Kicks in the Park returns across Wolverhampton

2 min read

21st Jul 2023

Premier League Kicks in the Park is back for the summer as Wolves Foundation offer free football-based activities for young people in three different venues across the city.

Participants between the ages of eight and 18 will be welcome at the weekly sessions, starting next week (25th July) and taking place during the school holidays from 1pm to 3pm at Heath Town Park (Tuesdays), West Park (Wednesdays) and Bantock Park (Thursdays).

This is in addition to all the regular Premier League Kicks sessions which will continue through the holidays, offering young people the chance to meet up and enjoy football in a safe and secure environment.

“We are delighted to once again be offering Kicks in the Park sessions during the summer holidays,” says Louis Guttridge, inclusion & cohesion officer with Wolves Foundation.

“It is an extension of our normal PL Kicks programme, offering participants of all ages and abilities the chance to come and enjoy football-based activities during the summer, completely free of charge.

“It is open to people of all ages and abilities, with different age groups catered for on different pitches.

“We are also trying to add other elements to some of the sessions this year, with other opportunities for the participants to enjoy.”

These opportunities, taking place alongside the football, are set to include visits from different emergency services, an inflatable boxing ring, and the chance to have a try at wrestling.

Also, later in August, some of the young people will enjoy the opportunity to take part in a ‘gun run’, organised by staff from Venning Barracks at MOD Donnington in Shropshire.

A gun run is a physical-based activity where competitors take on what is effectively an obstacle course whilst carrying different equipment.

The workshop will take place at the Foundation Arena at Aldersley, with a view to participants later getting the chance to visit the barracks at Donnington and also take part in a competition against other football clubs.

These opportunities are two of the many provided by Premier League Kicks, a long-running project which operates across communities, engaging young people via a variety of sports, coaching, music and educational and personal development sessions.

Participants can turn up at the Kicks in the Park sessions at the stated days and times but for more information, email louisguttridge@wolves.co.uk

"A football club is so important to the local community, especially when you’re a one-club city like we are, and the Foundation’s initiatives and activities are second to none."

Gary O'Neil | Wolves Head Coach

"Without Wolves Foundation I wouldn't be here today, that's for certain."

John Martin | Head 4 Health participant

"As a lifelong Wolves fan, to represent the Club and Foundation is something I'll cherish forever."

Daz James | Wolves Disability FC

"It is amazing to be out there meeting people and having some fun. It is really important for Wolves to have this connection with the fans and to see the happiness in their faces."

Toti Gomes | Wolves Defender

"Savannah absolutely loves the group. The staff are committed to making every single session fun and welcoming."

Natasha | Healthy Goals parent

"It’s special because it's my club and I’m so proud to be from Wolves as well. I can see the projects and all the work Wolves Foundation are doing and I know it makes such an impact, so to even be a little part of that and to help out where I can – it's so exciting."

Amber Sandhu | Broadcaster and Foundation Ambassador

"It’s huge for the school, I can’t speak highly enough of Wolves Foundation and the opportunities that they give us."

Mr Robinson | Woodsetton School

“I think all football clubs should be the beating heart of their communities and Wolves, through the Foundation, manages to do that."

Johnny Phillips | Sky Sports Presenter and Foundation Ambassador

"We get loads of different opportunities with a Premier League club. I feel really privileged to be a part of it."

Mustafa | Football & Education College Academy student

"Frank has Alzheimer’s Disease and when he was first diagnosed we felt lost and alone. Attending Molineux Memories is a lifeline for both of us; it is run by friendly, committed staff who ensure that everyone is included and enjoys themselves."

Frank and Alison | Molineux Memories

"To come here and be hands on with the kids is unreal. Working with Wolves and the Foundation is a blessing and I'm honoured. It feels surreal sometimes but it's the best feeling."

S-X | Music Producer and Foundation Ambassador

"It's good to give back what you got. Football and the Wolves Foundation help me, so I like to help the community."

Taye | Premier League Kicks

"Wolves has definitely helped my personal development, but now also helps me to develop people I work with. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities Wolves Foundation have given me."

Carl Ackasovs | Wolves Foundation