Local Football Club Ignites Youth Spirit with Free Multi-Sport Sessions

A major football club in Swindon, Wiltshire, is making waves in the community by offering free sessions across various sports, providing young people with much-needed positive outlets. This initiative, known as Premier League (PL) Kicks, has been a staple for 19 years, focusing on football but now branching out into netball, basketball, tennis, tag rugby, and badminton.

Empowering Youth and Encouraging Participation

Organisers report that the diversification of sports has led to a significant increase in participation, particularly among young women and girls. Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of such schemes in steering youth away from anti-social behavior (ASB) and aiding them in becoming more responsible citizens.

Currently, up to 160 young people, aged 10-18, are benefiting from these free services at Foundation Park. The program coordinator, Andy Tye, takes pride in tailoring activities to match the interests of the children, creating an environment that encourages them to engage and make the most of their sessions. "We've tried to accommodate every sport we can across the week," Tye remarks. "It just keeps going from strength to strength."

Positive Feedback from Participants

The program seems to resonate well with its participants. Friends Amelia and Evie, both 10 years old, have shared their excitement about the diverse sports available. They enjoy the sessions not only for the sake of staying active but also for the fun they bring—using energy in a constructive manner. Noah, aged 11, labeled the multi-sport sessions as "fun" and stated it is a fantastic opportunity to improve his skills.

Rebuilding Community Bonds

PCC Wilkinson also noted the broader societal impact of these activities, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has left many young people feeling isolated and vulnerable. "Getting them involved in team sports like this is a brilliant way of, in many ways, reintroducing them into society," he said. The provision is not just about sports; it is about fostering a respectful, responsible, and compassionate environment for young people.

This initiative by PL Kicks, supported by the PCC and the Premier League, is more than just an organized sports program; it stands as a beacon of community resilience and connection in today's challenging landscape.