About Balkerne FC
Our Mission and Values
Balkerne FC aims to nurture young talent by providing equal play time and prioritising their development. Our club ethos is clear: we focus on developing players, not replacing them, ensuring that every child has a chance to thrive.
Get Involved
Become a part of our vibrant community where every player is valued. Join us in our commitment to youth football development and fair play.
Barry Sim
Chairman
For Barry the 2025-26 season will be his 26th season as a youth football coach/manager. He is passionate about football being a game for all abilities and disabilities to enjoy. That ‘winning’ is more than just about results and that helping children from all backgrounds find a safe space to have fun and build up friendships is more important than scorelines.
His management/chairman style is very much about being a welcoming friendly face that makes the young superstars feel safe and unjudged. In 1997, living in Coggeshall, a family friend was looking to start a team for his grandson and so the Coggeshall Town u12’s Comets were formed and Barrys passion for coaching was ignited. At the end of that season he started an u9’s team, taking them up to the end of u14’s. at that point his son wanted to play football so he started an u8’s team at Brooklands FC, taking that team up to the end of u16’s.
A bereavement then sees a 3 year break from coaching with a return to Brooklands for the 2016-17 season, starting a team for another son and step son at u10’s. On his return to the club he also took over the role of chairman which he has seen through to near the end of the 24-25 season.
In his 26 seasons he has created or helped create 2 teams at Coggeshall Town and 12 teams plus the Bambinos at Brooklands FC. Across these years he has achieved 3 league runners up and 1 league winner but sees the Sportsmanship Trophy from way back in his second season as one of the highlights.
Whilst extremely proud of the work he did at his previous club, assisted by numerous committee members, he felt it was time to get back to basics. To get back to making sure the game remained enjoyable for all children for as many seasons as they wished and not to have to feel the heartbreak of being replaced by players a bit further ahead in their journey. The only way to assure that was to set up a new club with rules set in stone to protect all young superstars. As a father of 3 children and 7 step-children he understands how they are all different, develop at their own pace and nothing can kill enjoyment as quick as being judged against their peers on making the decision to start again he quickly enlisted Adam as secretary and coach as he knew they both shared the same ethos and passion for coaching and developing players.
Adam Hewes
Club Secretary
Adam is a dedicated football coach holding a UEFA C Licence, with experience in coaching since 2019. Passionate about player development, he focuses on creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Adam is committed to upholding The FA’s best practices, ensuring that all players, regardless of ability or background, have the opportunity to grow both on and off the pitch. His coaching philosophy emphasises skill development, teamwork, and fostering a love for the game in a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
Louise Rice
CWO
Louise is the club's designated Child Welfare Officer. They are responsible for implementing and upholding the FA's safeguarding policies and best practices, ensuring the well-being of all our young members. They are committed to providing a secure and supportive environment for our players.
Melissa Leaver
Treasurer
Mel is the Club Treasurer, responsible for the club's financial management and reporting. They work closely with the committee to ensure the club's financial stability and support its objectives.
Our teams 2025/26
Below are the teams we have currently, we are always looking for Managers/Coaches who match our club values, please reach out to us to join to create an amazing club.
Ballers
Ages 4-6
Manager: Barry Sim
We are the Balkerne Ballers, and our aim is simple: to have fun and learn to play football in Colchester! With Barry Sim guiding us, we'll focus on games, activities, and developing our skills in a friendly and encouraging environment. We're here to play, learn, and make new friends!
U9s
Mixed
Manager: Phoebe Lewis
Sponsor: TBC
Welcome to the Balkerne Under 9s Mixed team! We're a group of young players in Colchester just starting our football adventure. Our focus is on having lots of fun, learning the basics of the game, and making new friends on the pitch. Come and join the excitement!
U10's
Girls
Manager: TBC
Sponsor: TBC
Meet the Balkerne Under 10s Girls! A team buzzing with energy and a passion for football. We're all about developing our skills, playing with heart, and growing together as players and friends. Watch out for our exciting journey this season!
U10's
Mixed
Manager: Barry Sim
Sponsor: TBC
Meet the Balkerne Under 11s Mixed team! We're a group of enthusiastic players who love to have fun playing football together. We believe in teamwork, supporting each other, and enjoying every moment on the pitch, regardless of background or ability. Come and join the fun!
U13's
Girls
Manager: Simon Gray
Sponsor: TBC
Meet the Balkerne Under 13s Girls! A team buzzing with energy and a passion for football. We're all about developing our skills, playing with heart, and growing together as players and friends. Watch out for our exciting journey this season!
U14s
Mixed
Manager: Adam Hewes
Coach: Brad Thompson
Sponsor: Iceni Consulting
Our U14s team is built on a foundation of inclusivity, development, and a love for the game. Led by UEFA C Licence coach Adam Hewes and ably assisted by Brad Thompson, the team focuses on developing technical skills, tactical awareness, and teamwork in a positive and supportive environment. Adam and Brad are committed to upholding The FA’s best practices, ensuring that every player has the opportunity to grow both on and off the pitch. Whether competing or training, the emphasis is always on improvement, respect, and enjoying football to the fullest.
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