Kelly MorganWiltshire Political Reporter, Swindon
Organizers say the football club, which now offers free lessons in a range of sports, is helping to give young people a “positive outlet”.
Premier League (PL) Kicks has been offering free football sessions in Swindon, Wiltshire for six years and this year began training coaches in netball, basketball, tennis, rugby and badminton.
It said increased opportunities have led to more young women and girls joining the program.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Wilkinson said such schemes were crucial in deterring young people from engaging in antisocial behavior (ASB) and helping them become “better citizens”.
Up to 160 young people aged 10 to 18 take part in free PL Kicks events at Foundation Park.
Coordinator Andy Tye said the sessions were structured around what children were interested in so they “felt in control” of their activities and “had a reason to keep coming back”.
“We've been trying to cover every sport we can throughout the week, and it's getting stronger,” he said.
“We believe that the free meals and our amazing team of coaches really give these young kids a positive outlet,” he added.
Mr Tai said he was “really proud” to see an increase in the number of girls signing up and communicating with their coaches, which he said was “really important” for the organisation.
Friends Amelia and Evie, 10, said they joined because of the variety of sports on offer.
They said they like to stay healthy and “expend all their energy, but in a good way.”
Noah, 11, described the new multi-sport session as “fun” and a great opportunity to “practice and get better at sports.”
PL Kicks is funded by the PCC and the Premier League.
PCC Wilkinson said organized group activities offered young people a “respectful, responsible and compassionate” outlet.
“This generation has been through Covid and it has isolated them and made them more vulnerable to unhealthy and dangerous pressures,” he said.
“Getting them involved in team sports is in many ways a brilliant way of reintroducing them into society.
“Sport is a great opportunity to entertain young people,” Wilkinson added.
