The New Croft Foundation is proud to celebrate its first anniversary, marking 12 months of significant impact on the local community through inclusive and engaging sports and community programmes.
Since its launch in September 2023, the Foundation has made remarkable strides in promoting community spirit, physical well-being, and providing opportunities for all, regardless of age, gender, ability, or background.
Over the past year, The New Croft Foundation has reached an impressive 223 children through its weekly football in the community programmes, including 39 children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Our adult programs have also seen enthusiastic participation, with over 40 members joining our weekly walking football sessions, underscoring the Foundation’s dedication to offering opportunities for all age groups.
In addition to our regular programmes, we have also provided a fun, structured and safe environment for over 780 children throughout the school holidays with our football holiday camps and ‘Play & Play’ initiatives.
The Foundation has also made strides in community engagement, organising 18 events since April, including visits to care homes, sporting memory sessions, and sports days.
We’ve been fortunate to receive valuable support from volunteers and work experience students, including Harry Scarfe from Churchill SEND School, who contributed to football development efforts. Additionally, Ed Newell’s contributions to photographing our events have helped capture the spirit of our community in action.
Our football academy continues to thrive, with 20 students completing the first cohort and 40 planned for the 2024/25 season. We’re also excited to launch our new international programme, which will welcome an additional 30 students next year. Under the guidance of our experienced UEFA-qualified coaches, including ex-professionals Kevin Horlock and Yvonne Tracy, our students receive top-tier training, preparing them for future success in the sport.
The New Croft Foundation is proud to have created several new job roles this year, expanding our team to include medical staff, coaches, administrative personnel, and social media experts. We are committed to providing career development opportunities within our growing organisation, as we continue to enhance our programmes.
Head of Foundation, Lois Balfour believes The Foundation has reached “greater heights than ever imagined in the first year” she said: “I believe our biggest impact has been bringing together the community through sports. We have seen friendships made from 3-year-olds to 80. We see players exit into their first ever football teams and we see participants together outside of TNCF.”
“We really do provide an opportunity for all, no matter age, gender, ability, there is something for you to do within our foundation and yet we are still growing!”
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of The New Croft Foundation’s journey this year. Your support, enthusiasm, and participation have been instrumental in making our first year such a resounding success. We look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you in the years to come.
Your support is what keeps us going!
Your support helps us maintain a safe and engaging environment for our community programmes and events. If you would like to contribute to The New Croft Foundation, please click the button below to donate.
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