Participants from LFC Foundation’s Premier League Kicks sessions across Merseyside came together at Anfield Sports and Community Centre for an evening of football and educational workshops.
Children from Primary and Secondary Kicks groups, youngsters from the Inclusion and Girls Development groups and the U18s Development squad took part in sessions to provide guests with an overview of the entire LFC Foundation Kicks programme.
LFC Women’s defender Leighanne Robe joined the sessions and took part in a series of Q&As with the young people - sharing the story of her career so far and offering tips and advice for improving their skills and technique.
PL Kicks’ partners Young Addaction, Merseyside Police, Roadpeace, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Real Men Don’t Carry Knives were also on hand to offer information and advice on issues such as drug and alcohol awareness, road safety, antisocial behavior and knife crime.
Matt Parish, LFC Foundation director, said: “Our Premier League Kicks programme has been running throughout Merseyside for the past 10 years, and in that time we have engaged with and positively impacted thousands of local youngsters.
“The Kicks sessions provide a safe space for children and young people to spend time, make friends and get involved in some physical activity while also learning how to make positive choices in their lives.
“We’re delighted to be celebrating the relaunch of Kicks and the Premier League’s commitment to fund the programme for another three years.”
Following the relaunch, LFC Foundation’s PL Kicks programme will now include a Disability and Inclusion strand – formerly Respect 4 All – and increased girls football sessions. A total of 18 sessions take place in nine of the most high-need areas across the Liverpool City Region every week.
Kicks is the Premier League’s flagship community programme and sees 90 Premier League, EFL and National League clubs work closely with young people and authorities in their local area to deliver free sports sessions and workshops - providing opportunities and support for young people to achieve their full potential and create stronger, safer and more inclusive communities.
For more information on LFC Foundation’s PL Kicks sessions, click here.