Alan Shearer is hoping that Wallsend Boys Club's fantastic new all-weather pitch can help produce more Premier League greats in the years to come.
But the Newcastle United and England legend insists that the new facility will be about much more than just top-flight careers.
Shearer was on hand with Michael Carrick to officially opening the pitch - which also has a covered spectator area for families to watch their kids - and met members of the community to share the exciting new experience with them.
Speaking to the Chronicle about his joy at cutting the ribbon to mark the facility open, Shearer, who played for Wallsend in his youth before carving out a glittering career, said: "I'm absolutely delighted with it.
"It's unbelievable.
"Wallsend chirman Steve Dale said it when he opened the pitch up.
"It's not just about football, it's about life in the area and kids having something to do and enjoy.
"They'll have something to look forward to, that's boys and girls.
"It's the first time I've seen it, there's floodlights and a 3g surface, there aren't many better.
"I wish there had been something around like this when I was playing because I lost count of the number of times training or matches were called off due to bad weather.
"No more of that now though.
"It is great for everybody, the kids and the adults.
"It's just fantastic."
The pitch has been made possible thanks to investment from Wallsend Boys Club and the grant of £564,799 towards the cost of it from the Premier League, The FA and the Government through the Football Foundation.
It is anticipated that over the next five years the new pitch will support the recruitment of more than 300 new players across 21 teams at the club and will lead to a growth in provision for female and disability football, with more than 100 girls expected to be playing affiliated football there by 2024.
Shearer added: "It's been needed for a while and I am delighted it's eventually got here with the Football Foundation, the Premier League and the FA and of course Wallsend Boys Club making it possible.
"They eventually got there and it was hard work.
"But everybody is pleased with what it is now.
"They will have many happy hours and minutes for years to come."
Shearer spent time chatting with children at the new venue and when asked if he fancied a game himself, United's all-time leading scorer quipped: "If my knees and ankles were up to it I would.
"But I wouldn't be able to walk for a week.
"I might pass on it!"
Meanwhile, the Boys Club's chairman Dale said: "It comes after a combination of a lot of hard work.
"It is fantastic.
"The harsh reality is without the £250,000 that the club (Wallsend) we wouldn't be standing on it today.
"I especially want to thank the fund raisers, trustees and committee members and sponsors that we've got.
"This is our legacy and it will be left behind long after some of us are here.
"It is now to make sure it is sustainable for all the youngsters in North Tyneside."
