An Outstanding-rated Runcorn nursery is giving back to the community by sponsoring a local youth sports team - which happens to be coached by one of its very own team members.
Dunky’s Day Nursery in Weston Point, Runcorn, has proudly stepped up to sponsor Beechwood Tornado, a talented Year 8 netball team. The squad is coached by nursery practitioner Eve Guy, beautifully connecting the early years setting with grassroots local sport.
Eve, 20, attended a Dunky's nursery as a child while her mother, Jill Guy, worked as a manager. Years later, after finishing high school, she returned to the nursery as a practitioner, caring for children in the same setting where she once played and learned.
A Full Circle Moment
"It feels really special to be back," said Eve. "Some of the staff who looked after me as a child are still here today. Joanna, who is now the nursery manager, cared for me when I was little, so it's lovely to come back as an adult and work alongside people who have been such a big part of my life."
Alongside her role at Dunky's, Eve is studying Sport and Physical Education at Liverpool Hope University and hopes to become a PE teacher. During university holidays, she works full-time at the Runcorn nursery while continuing her commitment to netball.
From Player to Coach
Having started playing netball in Year 7, Eve began coaching just two years later and has since become a Level 2 England Netball qualified coach. She now coaches players of all ages, from young children through to adults, while also serving as an umpire. When the opportunity arose to seek sponsorship for Beechwood Tornado, Eve approached the Dunky's management team, who were delighted to support the club.
"Dunky's Day Nurseries has been a big part of my life," said Eve. "I've seen the company grow from strength to strength, and I hope my netball girls will continue to grow and develop in the same way. When I asked if Dunky's would sponsor the team, they were honoured to have their logo represented on the back of our dresses."
Beechwood Netball Club Growth
Beechwood Netball Club has grown significantly since it was founded more than 20 years ago with just five members. Today, the club boasts 16 junior teams, eight adult teams and a thriving walking netball programme. The club has also received nominations for several regional awards, including North West Club of the Year and Community Officials.
Eve's Beechwood Tornado squad competes in the Warrington Sunday League and trains throughout the year. She says the team's commitment and enthusiasm make coaching a rewarding experience.
Building Confidence and Life Skills
"The girls work incredibly hard and continue to improve every week," she said. "We're seeing stronger performances, greater confidence and fantastic teamwork. They always arrive at training with smiles on their faces and are a pleasure to coach."
She added: "Netball is about much more than learning the game. It's about building confidence, friendships and important life skills. I'm so proud of everything these girls have achieved, and we're delighted to be representing Dunky's on and off the court."
The sponsorship marks the first time Dunky's has supported the team, helping provide new dresses proudly displaying the nursery group's logo. With strong community roots and a shared commitment to helping young people thrive, both on the court and in the classroom, the partnership is set to be a winning combination for everyone involved.
Dunky’s has nurseries in Culcheth, Farnworth, Great Sankey, Hapsford, Runcorn, Warrington and Gulliver’s World, and all have gained either ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ in Ofsted inspections.
