JUNIOR footballers in Yate will soon be showing off their new kit this season thanks to a partnership with the town’s newest cinema.

As part of a new sponsorship deal, the Under 9s squad of Yate United will proudly display the logo of Cineworld Yate on brand new kit donated by the organisation.

The deal with Cineworld, which opened back in April, includes 20 football kits and 25 waterproof jackets, as well as free tickets which will be given out by coaches as special awards, such as top scorer or man of the match.

“To get the sponsorship means a lot,” said Ross Michael, one of the team’s coaches.

“We have always had use of the club’s existing kit, which is great, but to give the kids the opportunity for something new is quite special for them.

“You hear about big sponsorship deals with football clubs all the time and for that to happen to the kids at Yate, it really gives them a confidence boost.

“This season we will be moving into the Hanham minor league, so we will be going in looking the part!”

Fellow coach Michael Palmer added: “It would be fantastic to maintain the relationship with Cineworld as I know it is a place the players really enjoy going with their families and the occasional free ticket will keep bringing them back.

“We also really want to support Cineworld by having their name on the team’s kit as they have given so much support in us.

“We have even started looking into working together with Cineworld to fundraise for events like Children in Need.”

Steve Plank, Cineworld Yate general manager, said: “We are delighted to sponsor Yate United Football Club. Cineworld is committed to supporting local communities and this is an excellent opportunity to recognise some of the great talent within Yate.

“We wish the team the best of luck this season.”

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