“[The coaches] make me feel really welcome and like I’m part of the family. The thing I love the most about it is just playing football.”
This week, we have been showcasing and celebrating a number of provisions as part of the Premier League’s #PLSupports campaign.
We are proud to announce that Alfie, one of our regular Premier League Kicks participants, has been named as ‘ONE OF OUR OWN’, for the exceptional commitment and contribution he has made to himself and the community.
When he first moved to the area Alfie was out of education, due to moving around a lot and experiencing difficulties at home. When he came to Kicks, he quickly found a sense of belonging, made new friends, and received support from the coaches, who who helped him deal with his personal struggles and get through his GCSEs.
Over time, the sessions gave him the tools and the confidence to progress further with his college education. From lacking motivation and qualifications, we are thrilled to say that Alfie is now going on to complete his Level 2 Sport qualification, and is also enrolled on the BFCitC Shadow Youth Team, with the end goal of becoming a coach.
I have grown so much since attending Kicks and going to college. I have matured so much as a person, I am no longer in bad crowds and I have such a better way of life now. The workshops that Kicks have are really helpful and get me to think about my decisions and influences. If I didn’t attend the session and meet the coaches who have supported me, I don’t think I would be in as much of a good place as I am now.
Alfie
Kicks coach, Lewis Hickie said:
“Alfie has been attending Premier League Kicks sessions with Burnley FC in the Community now for over a year. When Alfie started at Kicks, he was sceptical to join in due to not knowing anyone in the area, due to recently moving. He is a role model for his peers and is an absolute pleasure to have at sessions. Alfie has attended a wide range of educational workshops as part of Kicks which he is always engaged with and is also eager to learn. Alfie has represented Burnley FC in the Community at several tournaments and events. We have watched Alfie grow into the person he is today, and we look forward to supporting Alfie through the remainder of his college course as well as supporting him to reach his goal of becoming a coach.”
The profound effect these types of programmes have, goes further than just the participant:
“Kicks has impacted Alfie by keeping keeps him off streets, out of trouble and out of a bad crowds. I really like that I know that he is safe and being looked after. I like seeing that he is meeting new people and being more confident and sociable. Coming to the sessions has really encouraged Alfie to mature and set an example for others. He is no longer being easily led in to trouble and is more focused on his future.”
John, Alfie’s Dad
We would like to pass on our huge congratulations to Alfie for his fantastic progression, and we can’t wait to see what the future looks like. Premier League Kicks is more than sport, it’s a sense of belonging.
To find out more visit our Premier League Kicks page, or alternatively, email kicks@burnleyfc.com
