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To celebrate the Premier League’s More Than A Game campaign this season, we’re exploring the profound impact of Premier League-funded programmes in our community—reaffirming that football is more than just a game.

Nottingham Forest Community Trust is proud to highlight Ezra’s inspiring journey as part of its delivery of the Premier League Kicks programme.

Ezra’s story showcases the remarkable transformation that can happen when young people are given the opportunity to thrive in a supportive, community-focused environment.

Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund, uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential in some of the most high-need areas in England and Wales.

Launched in season 2006/07, Nottingham Forest Community Trust is one of 93 professional football club community organisations across England and Wales delivering Premier League Kicks.

The programme supports young people in regular, positive and fun activity while helping to create stronger, safer, more inclusive communities.

Nottingham Forest Community Trust began its Premier League Kicks delivery in 2006 and during the 2023/24 season, engaged 1330 young people through at 10 venues.

During his engagement with the programme, Community Trust coaches have observed first hand a significant improvement in his confidence, which has been greatly bolstered through his participation in Premier League Kicks sessions.

These sessions provide a platform for young people to connect with others from diverse backgrounds, explore various sports, and build the skills needed to navigate a variety of social settings.

Reflecting on his experience, Ezra shared: “Premier League Kicks has introduced me to a lot of new people, helped me play football with others, and made me feel more confident in socialising with new people.”

Oscar, one of the Premier League Kicks coaches, remarked on Ezra’s transformation: “It’s been incredible to see how much Ezra has grown in confidence over the past two years.

“He’s gone from being shy and reserved to becoming a key member of the group who actively supports and encourages others.”

Ezra has been a regular participant in our Premier League Kicks sessions for the past two years. When he first joined, he was notably reserved and took some time to feel comfortable within the group.

However, with consistent involvement and encouragement from the Community Trust’s coaching team, Ezra has grown into a confident and enthusiastic participant of the programme.

Through his steady commitment to the sessions, Ezra has developed meaningful friendships with fellow participants, which have played a pivotal role in enhancing his communication skills.

Today, he is much better at expressing himself, whether he is interacting with others or engaging with the coaching staff.

In recognition of his dedication and the progress he has achieved, Ezra was selected to be a mascot for the Nottingham Forest vs. Liverpool match.

This special moment celebrated not only his consistent participation but also his positive influence within the programme.

Ezra’s positive attitude and encouraging nature have become hallmarks of his involvement in Premier League Kicks. He is known for his supportive and welcoming demeanour, often going out of his way to ensure new participants feel included and valued. His guidance and friendship have developed an inclusive and friendly atmosphere, making a lasting impact on everyone around him.