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Elgin Sports Community Trust: Transforming local sports facilities

How one father's vision led to improved sports facilities for all ages in Elgin.

Nuove strutture sportive della Elgin Sports Community Trust
Scopri come l'Elgin Sports Community Trust sta trasformando le strutture sportive locali per tutti.

The birth of a community initiative

Ten years ago, Dave Allen, a dedicated father and RAF veteran, found himself frustrated with the state of local football pitches in Elgin. The fields, littered with dog mess and hazardous items, were deemed unsuitable and unsafe for his three sons and their friends.

This dissatisfaction ignited a passion within him to create change, leading to the establishment of the Elgin Sports Community Trust.

A vision turned reality

In 2021, after years of hard work and fundraising, the Trust opened three new pitches at The Gleaner Arena.

This significant milestone marked the beginning of a new era for sports in Elgin. The Trust’s commitment to enhancing sports facilities did not stop there; a new £400,000 pavilion was recently inaugurated, further solidifying their dedication to the community.

Meeting community needs

Since its inception, the Elgin Sports Community Trust has focused on addressing the pressing need for quality sports facilities. With over 100,000 individual uses recorded since the opening of the new pitches, it is evident that the community was eager for such resources. The facility has become a hub for various activities, including walking football and hosting local teams like Moray Girls Football Club and Elgin City Women.

Dave Allen emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for all ages and abilities. The Trust has expanded its offerings to include coaching sessions for children not involved in recognized teams, ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate in sports.

Creating inclusive environments

One of the Trust’s key initiatives is to foster inclusivity within the community. By hiring Robbie Hope as the director of operations, the Trust has been able to create specialized sessions for girls and older adults, as well as open sessions for individuals who may struggle to find a team. This approach has allowed people of all ages and abilities to engage in football, promoting a sense of belonging and community.

Expanding horizons

The recent addition of the pavilion has opened new doors for the Trust, allowing for extended hours of operation and the potential to offer alternative educational programs for young people. Dave envisions using sports as a vehicle for providing recognized qualifications in coaching and refereeing, particularly for those who may not thrive in traditional academic settings.

Looking to the future

As the Elgin Sports Community Trust continues to grow, plans are underway to enhance the facilities further. The introduction of picnic benches and food vans during the summer months aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for families and players alike. Additionally, the Trust is exploring the possibility of developing an indoor football facility, ensuring that sports can be enjoyed year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Dave Allen’s journey from frustrated parent to community leader exemplifies the power of grassroots initiatives in transforming local sports. The Elgin Sports Community Trust stands as a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared vision for a better future.


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