AFC Lightning’s U13’s cruised to an easy win against Thame Youth to virtually secure their place in the division for next year and maybe set up and exciting end at the promotion end of things. AFC Lightning were in control for 80% of the game – indeed Ryan the AFC Lightning goalkeeper, hardly touched the ball all game. With a little more composure and a bit more luck in front of goal, AFC Lightning would have won the game by a much bigger margin but the 2-0 score-line secured the 3 points.
Meanwhile, AFC Lightning’s U10 girls played a series of matches against Pitstone & Ivinghoe, Penn & Tylers, Vale Reds and Leighton on Saturday in Aylesbury, winning 3 and losing the one by the odd goal. The girls are gelling together nicely ahead of the tournament season – more so the fact that they are playing 1 or 2 years up. Well done to the squad that travelled, namely Zoe, Megan, Georgia, Alice, Izzy, Emma and Ella.
No Training Easter week (apart from U13’s).
 9 April 2006 - With the exception of the U13’s who are training Saturday 15th; there is no training for any section for the week beginning 10th to 17th April.
HAPPY EASTER !!!!!
 9 April 2006 - Happy Easter to players, parents, sponsors, friends and families associated with AFC Lightning.
Free Draw at Dinner Dance
 6 April 2006 - At the Annual Dinner Dance on 29th April we are pleased to announce a special free draw will take place for all attendees to have a chance to win two free players membership fees for the 2006/7 season. Tickets are available from Teresa e-mail: teresa@AFC Lightning.com or call 01494 816483. For more details of the dinner dance click here. Meanwhile, if you intend to go to the Dinner Dance, please could payment be made asap. Thank you.
U13's Weekend Training/Match Details:
6 Apirl 2006 - There is no Friday training for the U13’s. Saturday’s training will be at the Misbourne 1000-1130. Sunday’s match away to Thame Youth is an 11.00 kick off. Those players selected for the match should meet in the lower car park of Wycombe Sports Centre (Handy Cross) at 10.00.
Crystal Palace FC Offer Trials to 3 Players:
4 April 2006 - AFC Lightning are proud to announce that three AFC Lightning Under 15’s players have been invited to Crystal Palace FC Academy for a 2 day trial in mid April, should they wish to take it up. The trials involve time out of school and an overnight stay, with a match situation on the 2nd day – all behind closed doors. These trials come on top of earlier interest in certain U15’s players from Reading & QPR.
Girl's U10's on Stand-by for Aylesbury
 4 April 2006 - AFC Lightning U10’s girls are on stand-by for a series of matches at Aylesbury on Saturday 8 April. However, FA organiser Lisa Welling is dependent upon enough teams making themselves available in time. The AFC Lightning U10’s girls who formed the backbone of the Aylesbury matches the last time around will figure again if the matches go ahead, probably with no more than the odd change. Please stand-by for more information.
Tough Times at Adidas 5's for U13’s & U15’s.
4 April 2006 - The regional Adidas 5 a sides – held at the Goal astro arena close to Heathrow, was a baptism of fire for AFC Lightning’s Under 13’s and Under 15’s. Both age groups were playing 1 year above their station (i.e. U14’s & U16’s) and it showed as the physical side of regional football came through.
Read the full report
Children's quiz results
  4 April 2006 - Thank-you to all the children who entered their quiz, the results are as follows, in 3rd place scoring 41 points out of 45 were Spain, in joint 1st place scoring 42 points out of 45 were Germany and Sweden, unfortunately there are no names on the sheets so please can the winners make themselves known to AFC Lightning Managers/Members so that we can give you your prize!
Results 1st/2nd April.....Results 1st/2nd April...
Girl’s U10’s Lost to Holy Trinity (friendly)
Girl’s U14’s Lost to Holy Trinity (friendly)
U8’s Won v Downley Dynamoes (friendly)
U13’s: AFC Lightning 1 2 Chalfont Wasps (Div 3 League)
U15’s: AFC Lightning 0 2 Risborough Rangers (friendly)
 A packed weekend of ups and downs (bit like the weather) saw the U13’s fall to a disappointing result against Chalfont Wasps by a margin of 1-2 – once again denting promotion hopes. AFC Lightning’s back 4 of Chris D. Sam, Bradley and Richard defended stoutly – but a lack of commitment in the more forward quarters told and with 10 minutes to go Chalfont secured a victory their commitment deserved. 
The Under 8’s meanwhile again stepped forward and showed what a class act they are becoming with some superb link-up play which produced a total tally of 10 goals, versus just a couple conceded. Downley did have spirit and never gave up, though the passing play and finishing prowess of AFC Lightning proved decisive.
A depleted U15’s team playing in a friendly at home to division one champions Risborough produced an entertaining and committed performance the AFC Lightning boys should be proud of. Risborough did pressurise for lengthy periods but on the break AFC Lightning had their chances. Two goals secured the Risborough win, but full marks to AFC Lightning and with a full squad next time, who knows ?
Finally, 24 hours earlier the girl’s only squad (U10’s & U14’s) played 4 matches against the seasoned girls from Holy Trinity. The results went modestly against – largely because of a substantial age and experience differential, but plenty was taken onboard and in most cases the girls enjoyed their first competitive outing.
Girl's Only Squad Saturday Details
29 March 2006 - The girl’s only squad should meet in the sports hall at 10.10 a.m. on Saturday 1st Apr for a home match v Holy Trinity. We have U10’s and U14’s matches. U14’s girls will wear yellow and black; U10’s girls all white. Any player already with a kit should bring it along. Whilst not disturbing the shape of the teams too much, we will attempt to swop players in and out as coaches are able. However, the number and age-range of players means not every player will play v Holy Trinity – though for those that don’t we will arrange a training match to follow. Parents/players should keep updated via the website in case of any last minute changes/cancellations etc.
Nominations for Officer Positions Opens:
27 March 2006 - Nominations for the following officer positions are invited from adult members of AFC Lightning, in time for the AFC Lightning AGM on May 18th 2006 -:
Chairman
Vice Chairman
Secretary
Treasurer
Football Development Officer
Child Protection Officer
Membership Officer
Press & Publicity Officer
Social Officer
If you wish to nominate a member or if you would like to join the committee as an ordinary committee member, then please forward names to the current secretary via jim@AFC Lightning.com Nominations for officer positions will close on April 30th 2006.
AFC Lightning Quiz Night Pulsates !
 25 March 2006 - Many thanks to the 151 attendees at the first ever AFC Lightning quiz night held at the Misbourne. A great evening ! Well done to 'Portugal' for winning by a point and well done to the other prize winners of the night. Despite the family event not being a fundraiser as such, a tidy sum was raised and this as ever will go towards the development, welfare and enjoyment of AFC Lightning players and the club generally.
Results 25th March... Results 25th March....
U13’s: Chalfont Wasps 2 5 AFC Lightning
U15’s: Bourne End JSC 1 1 AFC Lightning
Sunday the 26th March marked the match debut of the Under 6’s in a friendly against Aston Clinton, which saw a good and positive display by the AFC Lightning squad. 
The Under 8’s also at home, took on the formidable Prestwood Colts. A series of close encounters ensued, AFC Lightning played some wonderful ‘grown-up’ football and looked the part throughout. Some better finishing and any degree of luck could and should have produced a different result. Well done to both teams!
The U10’s played Phoenix St Johns at Aston Clinton and came away with positive results.
 The U13’s away at Chalfont Wasps, dug deep to produce one of their best collective displays of the season. Always in control, AFC Lightning pressed home a 2-1 half time advantage and in the end ran out comfortable winners by 5-2. However, but for the heroics of the Chalfont goalkeeper the AFC Lightning score could have been double.
 Finally the U15’s away to top of the table Bourne End, came away with a creditable 1-1 draw. It’s fair to say that the match was one of two halves and could have been won by either team. Despite a string of impressive results in the second half of the season, the result however means AFC Lightning’s chances of promotion hang by a thread with one match to go.
John Lewis do AFC Lightning proud ....once again !!!!
25 March 2006 - AFC Lightning main sponsor, John Lewis (High Wycombe) have once again done AFC Lightning proud and kindly donated another substantial sum to help the club. The funding was in recognition of the rapid growth of AFC Lightning and in particular the emergence of a strong and vibrant all-girl’s squad. The committee, coaches, players and parents would like to thank John Lewis once again for their kind generosity.
U7’s Train With Chelsea Academy
 23 March 2006 - The under 7’s on Monday evening trained with Chelsea Academy in a great opportunity to display and learn more skills. This is part of the growing links that AFC Lightning has managed to develop with several professional clubs including Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Watford, QPR and Reading. We will continue to look to offer and provide positive opportunities to learn and develop as individuals as well as team members within the club.
Two more FA Level 1 Coaches for AFC Lightning
 20 March 2006 - Congratulations to Sean McAndrew (Manager Under 6’s) and David Parsons (Manager U5’s) , who both recently qualified as FA Level 1 Coaches. Sean and David both enjoyed their courses and their coaching qualifications make AFC Lightning one of the most qualified junior football clubs in the South Bucks region.
Results 19th March....Results 19th March
U15's: AFC Holmer Green 4 2 Wendover Juniors
U13's: Downley Dynamoes 3 2 AFC Lightning
 The U15’s at home to Wendover Juniors came away with a well deserved victory to keep the pressure up at the top end of the 2nd division. AFC Lightning dominated for large parts of the game, playing some excellent football along the way. Wendover however took their very few chances well and made a game of it to the death, as AFC Lightning finished with only 10 men due to a series of injuries. (See photo left)
The U13’s meanwhile conceded a 2-0 lead away to Downley Dynamoes to go down to a very disappointing 2-3 reverse; effectively making it an uphill task for promotion to the 2nd division. 
The U10’s played a successful friendly match against Wendover Juniors.
Meanwhile AFC Lightning’s U7’s continued their impressive form of late in their final SBMSC match of the season at home to a valiant Hughenden Valley team. (See photo right)
Manager’s Reports to follow
Last Call for Quiz Evening:
 19 March 2006 - With over 130 tickets now sold for the Saturday 25th March event at the Misbourne, time is running out if you want to be part of what promises to be a very enjoyable family evening. If you want to reserve tickets but haven’t yet managed it, then please do so now by e-mailing jim@AFC Lightning.com Remember, bring your own nibbles and drinks, a pen/pencil and of course your very best polished brain!!!
Fantabuloso....AFC Lightning’s Winning Weekend !!!
12th March 2006 - AFC Lightning secured a fantastic set of positive results weekend 11th/12th March – with all our teams coming out on top in their respective matches.
It all started with the girl’s only U10’s matches on Saturday, where an 8 strong set of U9’s girls put on a terrific first time display to come away with 2 wins from 3 against Crendon A & B and Vale Reds.
The Under 8’s then went to Hughenden Valley on Sunday morning with positive displays on what were arguably the smallest pitches in the known universe.
The baton was picked-up by the U7’s who secured a very a positive display at home to Naphill. This was then followed by a creditable U13’s 1-0 victory in an entertaining and close encounter with Downley Dynamoes. Meanwhile, the U10’s playing against Crendon Corinthians at Aston Clinton continued the winning theme conceding none.
Finally, the U15’s played table-toppers Bourne End JSC and rounded off a superb weekend with a closely fought but well deserved 2-1 home victory.
Quiz to Auction Signed Football
10th March 2006 - The AFC Lightning family quiz on March 25th will auction a Mitre Charter Standard Club football, presented to AFC Lightning by the FA on achieving Charter Standard and signed with his best wishes by ex England and West Ham United star and now the head of FA Development, Sir Trevor Brooking. If you wish to make a bid ahead of the quiz then please email your name, address, telephone number and amount you wish to bid to jim@AFC Lightning.com All proceeds from the auction will go to club funds for the onward development of AFC Lightning players.
F.A. Officially Present Charter Status
 5th March 2006 - Sir Trevor Brooking and Mr Jim Atkins, Chairmen of the Berks and Bucks FA formally presented AFC Lightning with the Award at the Women’s FA Cup Final in front of 3,500 fans. Three players were selected to represent AFC Lightning in receiving this important award. Sir Trevor was especially keen to talk to the players about their teams and their goals.
Sir Trevor Brooking the FA's Director of Football Development passed on his congratulations. "Clubs such as AFC Holmer Green are the cornerstones of The FA's grassroots football strategy. Achieving FA Charter Standard Club status can be achieved by clubs who are committed to putting themselves at the heart of their local football communities, not only for existing participants but for future generations too."
The award ceremony taking place at half time on the pitch and with special announcements to the crowd, huge cheers, autographs and mention in the programme it certainly was a great day for the Club.
A special thanks to all the team at the FA for their support.
Quiz Tickets selling like Hot Cakes !!
With almost 4 weeks still to go before the event, the AFC Lightning quiz is selling like hot cakes, with 82 tickets already sold. There is a limit on numbers, so if you want to attend what promise to be an entertaining and inexpensive evening, please email jim@AFC Lightning.com soonest and reserve your tickets
Results 5th March ..... Results 5th March....
U15's: AFC Lightning 2 3 Flackwell Heath .... U13's Holtspur FC 4 0 AFC Lightning
5 March 2006 - It was very disappointing for some this Sunday but good for others, the U13's went down to a 0-4 loss away to Holtspur. Comfortably holding things 0-0 at half time, the home side ran out the winners in the second, though it would be fair to say the scoreline was rather flattering.
Meanwhile, the recent good run for the U15's came to a halt against high flying Flackwell Heath in a 2-3 defeat. Two sloppy first half goals allowed Flackwell an advantage they did not deserve. A third Flackwell goal 15 minutes into the second half appeared to confirm an away victory, before a resolute AFC Lightning comeback clawed the game back to 2-3. The game was however marred by the highly questionable antics of the Flackwell outfit, who finished with four bookings and in the end an extremely fortunate victory.
The U10's secured a positive but close set of results against Downley Dynamoes. The first match being drawn and the second falling to AFC Lightning by the odd goal in 5.
The Under 7’s meanwhile showed a great deal team spirit and good play in having four matches with teams from Wendover each of which were very closely fought. Congratulations to Morgan on a well earned hat-trick.
Aylesbury Girls-only match off due to frost
3 March 2006 - For those girls who had been penciled in to go to Aylesbury this Saturday, the matches have been called off by the local council due to the high frost potential. The matches are hoping to be re-scheduled for March 11th.
Committee Cup - The First Award
 2 March 2006 - A few words from Sean McAndrew, our Vice Chairmen - “The cup will be awarded to any person directly involved with AFC Lightning. Whether they be a committee member manager or catering volunteers or even a committed parent. The cup will be awarded every meeting to the person who the previous winner thinks deserves it. The cup can be awarded for any number of reasons be it football related or any good cause for the club.
As founder of the cup I am delighted to offer it to Denis Degalas for his commitment and dedication to AFC Lightning. Denis has agreed to help take care of our u13 big squad, also his company have helped us in putting together our festival of football program with leaflets and much valued sponsorship. As a club we are delighted to have Denis on board.
That just leaves me to congratulate Denis on being the first to win the committee cup.“
U13's Friendly Arranged – Saturday 4th March 1000 KO
28 February 2006 - Weather allowing, the Under 13's have a home friendly arranged on Saturday 4th March versus Hughenden Valley. The kick off is scheduled for 10.00 – and players should meet at 09.30, dressed in normal match kit – but to meet the weather of the day (gloves, tops etc). The League game away to Holtspur FC the following day remains scheduled.
Arctic-like Weather Set to Jeopardise Weekend
 27 February 2006 - Training and match programmes could well be threatened this coming weekend (4th/5th March). A cold week with likely snow Thursday/Friday and an icy weekend to follow, may put pay to outside activities. Parents and players should stand-by and keep tuned in for last minute changes and/or postponements.
Results...Results... 26 February:
U15's: Chiltern Athletic Saints 0 5 AFC Lightning .... U13's: AFC Lightning 2 2 Holtspur
The U15's cruised to a comfortable 5-0 victory away to Chiltern Athletic Saints. The win (the 4th in a row for AFC Lightning) keeps the pressure on those teams at the top of the table, with a promotion spot still very much a possibility.
The U13's meanwhile arguably should have walked away with a win to maintain their push for promotion, but stumbled  to two second half Holtspur goals as the spoils were disappointingly shared.
The U10's had a tough encounter at home to Hughenden, with a couple of low scoring matches, Hughenden just about taking the spoils after a narrow first round victory.
Finally, the U8's played against an enterprising Haddenham Youth outfit. The first round of matches both went comfortably to AFC Lightning, scoring without reply. Haddenham dug deep in the 2nd phase and clawed back one win but it wasn’t enough as AFC Lightning stormed back from 0-1 down at time to run out deserved winners in the 2nd match.
AFC Lightning Catering Bar hits a record note !
Sunday 26th Feb was certainly a day to remember for AFC Lightning’s catering bar, with the cold weather prompting record sales of hot drinks etc. With the U8’s U10’s and U13’s all at home, the bar was busy throughout, with both home and opposition parents singing the praises for the hospitality offered.
 Complimentary Cup Final Tickets for AFC Lightning
21st February 2006 - As a Charter Standard Club, AFC Lightning have been contacted by the FA with an offer of up to 25 complimentary tickets for the FA Nationwide Women’s Premier League Cup Final, between Arsenal and Charlton Athletic. The match takes place at 3 pm on Sunday 5th March at The Causeway Stadium, Wycombe Wanderers FC. Given our burgeoning all-girls squad, AFC Lightning have applied for the full compliment of tickets. Contact jim@AFC Lightning.com to put your name down.
19 February Results
U13's: AFC Holmer Green 4 1 Haddenham Youth - U15's: Wendover Juniors 1 4 AFC Holmer Green
 19 February 2006 -Both the Under 13's & Under 15's produced 4-1 wins to dispel any remote threat of relegation and in both cases keep up hope of a top two promotion spot at the end of the season.
The U13's made hard work of the first half against lowly Haddenham Youth, who surprisingly took the lead only for it to be pegged back to 1-1 by half-time. However, AFC Lightning turned on the gas in a one-sided second half, slotting home 3 more goals without reply and arguably should have had more.
The U15's meanwhile continued their very impressive form of late, running out 4-1 winners away to mid-table Wendover Juniors. After some early Wendover pressure which AFC Lightning did well to absorb, the whites took control and in playing some lovely football deservedly went in 2 up at the break. A third goal at the start of the second half and a fourth a few minutes later put the match beyond doubt. However, Wendover never gave up and gained what proved to be a consolation goal with 15 minutes to go.
Manager’s Reports to follow
Tesco Voucher Equipment Arrives!
 19 February 2006 - AFC Lightning are delighted to announce that due to the hard work and support from our players and parents collecting over 4000 vouchers we have now received the equipment from Tesco. The equipment includes a target goal which already has proved to be a great hit for players and parents alike!
We managed to collect enough vouchers for:
A target goal
2 sets of passing arches
A set of marker cones
2 x Indoor balls
4 x Match balls (various sizes)
Festival of Football Details Now Out!
 17 February 2006 - The first details regarding the AFC Lightning Festival of Football has been announced the weekend of 24th and 25th June promises to be jam packed with great football and a fantastic fun in a the beautiful setting of The Misbourne. See this link for details.
AFC Lightning Family Quiz Night Fun!!!
13 February 2006 - Family Quiz night on Saturday 25th March at The Misbourne arrive 18:30 for 19:00 sharp start for 22:00 finish. Family fun with teams of 7,8,9 or 10 players (no more than 5 adults in the adults in any one team). 10 quick fire rounds for all the family on:-
FOOD & DRINK;
AFC Lightning;
MUSIC & ART;
THE WORLD CUP;TV
FILM & ENTERTAINMENT;
COMPLETE TRIVIA;
BACK TO SCHOOL;
GENERAL SPORT;
OUR NATURAL WORLD;
‘IN THE NEWS’
(+ CHILD ONLY PICTURE QUIZ)
++++World Cup Final Team Names by Lots++++
++++Play your Footie Mascot to double your points++++
++++Play your Evil Grelim to sabotage the opposition++++
++++Prizes+++++
*** SPECIAL ‘DEAL OR NO DEAL’ INTERVAL EVENT ***
Child tickets £1 Adults £3. Bring your own snacks and drinks ....... and a pen!!!. Tickets via Jim@AFC Lightning.com or go through you coach. PLEASE NOTE: PLACES ARE ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS AND MAY ONLY BE RESERVED WITH PAYMENT.
AFC Lightning Coaches Launch New Activity Venture
 10 February 2006 - A few of the AFC Lightning coaches have got together and are about to engage in a new form of sporting activity in the local community, known as Life Force UK. The team-based indoor sporting sessions are an hour long and are primarily but not exclusively aimed at adults and children who might otherwise sit in the arm chair and watch TV or spend hours on the Play Station. The first free family and adult only sessions take place at the sports-hall in the Sir William Ramsay School, Rose Avenue, Hazlemere, on Monday 20th February 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. (for families) and 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. (for adults only). Pre-booking is essential and places are offered on a first come first served basis. Subsequent Monday evening sessions are priced at £5 per adult and £3.50 per child. For more information, please log onto www.lifeforceuk.net
* A club donation has been received in respect of this item.
AFC Lightning Gain F.A. Charter Status - Charter Standard Club
 9 February 2006 - The Football Association in London has confirmed that AFC Lightning have qualified to become a Charter Standard Club. The award means that the Club has passed stringent standards and qualifications, all of which means AFC Lightning is one of the leading football clubs in the district – putting the welfare and interests of children first. More details to follow.
5 February Results
U13's Dick Hopkins Cup: AFC Lightning 1 5 Tring Tigers .......U15's League Division 2: Chesham Utd Youth 1 3 AFC Lightning
5 February 2006 - With the U7's and U10's having their matches cancelled, the younger age groups were represented by the U8's - who traveled to Marlow Youth. All the games were close and well contested, Marlow shaded the results but AFC Lightning played some attractive football and came home happy enough.
The U13's meanwhile came a cropper in the qtr final of the Dick Hopkins cup, against a strong Tring Tigers side. The Tigers went on to win 5-1, dashing the U13's hopes of making it into a regional final.
Finally, the U15's were away at Chesham United Youth and in a comfortable display outplayed the Chesham outfit to deservedly win 3-1.
AFC Lightning SPRING/SUMMER DIARY BRIMMING OVER !!
 31 January 2006 - In order to ensure parents, players, sponsors and friends of AFC Lightning are kept updated and informed, the AFC Lightning diary has been updated for the spring and summer to come.
The diary contains dates for the Family Quiz, the Dinner Dance, a Parents' 6 a-side, World Cup events, the AFC Lightning Tournament and much much more. Take a look but don't forget to check back regularly. (Diary Dates)
AFC Lightning U10's & U15's Impress Reading Scout
29 January 2006 - Following plaudits from Wycombe Wanderers & QPR representatives the previous week, this time it was the turn of the Reading FC Scout Peter Sewell to enjoy the hospitality of AFC Lightning at the Misbourne.
Commenting to Roger Jones manager of the under 15's, Peter was impressed by the U10's and the U15’s, with Gary and Simon of the U15’s both tagged and Gary consequently invited to Reading in July for further consideration. This latest link to professional clubs comes after Simon and Matthew impressed the QPR scout, whilst Tim Pink of Wycombe Wanderers promised closer links with AFC Lightning, after seeing the U8’s and U15’s in action.
AFC Lightning Vice Chair Sean McAndrew commented, “Our club remains an open door to professional clubs; if we have players of exceptional ability, then we will always ensure that their best interests are served.”
Sunday 29th Jan....Results....Results....Results
 Under 15's AFC Lightning 3 1 Chiltern Athletic
The Under 15’s pulled out a deserved and much overdue victory against a capable Chiltern Athletic side, to avenge the 2-3 reverse of the early part of the season. Following a tough first half when Chiltern were mostly in the ascendancy, AFC Lightning made a number of half-time changes, got on the front foot and roared into a 3-0 lead within 20 minute of the re-start. Chiltern then pressed and got one back with 10 minutes to go, but it was too little too late and AFC Lightning held on for a much needed win. (photo – U15’s alert to the danger against Chiltern Athletic.)
Under 13's Aston Clinton Colts P P AFC Lightning (frost)
The Under 13’s meanwhile had a sterile trip to a frosty Aston Clinton – the match being called off late due to an icy ground.
Under 10’s v Bourne End / Amersham Town
Finally, the Under 10’s took a while to get into gear and following a tough but victorious encounter against Bourne End, had a much easier time of it against Amersham Town and ran in a number of goals without conceding.
Annual Dinner Dance Announced
27 January 2006 - We are pleased to announce that the AFC Lightning End of Season Dinner / Dance on Saturday 29th April at Hazlemere Golf Club starting 7:30 p.m. carriages 12:30 a.m.
Tickets are £32.00. Please see Annual Dinner Dance page for details
Tickets and further details will be available shortly ... any queries contact teresa@AFC Lightning.com
Georgia’s double success!
27 January 2006 - Georgia (U8’s) now has been selected to play for County after trials as well as Chesham United Girls Team as well as at AFC Lightning. This is great news for Georgia and her parents along with Jim as her coach who whom parents acknowledged had taught her to make the most of her abilities. We are very proud and pleased for Georgia in these achievements.
U6'S, U7'S, U8'S, U15'S & GIRLS ONLY - TRAINING SWITCH...TRAINING SWITCH....
26 January 2006 -Due to the possibility of frozen ground come Saturday 28th January, arrangements are being made to move some of the outside coaching sessions to the tennis courts or sports hall. Players/Parents should liaise with their respective managers and ensure that trainers as well as boots are brought to training. As a stand-by, alternative sessions have been scheduled (below), though outdoor training will revert to standard times should the weather and underfoot conditions be deemed suitable in each case -:
 STAND-BY OPTION
U6’s: 1030-1130 sports hall.
U7’s: 1130-1230 sports hall.
U8’s: 0930-1030 sports hall.
U15’s: 1000-1115 tennis courts.
Girls only: 1115-1230 tennis courts. (or sports hall with U7s 1130-1230).
* Note: The Thursday evening indoor session for U8’s and U15’s is cancelled this week (Thursday 26th Jan).
Professional Clubs Come to AFC Lightning !
 22 Janu
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