Charlton Athletic’s U9s enjoyed a visit to the club museum recently, where they learned about the rich history of the football club and the journey that has brought the Addicks to where they are today.
The youngsters, who follow in the footsteps of fellow academy teams in attending the Museum, were able to learn the history and culture of the club while also posing for photographs with various pieces of Charlton memorabilia.
Museum trustee Ben Hayes spoke about the importance of the museum and reflected on how much the Under-9s enjoyed their visit.
"Our aim as a museum is to preserve and present the history of the football club.
"Visits from the various teams that have come the museum gives us an opportunity to explain to the players and parents some key milestones in the Addicks history. We go into why we're called the Addicks and the importance of The Valley and the 5th of December, all pitched at a level suitable for eight-year olds."
The Museum also provided the children and their families with unique key rings celebrating the club's return to The Valley and a four-page booklet on the history of the club.
"They all left with a Back to The Valley key ring and a potted history of the club as homework.
"The boys were full of questions and loved having their photos taken with the FA Cup. They were amazed at the 1950s boots and shin pads which are nothing like what they are used to," he said.
"Nathan Jones visited the museum in the summer and took a few dozen of the same booklets to give to the first-team squad."
See a full gallery from the U9's visit to the museum below...
The museum is open to supporters every Friday (excluding Boxing Day) and ahead of Saturday 3.00pm kick-offs. Entry is free. The museum entrance is in Harvey Gardens near the Alan Curbishley Stand turnstiles.
Charlton fans can support the academy by signing up to the Valley Gold scheme. Valley Gold enables fans to support the club’s academy in unearthing the talents of tomorrow, as well as giving them the chance to win cash prizes.
Click here for more information on how you can become a Valley Gold member.
