Kickz Scores High with Derwent Youngsters

An innovative football programme for young people has been hailed a success since it started in February this year, with more than 150 individuals taking part.

Based at The Steve Bloomer Pitch at The Racecourse in Derby, Kickz is part of a national scheme organised by The Football Foundation, Derby County Football Club, Derby City Council and other partners. It offers 12 to 18 year olds the chance to take part in positive activities three nights a week, 48 weeks a year. The idea is to create safer, stronger, more respectful communities through the development of young people's potential.

Reducing crime and anti social behaviour in the Derwent area and breaking down barriers between the police and youngsters are other key aims. Young people wanting to take part in Kickz need to live in Derwent.

Charlie Naylor, aged 14 hasn’t missed a session so far. He said: “I think it’s a really good project, it encourages people to get involved and I’ve really enjoyed it.”

The outdoor sporting activities take place on Mondays and Fridays from 6pm to 9pm at The Steve Bloomer Pitch. Young people will get the chance to influence activities on Wednesday evenings, running from 5pm to 7pm which could include boxing, cricket and Djing.

For further information, please contact Paul Whitworth, Kickz Project Manager, Derby County in the Community on 07879 450671 or email paul.whitworth@derwentcommunity.org

Kickz nation-wide tournament for One Game, One Community Week

Kickz recently celebrated a seven-a-side national football tournament to mark One Game, One Community Week. Hosted at Leesbrook Community Sport College's third generation artificial turf pitch, the event - which aims to kick racism out of football - was attended by seven Kickz teams from across the country.

Newcastle United was heralded overall winner with Derby County coming a respectable fourth. As part of the day all the clubs, which also included Liverpool and Everton (combined), Sunderland, Stoke, Aston Villa and Plymouth enjoyed a walk around Derby County’s Pride Park pitch directly before their match with Plymouth.

Paul Whitworth, Kickz Project Manager was impressed by the excellent behaviour of the players and said: “It’s fantastic to bring together all England's Kickz projects for one day of friendly football. The players were a credit to their teams and we are planning a similar national tournament for players aged 16 to 18 at the end of the season.”