David Longwell gives his thoughts on Town's Academy having all age groups return to training.
Following a u-turn by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport - Town's full academy operation will now be able to return to work.
Despite Salop being classed as an elite sports organisation, the Shrews Category three academy was ordered to close the doors to younger age groups due to the national four-week lockdown.
David Longwell is pleased the decision has been reversed and is looking forward to getting back to work with Town's young footballers.
On the decision:
“I think at first it didn’t make a lot of sense. Initially, it was category one and two clubs that could continue. We have got such a good setup regarding our COVID-19 protocols and keeping everyone at the Club safe, so at first, we were very disappointed with the decision.
“We had a lot of support when we were challenging the Minister of Sport. Our local MP and the EFL all challenged the initial decision. The parents were really good and a lot of them emailed their MP, so all that put together helped our case. We’re glad it’s a positive outcome and for us and to overturn it in just a week is really positive for us as a club and other clubs around the country.
On the reaction of the players and parents:
“Everyone is absolutely delighted with the outcome. They’ll be no spectators at training, parents will have to sit in their cars but the bigger picture is that the lads are getting back onto the pitches and playing football again.
“The lads are buzzing, to not have anything one week and then suddenly we’re going to be back training and playing, is great. I think football has a massive effect on people mentally and physically, and for these lads, especially at their age, it’s a great turn of events.”
