BIFC Coach Interviews – James Branford
9th December 2022It’s week three of our ‘Coach Interview Series’ and this week, it’s the turn of Inter Barton FC manager James Branford.
During Inter’s first season (2021/22) in the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League 5-a-side Championship division, they were crowed Championships in an impeccable season which culminated in champagne spray in Doncaster. A day to remember for everyone luckily enough to be involved.
James is well supported in his role by volunteer Lauryn Taylor Greenwood, who provides integral match day support and assistance. Captain Matt commented: “Lauryn is so important for our team, she makes sure everyone is happy and is always looking out for us players.”
This season (2022/23), Inter have made an exceptional start to their league campaign, and after four games undefeated, they sit in second place. Let’s see how James got on in his chat with Club Media Officer Amy Blinkhorn.
Amy was keen to find out how James’ players have adapted to playing in the premier division.
“The players seem to be at home in the higher league and are striving in the more competitive games. There have been games already this season where these lads have played far beyond the level that I expected at this stage in the campaign! They have taken the step up in their stride and make me smile every game!”
Amy asked: “You’ve added Brandon and Callum this season, how important are these two to the squad?”
“Two great additions to the squad, they have settled into the team very well. Callum has an amazing eye for goal, and his ability on the ball is fantastic! Brandon is a defender that every coach wishes for! He can run for days and not break a sweat, he covers every inch of the pitch and puts in 110% every game!”
Amy further added: “You’ve been without Wills who we know is a big loss, how has Matt adapted to being captain?”
“Wills was a loss coming into the start of the season that we didn’t see coming, he is missed by the team and will be like a new player when he returns. Adding lots of energy and passion! Matt has took on the Capitan’s armband brilliantly, he has a great relationship with all of the lads, and leads by example on and off the pitch. We were lucky to have a player like Matt who could step into the role so easily.”
“What are you goals this season for Inter, James?”
“My only goal this season is for the lads to enjoy their football, I believe this first season is about seeing how we fair up against our opponents and in what areas we need to improve. It goes without saying that I would love us to win the league and so far this season we have shown we could be in with a good chance if we keep playing well and improving, but this isn’t my main objective for our first season in the top league!”
“James, you’ve added Sam to your back room staff, how has he settled in with the club?”
“I have known Sam for years and it is great to have him beside me coaching at this amazing club. As soon as it came to my attention that we needed another coach, Sam was at the top of the list and I made sure I enlisted him right away. Sam has settled in brilliantly, he has a great connection with the players. His knowledge of the game is amazing and will be a great help going forward this season! He will be a great addition to the BIFC Family!”
It’s absolutely amazing to hear James talk so proudly about his team. The hard work of James and Lauryn, and now Sam has given Inter the very best platform to achieve their dreams.
James will lead his team out just once more in 2022, as they play in Doncaster on Sunday 18th December, World Cup Final Day!
Good luck Inter Barton FC, you have made BIFC so very proud!
