YORK City boss Terry Dolan was openly supporting a worthy Football Association scheme today.

The City chief was to wear a 'Goal' badge throughout the game at Wrexham to show his backing for a project which champions child protection in football.

The aim of the scheme, which is being supported by clubs up and down the country, is to allow youngsters to enjoy the game without being bullied or harassed by parents or coaches on the sidelines or indeed abused in any other kind of way.

Child protection is high on the FA's agenda and Dolan said it was a priority at Bootham Crescent too and something he was proud to support.

"It is very important that youngsters are allowed to play and enjoy the game in the right way without abuse of any kind, whether it be bullying, physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect," he said.

"The goal is to have someone at every club in the country aware of child protection and best practice, whether it's a Premiership Academy or a Sunday morning park side.

"There are plenty of times when winning football matches seems to matter more than anything. But for a ten-year old in a Sunday morning game or a teenager in a school match, that shouldn't be the case.

"We've got to make the game fun for people and do as much as we can, and we're highlighting that."

He added: "Like those who turn out to help run kids' sides every weekend, I care about the future of football, and that means putting children first."

Updated: 10:07 Saturday, March 22, 2003