We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Inverleith for the start of our 2022 season. Existing members will join us from the 28th August, with new members being welcomed along to our open day on 4th September.

Ahead of the season start we thought a reminder of our logistics would be helpful.

Locations
A reminder of locations for training.
Lions Primary 1 – 2: Astro pitches SMC, Queensferry Road 9.15 – 10.15am
Lions Primary 3 – 7: Stewart’s Melville Playing Fields, Ferry Road, 1 - 2pm
Lionesses Primary 1 – 7 (girls only): Stewart’s Melville Playing Fields, Ferry Road, Arboretum side 1 – 2pm
Please note: girls can choose between training with their mixed year group or with the new mini Lionesses group.

Spectating
With covid restrictions almost a distant memory now spectators are encouraged it is essential that each child should have a responsible adult in attendance on the side lines to ensure toilet breaks, injuries, etc, can be tended to without taking coaches ‘off the pitch’.

Car parking
SMC Astros – there is parking available at school however it will be busy. Please adhere to the speed limit, park sensibly and ensure players are accompanied from the car park to the astros.
Inverleith Playing Fields - car parking at the playing fields is very limited given the ongoing building works and the presence of portacabins. As such, there will be NO CAR ACCESS for parents at the main gate for parking or drop off and we would kindly ask that you park in the surrounding streets (Arboretum Place / East Fettes Avenue are closest), leaving the minimal car parking spaces for coaches carrying equipment. These streets will be busy on weekends, so please leave plenty time to park and consider walking, cycling or scooting where possible. We will do our best to ensure that the Arboretum and East Fettes gates are open.

Subs
Subs for this season will remain at £80 and we expect to ask for these in the middle of September for existing members. For our new members, take your time to try out the Lions and Lionesses, and we will ask that subs are paid ahead of the October break. If the subs present a problem for any family, then please contact membership@stewmellions.com in complete confidence.

Playing kit
We are delighted to continue to partner with First XV at Haymarket for our playing kit needs this season.

First XV have reduced the cost of playing kit this season by up to 30%, shorts now £9.99, tops £24.99 and socks £5.99. Items will continue to be available in store and online and for one day only at our Open Day on 4th September from 1 – 2pm at Inverleith. We will have a selection of playing tops, shorts and socks for purchase via card payment however should you wish to order for collection on the 4th please email membership@stewmellions.com with your requirements including; your child’s full name and year group ahead of the 1st September (this includes P2’s, orders will be delivered to training for payment)

We are aware of some sizing issues with the youngest and oldest year groups and are working to resolve this however in the meantime anything comfortable goes.

Hoodies
Hoodies have become ever popular with our players and again this year we will offer the opportunity to purchase new hoodies should you wish to.

For all new members to Lions and Lionesses you will be given the opportunity to order a free hoodie post your first subs payment in October.

For all existing members you can order your new Lions Hoodie via pitchero link below priced at, kids sizes £14.50, adult sizes £18.50. Should you wish to order a new hoodie please do so by 7th September.
Shop (stewmellions.com)

Festivals
We have a full season plan of matches and festivals and can’t wait to see the players back out on the field doing what they love. However these festivals and round robins can only happen with the support of volunteers. If you feel like you might be able to help occasionally this season please do let us know by emailing
membership@stewmellions.com allowing us to build a bank of volunteers to draw on.
Should you have any further questions please contact your year groups admin or membership@stewmellions.com.

Watch out for our new Chairman's welcome message on our Facebook page this week @stewmellions ?

Here’s to a brilliant season.
Lions Committee and Coaches