Sheffield Wednesday will host the 15-year anniversary of the Premier League kicks festival in a day of football and education.
This Saturday on 19 February young people aged 14-16 years old will be given the opportunity to represent their own football club and win prizes in a series of games and activities.
Premier League kicks in action
Paul Hebda, Sheffield Wednesday’s Community Programme officer, said: “Hosting the PL Kicks 15-Year Anniversary is a very proud moment for not only myself, but Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme.
“It allows us to showcase the work that we are doing to partners and organisations across Sheffield, which in turn allows us to showcase and publicise the work we are doing to more families and young people, to increase overall engagement.”
The day will consist of a football competition and a football activity and will see 10 football clubs from the North East and Yorkshire region take part.
A member from ‘Always an Alternative’ will run a workshop which each young person will take part in. This gives children an opportunity to learn about topics such as community cohesion, diversity and racism across different communities and cultures, and allows young people to voice their views and opinions.
Mr Hebda said: “Over the years, we have managed to build positive relationships with different groups and partners, such as the South Yorkshire Police, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield International Venue and local MP’s.
“These have all been fantastic in supporting the event and confirming attendance to come down, to help out, speak to young people, and support the advertisement of the event.”
Premier League kicks gives young people a day of football and education
Premier League kicks started in 2006 and, due to funding from 90 Premier League, EFL and National League clubs, sports and education sessions have been delivered in over 700 venues in local communities.
The programme aims to increase playing, coaching and officiating opportunities in football and enhance physical and mental wellbeing.
Mr Hebda said: “It has been a little stressful organising things for the event but other football clubs that are involved have been great in supporting with areas of the event, taking some stress off myself.”