Up Foundation ‘Up Mondays’ Football Sessions (13 years and under)
It’s wonderful to read how, through the funding support of the Oakland Foundation, children and young people are benefitting from the amazing programmes delivered by organisations such as the Up Foundation.
‘Louis’ is 12 years old and lives with his mother, stepfather and a younger sibling. His interests are football and riding his bike. His stepdad has been a father figure to him as his biological father left his mum when he was only a baby. He describes Louis as a ‘lively kid’ who ‘needs to be able to burn off energy before he can settle to things or relax’. During the winter months Louis struggles to get outdoors as his garden is not big enough for him to play football, or ride his bike, in. His parents are worried about his safety going to the park alone, especially in the dark or when it is muddy. This means Louis tends to get bored and frustrated at home and at school, due to spending a lot of time indoors.
Louis’ mum heard about the Up Foundation sessions through another parent at school and his stepdad agreed to take Louis to try it. Despite not knowing anyone Louis was put at ease by the coaches on his first session. His stepdad describes realising that there was a huge variety in the skill level of the kids in the group and how he was impressed that the coaches managed to adapt the drills to suit everyone. When it came to the mini matches, the coaches picked teams which were well balanced so that everyone could participate fairly. Louis loved the session and was keen to attend again. Since then he has barely missed a session, and he begs his stepdad not to take on jobs that involve him working away or late on a Monday night. He has also got his parents to commit to taking him to the local park a couple of times a week to practice his skills as he really wants to improve and impress his coaches.
As well as the physical benefits of Louis’ increased activity, he is happier and calmer following a football session or park visit. This helps his behaviour at home and his learning at school. His stepdad is pleased that Louis has found the sessions and wishes they were on through the school holidays too. He can’t believe the quality of the coaching and the inclusive atmosphere where positive behaviours and attitudes are rewarded.
He can also see how much Louis’ skills and confidence have grown because of them Louis plans to keep working hard on his skills and fitness and says his goal is to get in the football team of his new secondary school. Louis’ stepdad recognises the all-round benefits of the sessions and hopes they continue long-term. He has even offered to help with fundraising for the Up Foundation around his working hours.