Football mad youngsters visit St George’s Park for Premier League Kicks Cup
Two groups of football mad youngsters from Milton Keynes had the opportunity to play at St George’s Park National Football Centre, thanks to the work of MK Dons Community Trust.
The Dons were represented at the Premier League Kicks Cup, with teams fielded in the U16s mixed and girls tournaments.
Funded by the Premier League Foundation, Premier League Kicks is a national initiative where boys and girls aged can access free football training sessions, plus mentoring, personal development, education and volunteering opportunities.
It’s celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. And to mark the occasion, PUMA – the Premier League’s official ball supplier – gifted each player at the tournament a pair of football boots.
The Dons girls’ squad was recognised for their performances by receiving Fair Play trophies presented by the Premier League, EFL and Barclays Women's Super League match officials.
After topping their group, the girls’ team were defeated by Newcastle United in the quarter-finals while the mixed team finished 13th out of 24 teams.
Off the pitch, there were opportunities for participants to engage in a range of activities designed to support creativity, wellbeing and personal development.
These included a DJ workshop, the opportunity to engage with the Youth Voice Board, and a chance to see the iconic Premier League Trophy up close.
Coach Dylan Pfeifer said: “We are incredibly proud of all the young people who represented MK Dons Community Trust at the Premier League Kicks Cup National Finals.
“It was great for the girls’ team to reach the quarter-finals but to also receive the Fair Play Award, which reflects the values we work hard to promote.
"Premier League Kicks is about much more than football. It provides young people across Milton Keynes with a safe and supportive environment where they can develop new skills, build friendships and grow in confidence.
“A huge thank you to the Premier League and Puma for investing in these young people and creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
Sessions in Milton Keynes are delivered on Wednesday (Tattenhoe Sports Pavilion, 5pm-6pm) and Friday (Lord Grey Academy, 6.30pm-8pm) evenings and are open to players of all backgrounds and abilities aged 11 upwards.
As part of its Premier League Kicks delivery, the Trust has partnered with Thames Valley Police so participants can build positive relationships with local officers who help them feel safe and supported.
For further information and to sign-up to a free Premier League Kicks session in Milton Keynes, email information@mkdonscommunitytrust.com or call 01908 62288.
Community centres interested in learning more about hosting Premier League Kicks partnership with MK Dons Community Trust can contact the same addresses.
