Jericho takes the trophies

When Kevin and Claire Jones of Cranham Street, arrived in Jericho they found no team for their son Ashley to play in. Undeterred, they formed one. Originally called Jericho Boys, the team started out in the under-11s ‘C’ division of the Oxford Mail Boys’ League. In the second season, 2001/02, as the under-12s they won 22 games and drew the other to finish as champions. The team is now West Oxford FC, since they also offer places to players outside Jericho. Leading scorer in the league last year was Naveed Akram of Cranham Street (front, third from right). Jack Hayhurst of Walton Well Road (back, fourth player from right), has been selected for the league’s under-13s representative side. By December 2003, promoted to the ‘B’ division of the under-13s, they were third in the league. Kevin (on the right) coaches, while Claire does the administration. They promote a family atmosphere, involving parents and offering encouragement to the players. Walton Street Co-op has also helped with sponsorship. Now Kevin has also formed a mixed under-10s team, most of whose players are at St. Barnabas School.