About 22 youngsters joined with 22 children from Scone Out Of School Hours (SOOSH) to take advantage of a giant inflatable     soccer field and the skills of instructors from the NSW Football Academy.

The academy, based in Newcastle, has been visiting Scone for the past four years to promote the game of soccer in the lead up to the winter season. 

Children enjoyed a range of drills and skills including shooting goals, dribbling technique and small sided games before putting it all into practice in the inflatable field. 

Upper Hunter Shire Council sports participation officer Nicky Western said the program is offered every Easter school holidays before the soccer season starts and it is supported by the local soccer club. 

“It’s beneficial to get people thinking about joining up for the upcoming soccer and futsal competitions, which start when school returns,” she said. 

The futsal competition has a number of teams registered, however anyone interested in playing can contact Nicky on 0414 806 074.

NSW Football Academy representative Bill Pryce said he was pleased to visit Scone again and bring the blow up field. 

“It’s a great fun thing for the children and it gives great exposure to football,” he said. 

A 5-A-Side Competition was held for the older children after lunch. 

Children were also able to take part in a cycling and triathlon skills session with Western following the soccer. 

About 22 had signed up for the four day skills sessions in             preparation for the final triathlon on the Singleton Triathlon Club’s calendar this Sunday.