As a young carer, your childhood often takes a backseat, but through coaching sessions and his love of football, Ben continues to support his Mum while also pursuing his passion for coaching.
Read StoryPartners and Friends
The Shrewsbury Town FC Foundation offers a variety of programmes in primary schools across Shropshire, inspiring children to learn and stay active. Among these initiatives is the “Premier League Primary Stars” programme, which combines physical education with classroom learning, using sport as a powerful teaching tool. It was through this programme that we first met Naomi and Layla.
Before participating in Primary Stars sessions, Naomi and Layla lacked the confidence to join playground football games, often feeling that it wasn’t something they could be a part of. However, Premier League Primary Stars changed that by showing them they could achieve anything they set their minds to, helping them build confidence and resilience both in and out of sport.
A key focus of the sessions was on the values championed by both the foundation and the Premier League, such as teamwork, communication, and self-belief. Embracing these values allowed Naomi and Layla not only to develop a passion for football but also to foster a strong friendship.
Since completing the sessions, Naomi and Layla have become avid footballers, actively participating in school games and joining sessions and matches organised by the foundation. Their parents are amazed at the growth they’ve witnessed in their daughters thanks to the programme.
“Your friends can’t believe you’re playing for Shrewsbury Town; they think it’s amazing! They truly inspire younger girls to gain the confidence they’ve developed through these sessions and to play at that level.”
Perhaps the greatest achievement of all is the deep bond Naomi and Layla have formed, proving that with perseverance, friendship, and support, anything is possible!
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