Barton Rovers FC

Barton Rovers FC is a prominent football club in Reading, known for its dedication to the development of youth soccer and commitment to fair play and good sportsmanship. With over 400 registered players, the club holds high standards for attitude and behaviour both on and off the pitch.

The club is fortunate to have the support of several esteemed institutions, including Little Heath School, Denefield School, and Tilehurst Parish Council. These partnerships provide Barton Rovers FC with excellent playing facilities for mini soccer and 11-a-side formats.

For children aged 4 to 6 years, the club offers a Development Centre in collaboration with uSports. Held on Wednesday evenings, the Centre focuses on coaching soccer skills in a safe and friendly environment. As an FA Accredited Club, Barton Rovers FC invites children in this age group to join for fun and inclusive coaching, with two free taster sessions available upon registration.

The club also places strong emphasis on girls' football, offering a safe and supportive environment for girls to learn, play, and thrive. Experienced coaches help players develop their skills, build confidence, and embrace the spirit of sportsmanship. Training sessions are held on Wednesday evenings, aiming to provide girls aged 6 and up with the opportunity to learn new skills, have fun, and make new friends. Barton Rovers FC now runs teams in the Berkshire County Girls Football League.

Barton Rovers FC takes pride in being an FA England Football Accredited Club, which replaces the FA Charter Standard. This accreditation emphasises the club's commitment to meeting high standards in league and club operations. In 2004, the club became one of the first in the Reading area to achieve the FA Charter Standard, and in May 2013, was awarded the coveted FA Community Club Charter Standard.

The club's home base is located at Turnham's Farm on Little Heath Road in Tilehurst, Reading. Playing fields are exclusively available to Barton Rovers FC members, with the committee's request to use the facility respectfully.

Barton Rovers FC hosts an annual football tournament at Little Heath School, providing players with the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete against other teams. The club expresses gratitude to all attending teams for their participation in this event.

Despite the temporary suspension of the Special Needs group activities due to Covid-19 restrictions and facility and staffing issues, Barton Rovers FC is actively exploring options to recommence these activities as soon as possible.

As a club committed to the welfare of children and young people involved in football activities, Barton Rovers FC takes safeguarding very seriously. The club has implemented policies to prioritise the welfare of children and young people, in line with Football Association guidelines. It is crucial for everyone involved with the club to read and understand these policies, and a dedicated Club Welfare Officer is available for reporting any concerns.

Overall, Barton Rovers FC is a thriving football club that encourages youth development, fosters a safe and inclusive environment, and is dedicated to upholding the values of fair play and good sportsmanship on and off the pitch.