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    The Sun’s Footie for All campaign wins prestigious award after handing £300k grants to grassroots kids’ clubs

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    THE Sun’s amazing Footie for All campaign has won a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalism.Our campaign which ran during the last football season in partnership with Tesco handed out grants totalling £300k to hundreds of grassroots kids’ football clubs across Britain.Pop star Olly Murs has joined in on The Sun’s amazing Footie for All campaign which has now won a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalismWest Ham and England footballer Jarrod Bowen visiting Brent Cross football academy as part of The Sun’s Footie For All campaignCredit: Paul EdwardsFormer Premier League manager Harry Redknapp is also a huge advocate of the campaignCredit: Chris BalcombeWe launched our ‘Footie for All Fund’ after a Sun investigation found financial pressures triggered by the Cost of Living Crisis were forcing kids to ditch recreational football.The initiative was backed by England footballers such as Jarrod Bowen, Phil Foden, John Stones, and Harry Maguire.Former Premier League manager Harry Redknapp is also a huge advocate of the campaign.The Sun has officially won the Making a Difference Award, organised by News Media Association (NMA), for the brilliant scheme.read more in football The award highlights how journalism benefits society.NMA chief executive Owen Meredith said: “The Making a Difference shortlist this year has highlighted the exceptional dedication from UK news brands, who have worked tirelessly to inform and engage the public.“The Sun can take great pride in their achievements. “The ‘Footie For All Fund,’ serve as prime examples of how journalism can effectively spotlight critical issues, demonstrating to us all the vital role of trusted, independent journalism. Most read in Football”My congratulations to you.”Our Footie for All Fund was voted for by members of the public.Strictly Star Kai Widdrington goes back to his roots for Sun footie campaignIt came about when local football clubs told how they’d seen a membership drop as parents struggled to find the cash to pay for their kids sport fees.Some even said they were tragically forced to stop their child playing sport as they couldn’t find enough money for a bus fare.Tesco went on to provide us with our grants through its Stronger Starts programme which funds healthy activities for kids.Celebrities across the country also dropped into regular footballing sessions to see how the funds were being spent.They noted how good it was to see the difference it has made to the children who could still play.It was also supported by singer Olly Murs, 40, who visited Crown and Manor football club in Hackney, London.He said: “In 2024 the cost of living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco did this will help families to get their children playing football.”That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”Harry took part in a coaching session earlier this year as part of the schemeCredit: Chris BalcombeChelsea legend John Obi Mikel, 37, visited Wapping FC in East London last November as he hailed the scheme as very importantCredit: Paul EdwardsChelsea legend John Obi Mikel, 37, also visited Wapping FC in East London last November.He greeted 20 excited children who were bounding with enthusiasm when the beloved ex-Chelsea ace went to meet them.Obi Mikel said: “For many kids, growing up nowadays you play a sport or you’re on the street.“I chose sport, just like these kids, and it completely changed my life. I don’t know what I would have been without football.“I remember being this age like it was yesterday.“It’s great to still see kids running around and enjoying themselves. That’s the most important bit.”Founder Nahimul Islam, 25, started Wapping FC, in Mile End, East London, when he was just 17 to give kids a place to play football and stay out of trouble.Now more than 250 children are on their books – including 50 girls and 16 players with a range of disabilities.Nahimul said: “We operate in one of the most deprived areas of the country, and this incredible grant will help us give the boys high-class training and facilities without passing that cost on to mum and dad back home.“Having someone like Mikel come visit the club is inspirational to our players. It shows them just what is possible.”One grant recipient Mike Smith, 54, who runs Curzon Ashton FC in Ashton-Under-Lyne promises income is no barrier to playing with the club. They also take children with disabilities.READ MORE SUN STORIESMike used the club’s Footie for All grant to start a new girls team. He said: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”Nicola Mclean visits the Flackwell Heath girls teamCredit: Olivia WestStrictly Come Dancing star Kai Widdrington helped to put young kids through their paces at a training sessionCredit: Simon Jones More

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      The Sun’s brilliant Footie for All campaign up for award after being hailed by Harry Redknapp & Olly Murs

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      THE Sun’s brilliant Footie for All campaign has been nominated for a prestigious award honouring campaigning journalism.Our brilliant campaign which ran during the last football season in partnership with Tesco gave grants totalling £300k to hundreds of grassroots kids’ football clubs across Britain.Olly Murs hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign, which funds grassroots clubs across the countryCredit: Paul EdwardsHarry with young Milford footballer Jack Gunner after joining kids on the pitch in April this yearCredit: Chris Balcombe – Commissioned by The SunNow it is up for the ‘Making a Difference’ Award as part of Journalism Matters week – and you can VOTE NOW.England football stars including Phil Foden, John Stones and Harry McGuire backed our drive to fund kids football.We launched our ‘Footie for All Fund’ after a Sun investigation found financial pressures triggered by the Cost of Living Crisis were forcing kids to ditch recreational football.Tesco provided our Footie for All grants through its Stronger Starts programme which funds healthy activities for kids.Celebrities and stars of the game dropped in on our grant recipients for suprise training sessions and to find out how funds were being used.Harry Redknapp,77,  visited Milford-on-Sea Youth Football club in Hants, which was awarded one of our Footie for All grants.He said: “I saw The Sun’s Footie for All campaign in action and it has done so much good.”It has provided much-needed funding to grassroots kids football during a tough time. Most read in Football”Making sure all kids get the chance to play is massively important and has so many benefits.”Meanwhile, singer Olly Murs, who played semi-professional football before becoming a singer, also hailed our campaign.Olly Murs supports The Sun’s Footie For All campaignOlly, 40, visited Crown & Manor football club in Hackney.He said: “In 2024 the cost of living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco did this will help families to get their children playing football. “That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”The Making a Difference Award, organised by News Media Association, highlights how journalism benefits society.One grant recipient Mike Smith, 54, who runs Curzon Ashton FC in Ashton-Under-Lyne promises income is no barrier to playing with the club. They also take children with disabilities. Mike used the club’s Footie for All grant to start a new girls team. He said: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTo vote for our Footie for All campaign visit here and click on option two: Vote for your favourite national media campaign. You can then select The Sun’s Footie for All campaign. Voting close 5pm on Wednesday 30th October.The 77-year-old former Premier League manager visited Milford-on-Sea Youth Football Club in HantsCredit: Chris Balcombe – Commissioned by The SunOlly enjoyed a kickabout with young players from Crown and Manor football club in Hackney earlier this yearCredit: Paul Edwards More

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      I’m a former Premier League and England star – I have to pay price of Tesco meal deal for lunch at my club

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      FORMER Premier League striker Patrick Bamford has revealed that Leeds United make players PAY for their own lunch.But, in truth, Bamford and his team-mates can bag a buffet style meal for the price of Tesco meal deal. Patrick Bamford has revealed that Leeds United deduct food prices from the players wagesBamford joined the My Mates a Footballer podcast with Joe Wilkinson after making his senior debut for England in September 2021On his podcast, My Mate’s a Footballer, which Bamford co-hosts with comedian Joe Wilkinson, the Leeds ace revealed that players aren’t handed everything on a silver platter.Wilkinson asked: “How many meals do you have on a normal training day at your training centre canteen?”The once-capped England star replied: “Two every day”, before Wilkinson interjected with: “Wow two free meals a day, blimey.”But the Leeds man quickly corrected his co-host by confirming: “No, we pay for it. It gets deducted from your salary.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBefore the shocked comic repeated: “What! Are you kidding? Do you know much it is?”To which Bamford responded: “I’m gonna say £3.50 a day. But this might be miles off.”Wilkinson laughed and said: “Okay, okay. I thought you were gonna say £55-per-day. That’s like the price of school dinners isn’t it?”Bamford then quizzed him: “Do you not get the same before you perform at gigs?”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut Wilkinson said: “No, the venue just normally offers food. Do I have a better job than you in this area? “I think I’m winning in an area, which is incredible.” Before Bamford bemusingly chimed in: “To which I am suffering.”Former Premier League star Bamford was stitched up by team-mates and I ended up living in rowdy student area Patrick Bamford’s contract with Leeds expires next summerAs of August 2024, the price of a standard Tesco meal deal has risen from £3.40 to £3.60 for those with a Clubcard.In fact, Bamford’s food is cheaper than a customer without a Clubcard – who must fork out four quid.But players are NOT subjected to cold sandwiches, a packet of crisps and a Redbull.Instead, Bamford later revealed that the athletes are treated to a big bowl of pasta.He added: “On the way down we’ll get sent a Google sheets form where you put in your name and it says you have a choice of one of the pastas; Penne, Gnocchi, Gluten Free Penne or Fusilli.Who are these famous footballers?”Those are the pasta options then the sauce options, and you can mix and match if you want, are green pesto, healthy bechamel white sauce, tomato and basil sauce, olive oil and red pesto.”Then you can add as many of these as you want; peppers, chestnut mushrooms, peas, diced tomatoes, red onions, spinach, chicken, king prawns, chilli flakes, feta, cheddar and parmesan.”You can put in what you like.”The former England star signed a £70million-a-year deal to remain at Elland Road for five years in August 2021, when Leeds were in the Prem.This makes him the highest earner at the now Championship club, who are vying for promotion back to the top-flight after losing the play-off final to Southampton.Bamford is reportedly expected to listen to offers in the summer after growing frustrated under Daniel Farke.The 31-year-old has been limited to roles from the bench this term after suffering from injuries over the last year.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe striker has played for the Yorkshire giants since joining for £7m in 2018 and has made 203 appearances, scoring 69 goals in the process.Bamford has struggled for game time this season due to injuries, which have restricted him to just four appearances in this campaign.Bamford’s stats from last season More

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      Inside quirky football stadium with Tesco TROLLEY PARK stands used to shelter fans at matches

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      A TESCO trolley park is used as a stand to shelter football fans at the home of Teversal FC.Tomlin Personnel Park is located in Sutton-in-Ashfield, between Nottingham and Sheffield.Tomlin Personnel Park is the home of seventh-tier side Teversal FCCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCTwo Tesco trolley parks are situated behind one of the goalsCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCThe ground is located in between Nottingham and SheffieldCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCIt has gone viral in the past for the Tesco trolley park quirkCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCIt plays host to non-league side Teversal who were founded back in 1918 and currently compete in the seventh tier of English football.Much of the 1,000-capacity stadium is exactly how you would imagine a small football team’s ground to be.But there is one hilarious quirk that makes it unique to any other.That is the Tesco trolley park stand which fans can take shelter under during games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSunSport has had confirmation from the club that the stand – which is made up of two separate trolley parks – remains in operation.It is situated behind one of the goals, either side of the posts.The quirk went viral back in 2019, with hundreds of fans replying to a picture of it.One said: “Love this 😂😂.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTeversal have been a club since 1918Credit: Facebook/Teversal FCIt is a standard non-league ground aside from the trolley park standsCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCTeversal hosted Nottingham Forest when they celebrated 100 years since being foundedCredit: Facebook/Teversal FCWhile another added: “If the ground isn’t called Trolley Park, they’re missing a trick.”A third responded: “Is it £1 to get in? 🤣🤣🤣”Iconic stadium unrecognisable amid ‘groundbreaking’ £1.3BILLION renovation as incredible pics show host of new featuresAnd a fourth said: “Genius!”Back in 2018, Teversal celebrated 100 years since being founded by hosting Nottingham Forest – who were in the Championship at the time.Forest, who fielded an U23 side, claimed a 5-0 win. More

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      England gets ready for almighty Euro 2024 final party with fans set to spend £800MILLION on beer and pizza

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      ENGLAND legend Sir Geoff Hurst has told how proud he is of our Euros heroes — as the nation prepares for an almighty party for Sunday’s final.The last survivor of our 1966 win cannot wait for the showdown with the Spanish, and neither can our hospitality sector which is heading for an estimated £800million boost.An estimated £120million worth of booze will be sunk on Sunday alone, with pubs expected to sell 10million more pints than usualHarry Kane and his team of heroes reaching the Euro 2024 final is set to trigger an £800million boost for the nation’s hospitality sectorSir Geoff Hurst – England’s last surviving hero of the 1966 World Cup winning squad – is supporting the idea of a bank holiday if we win ‘to allow the fans to celebrate together’Credit: GettyWorld Cup hat-trick hero Sir Geoff is hoping Gareth Southgate’s men will finally end 58 years of trophyless hurt — and he is backing growing calls for a bank holiday if football does comes home.The 82-year-old said: “With England so close to achieving greatness on Sunday, I couldn’t be prouder of the team, and I know the nation feels the same.“As the last surviving member of the ’66 starting eleven, I can’t tell you how incredible it would be to see England win again.“But this moment isn’t just about the team. It’s about England fans across the nation.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Sir Geoff — a brand ambassador for Official England Beer Budweiser — is supporting the idea of a bank holiday if we win “to allow the fans to celebrate together”.As the last surviving member of the ’66 starting eleven, I can’t tell you how incredible it would be to see England win again.Sir Geoff HurstWith warm weather forecast, packed boozers around the country will be allowed to stay open extra late on Sunday night — as they were for Wednesday’s semi-final triumph.Experts reckon Ollie Watkins’ dramatic 90th-minute winner against the Netherlands has triggered a £405million spending bonanza in pubs and supermarkets.’I don’t want to jinx it’An estimated £120million worth of booze will be sunk on Sunday alone, with pubs expected to sell ten million more pints than usual.Most read in Euro 2024But many fans will likely shun Spanish lagers such as Estrella and San Miguel to show their support for the Three Lions — who will be the underdogs in Berlin.From agony to ecstasy – England fans go wild as Three Lions advance to Euro 2024 final with victory over NetherlandsEmma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “As with the semi-finals, pubs will be licensed to stay open until 1am.“That gives fans even more time to enjoy the game, support our pubs and hopefully celebrate football finally coming home.”Tesco, Britain’s biggest supermarket, reckons it will sell four million packs of beer and cider, plus 1.2 million cans and bottles of low and zero-alcohol beer.Nearly 2.5 million bottles of wine will be bought — and a similar amount of champagne will be snapped up by the more optimistic England supporters.Tesco also reckons it will shift more than one million pizzas and pies while nearly 800,000 packs of sausages and 180,000 burgers will be bought for the barbecue.Andrew Rennie, chief executive of Domino’s, said the takeaway chain expects to be making 20 to 25 pizzas a second during the game.I went to the last Euros final, I don’t want to go through that again.Sir Keir StarmerHe said: “We’ll be pulling out all the stops that no matter how busy it gets, everyone will get their piping-hot pizza on time.”Sunday’s final will be the climax to a hugely successful Euros for our hospitality sector, which analysts say has enjoyed a staggering £800million sales boost during the four-week tournament. Meanwhile, new PM Sir Keir Starmer — a fanatical Arsenal supporter who still plays in five-a-side games – has told how he is desperate for England to succeed against Spain. He dropped hints last night that he would give government backing to a bank holiday — although he doesn’t want to tempt fate.Sir Keir, who watched England’s last Euros final heartbreak when we lost to Italy on penalties, said: “We should certainly mark the occasion. I went to the last Euros final so I don’t want to jinx it. I don’t want to go through that again.” Sir Keir watched parts of the semi-final despite being at the Nato defence and security summit in Washington DC.Monster hangover warning He said: “It was fantastic. I managed to pop out from one of my sessions for just five minutes, which is when I saw Harry Kane (above) get the first goal. I missed the second one but it was brilliant.“So on we go now, great chance. I’ve always said this team were going to go all the way so I’m really, really pleased and just good luck for Sunday.”Employers should be prepared to be inundated with leave requests for staff scheduled to work on Sunday evening.The money-spinning footie shindig will also trigger monster hangovers across the nation — and a surge of staff requesting Monday off or ringing in sick.Alan Price, CEO at BrightHR, which monitors absence among more than a million employees at 50,000-plus UK companies, said: “Everyone wants to watch the final, staff included. Employers should be prepared to be inundated with leave requests for staff scheduled to work on Sunday evening.”Sickness absence rocketed 232 per cent the day after England’s Euro 2020 final. Sunday’s final in Berlin is set to be watched by a record 32 million-strong TV audience — half the nation. And bosses at England’s supermarkets, petrol stations and delivery services were coming under pressure to give staff the evening off so they can see it too.Tesco said it would close 1,800 Express stores early for the 8pm kick-off so workers could watchNearly 2.5million bottles of wine will be bought — and a similar amount of champagne will be snapped up by the more optimistic England supportersCredit: Andy Stenning/Daily MirrorSunday’s money-spinning soccer shindig will also trigger monster hangovers across the nation – and a surge of staff requesting Monday off or ringing in sickCredit: GettySunday’s final will be the climax to a hugely successful Euros for our hospitality sectorEngland supporters celebrating the Three Lions’ victory in Benidorm yesterdayCredit: ReutersSainsbury’s, Morrisons and Waitrose are considering a shutdown.Brits can look forward to enjoying a glorious weekend scorcher as temperatures hit 23C for the final.The Met Office has forecast a brighter outlook on the horizon following dismal drizzles and below-average temperatures. The Met Office’s Aidan McGivern said: “On Sunday, temperatures are closer to average. It’s warming up”.READ MORE SUN STORIESFA PRESIDENT Prince William yesterday revealed he had a “hoarse” voice after screaming at England’s last-minute winner againt the Netherlands.ᐧ The Aston Villa fan told guests in Brixton, South London that the club’s striker Ollie Watkins scored a “hell of a goal”. More

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      My son’s a Premier League champion – Tesco called security on me after unusual purchase because I was so proud of him

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      THE FATHER of a Manchester City title-winner has revealed how Tesco called security on him hours after his son’s historic first goal.Rico Lewis incredibly won a Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup treble before his 19th birthday.Rico Lewis is already a two-time Premier League champion at just 19Credit: AFPThe star’s father has recalled a hilarious incident in Tesco after his boy’s first goalCredit: Every Second MediaThe full-back scored on his first Champions League start against SevillaCredit: EPARico showed his fighting spirit under his dad’s tutelage from the age of twoCredit: .He helped the Cityzens to claim a record-breaking fourth-straight title on Sunday.And now the star is hoping to celebrate a double this weekend in the all-Manchester FA Cup final showdown with United.Full-back Lewis made his international debut for England in the 1-1 draw in North Macedonia last November.Despite all of that success, there was one moment in particular that left his father Rick Lewis incredibly proud.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAlthough it almost led to an interesting moment with a security guard.When Rico became the youngest player to score on his first Champions League start at age 17 in a 3-1 win over Sevilla last year, Rick brought every newspaper he could. He told Sun Sport: “I bought every newspaper in Bury Tesco. I spent 45 quid on papers!“A woman that worked there rang security because they thought I was up to something.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“They thought there was a protest or something going on.”Although tackling the former two-time British Muay Thai champion and his pile of newspapers might not have been the wisest move.Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament gameRick, who now owns Phoenix Muay Thai in Whitefield, Manchester, originally set up a gym in Bury back in 2001.Three years later, on the day Rico was born on 21 November 2004, he hung up his fighting gloves.Rick said: “Something went out of me instantly when he was born.“I looked at him and thought it’s too selfish getting in the ring and getting hit. I don’t know how people do it.”However, that did not stop Rico and his 16-year-old sister Sacha, who is in City’s academy, following in their father’s footsteps.Rico started training aged just two and had his first fight at THREE with a boy twice his age and size – something the 5ft 7in ace would go on to do on the pitch. A workout with Rick LewisSUNSPORT’S Isabelle Barker was put through her paces by former British Muay Thai champion Rick Lewis, the dad of Manchester City star Rico. Here is her gruelling workout…

      We started off using what looked like medieval torture contraption to stretch the legs to help with flexibility when kicking. 

      Rick started off practising roundhouse kicks with me as kicking is an integral part of Muay Thai and scores more than punches in a fight. 

      We then moved on to setting up the kicks up with punches like jab, cross and a hook as well as fakes. 

      Rick even managed to get me to do a Question Mark Kick, which is a deceptive technique used to fool the opponent into thinking you’re attacking low but really your intended target is high. 
      We finished off with some combinations involving punches, low kicks, switch kicks and head kicks. 

      Rico, who joined City’s academy aged eight and holds a whopping 30-fight unbeaten streak, still trains Muay Thai with his dad.He does it most during pre season, hitting pads and taking part in fitness drills like the bleep test.And it is easy to see the fighter within him when he brushes off being clattered to the floor by players double his stature and height.Rick added: “He is only 19, people don’t remember that. They criticise him but to me he is still a baby.“He gets kicked to the floor but jumps straight up again and wins the ball back.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I think Muay Thai made him prepared and ready to be coachable to Pep. He is so disciplined.“It’s only ever been him in the ring when he’s fought and that has helped him so much.”Man City’s five key moments this seasonA look at the five key moments in Man City’s title winning campaign…

      Luton 1 – 2 Man City: City bounce back from a run of four games without a win to kick-start their unbeaten run.
      Newcastle 2 – 3 Man City: Kevin De Bruyne returns from injury to come off the bench and inspire a late turnaround against the Magpies.
      Man City 3 – 1 Man Utd: Phil Foden puts on a masterclass as City lay down a marker on their title ambitions and breeze past their local rivals in the process.
      Man City 0 – 0 Arsenal: A goalless draw that, although disappointing, meant City were still keeping pace with the teams around them and could maintain their spot in the title race. A loss could have put Arsenal out of sight of the Cityzens.
      Man City 4 – 1 Aston Villa: Following consecutive draws against title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, City bounce back with a thumping of Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa to keep the pressure on the Gunners. More

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      Arsenal fans mock new Gunners kit for resembling Tesco’s Value range

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      ARSENAL have been mocked online after their new home kit appeared to resemble Tesco’s cut-price Value range.The title-hunters, whose league hopes will be decided today, launched next season’s kit last week.Arsenal have been mocked online for their new home kitCredit: TwitterFans are saying the kit looks like the Tesco Value logoCredit: TwitterBut Gunners fans claimed the Adidas home kit’s blue-striped sleeves reminded them of the discount product line.Posting online, @RipleyAWFC said: “I really can’t look at the new Arsenal kit with the blue stripes and not think of Tesco Value.”But Mattie Powell backed the club, joking: “Love the new shirt.“Purchased it then read comment about sleeves looking like Tesco Value. Love it even more now!”READ MORE ON ARSENALOthers criticised the club for the £85 price tag, claiming it was anything but good value.Tesco Value was a range of everyday products sold by the retailer from 1993 until 2012.It was rebranded as Everyday Value.Its blue-and-white striped design earned the products a cult following.Most read in FootballThe supermarket also released socks and an oversized blue “oodie” jumper inspired by the Value line.The new Arsenal kit features a new change to the club’s crest.Arsenal’s 2024/24 home kit with new badge released as fans say ‘we have unprecedented amounts of sauce’ The Gunners will need every little help from West Ham, who face title rivals Man City, as they bid to win the Premier League for the first time in 20 years this afternoon. More

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      Celebrity Big Brother star Nicola McLean backs our Footie For All Campaign to give clubs £1k funding boost

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      NICOLA McLean praises The Sun for ensuring every child can play football as we relaunch our Footie For All funding. In partnership with Tesco’s Stronger Starts campaign, we have another 150 grants to hand out to youth grass root football clubs across the UK. The reality star is delighted to see more girls playing football thanks to our grantCredit: Olivia WestNicola’s son Rocky, 13, had played for the boys devision of the clubCredit: Olivia WestWAG and Celebrity Big Brother star Nicola said: “Playing sport is something every child deserves to have access to, no matter what life is like at home. “Seeing the work of this grant from The Sun and Tesco in action is amazing, as all the girls here clearly love playing football. This cash makes sure they can keep getting training despite money being tight for everyone.  “I’m excited that women’s football is getting so much attention, and who knows, maybe one of the players here will represent England one day.”Her backing follows the support of Jarrod Bowen, Eric Dier, Raheem Sterling, and Gary Lineker. READ MORE ON FOOTIE FOR ALLLast year, we launched our Footie For All campaign to shine a light on how financial struggles were forcing kids to give up football.Figures showed that 94 per cent of grassroots clubs were concerned about the impact soaring costs were having on their membership, according to charity Sported.Our last round of funding saw £150,000 given to remarkable clubs, and we’ve been blown away by how much they do to help their community while ensuring everyone keeps playing the beautiful game. From starting up new teams, providing free places for low-income families children to replacing old and out of date equipment, the cash has been put to good use.Most read in FootballSo today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic 150 Footie For All grants.The cash can be used in any way that encourages more children to take up the sport or improves access to the game.How to apply
      WE want to hear about YOUR club and the huge difference you make for kids in your community.
      If you are a not-for-profit grassroots football club in England, Wales or Scotland, working with youngsters under the age of 18, you could be eligible for one of our 150 grants.
      Funds can be used for anything that gets kids into the sport.
      Your club might need help with pitch fees or want to sponsor places for kids from low-income families.

      Entries close at midnight, April 30.

      Nicola has spent years ferrying her boys to grassroots training and knows how important it isCredit: Olivia WestIan Wright confirms plans for when season ends on Sky Sports after Carragher jokes ‘You’re on a Bosman this summer’Perhaps you are a local team that wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on. Grants can also be used to help with transport or general running costs.Nicola, 42, has had first-hand experience of grassroots as both her boys have played for local clubs since they were four years old. She went to visit the girls division of Flackwell Heath Minors team to see how they are putting their grant to use getting more girls involved. During her visit to the Buckinghamshire club, she said: “I’ve loved seeing how this club has embraced the girls and made them feel as welcome and as good as the boys teams. They’re all amazing.”Footie favourites back Sun campaignPREM stars have queued up to praise our grassroots drive….
      PHIL FODEN
      Reddish Vulcans, Manchester City, England
      “Grass roots football is where it began for all of us. It brings happiness for so many people and it’s so important nothing gets in the way of everyone having that opportunity.”
      HARRY MAGUIRE
      Brunsmeer Athletic, Barnsley, Sheffield United, Hull City, Leicester City, Manchester United, England 
       “I SPENT my childhood with a ball at my feet. Playing with a team gives kids an outlet and a chance to learn discipline and to make friends with people they might not have met.”
      RAHEEM STERLING
      Alpha & Omega FC, QPR, Liverpool, Man City, Chelsea & England 
       “MY mentor got me into football to correct my behaviour. I found something I wanted to put my energy into. I fell in love with it – and I made friends for life.”
      JARROD BOWEN
      Leominster Miners, Hereford Utd, Hull City, West Ham & England
       “WE can’t let kids see their dream die simply because Mum or Dad can’t afford to pay for the subs, kit and travel. Football is for everyone.”
      JOHN STONES
      Penistone Church FC, Barnsley, Everton, Man City & England
      “PLAYING grassroots football as a kid with my friends for my local team was the first step into football for me, and I never looked back.
      “It played such an important part of my childhood and I’ll always be so grateful for the opportunity it provided for me and so many other children.
      “Grassroots football often provides a happy and safe environment for children to play, meet friends and learn new skills. If it wasn’t for that start I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to learn important life skills on and off the pitch while having fun with my mates.
      “It can give children something to look forward to, even when things may be difficult, and make such a positive impact for both parents and kids.”
      ERIC DIER
      “FOOTBALL is a lifeline for many. It encourages teamwork, discipline, friendship, improved health and wellbeing and a sense of community. I know kids will benefit from the game and all that comes with it.”

      She’s used to ferrying her boys to training sessions, as both Rocky, 13, and Striker, 18, have played football at a grassroots level.  Nicola said: “My youngest son Rocky played for Flackwell Heath. Grassroots football is majorly important. Both of my boys have done it, and it’s given them a sense of community, and it’s been a great way to make friends. “Kids also learn how to win and how to lose. They need to be taught both of those.“It’s a great thing to do and as many people who can be involved in grassroots football should be. It really shouldn’t come down to finances as to if a kid can play or not. All I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing football.Declan Breen, club chairman“It needs to be open to as many people as possible, and that is what The Sun’s grant ensures.”Nicola, who is married to former West Ham player Tom Williams, was told by coaches that the girls had improved in confidence and skills since playing with their own gender. Rocky now plays for Slough, and Striker is honing his skills at Beaconsfield. Thanks to our grant, the club has been able to rent more pitch spaces and boy more goals to see as many girls as possible playing with them.Flackwell Heath Minors chairman Declan Breen said: “The grant means we’re not restricted by money when it comes to provisions. “We’ve been able to rent more pitches and get goals, allowing more girls to play with us. READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s also helped cover the costs of one of our teams, too.“It’s been fantastic, so all I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing football.”Declan Breen told Nicola how much of a difference the grant is making to the clubCredit: Olivia WestShe reguarly watches her son Striker play matches with his local clubShe even took a turn at showing off her fancy footwork with the girlsCredit: Olivia West More

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      Olly Murs hails The Sun’s £150k grants to grassroots football, saying ‘now no kids gets left behind’

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      OLLY MURS has hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign – as we help grassroots clubs net a share of a new £150,000 cashpot.In partnership with Tesco’s Stronger Starts initiative, we have a further 150 grants of £1,000 each to hand out to youth clubs across the UK.Olly Murs has hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign, which funds grassroots clubs across the countryCredit: Paul EdwardsPopstar Murs, who played semi-professionally before hitting the big time, represented England at Soccer Aid 2012 in aid of Unicef at Old TraffordCredit: Getty – ContributorThe bumper fund matches our first round of grants dished out last year.Visiting the Crown & Manor club in Hackney, East London — one of the recipients of our initial awards — Olly, 39, said: “In 2024 the cost of ­living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their ­parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco are doing this will help families to get their children playing football.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”We launched our Footie For All campaign last year to shine a light on how financial struggles were forcing children to give up football.A safe spaceFigures from charity Sported showed 94 per cent of grassroots clubs were worried about the impact soaring costs were having on membership.Our first batch of grants saw £150,000 given out thanks to support from Tesco Stronger Starts, which funds healthy food and activities for kids across the UK.Most read in FootballWe were inundated with applications for help, along with stories of local teams making a huge difference in their communities.So we wanted to offer clubs more assistance.Erling Haaland reveals secret talent after childhood vid goes viralFrom starting up new teams and providing free places for kids of low-income families, to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the cash has gone to good use.So today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic new Footie For All grants.They can be used in any way that encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are a local team that wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on.Grants can also be used to help with transport or general running costs.Before shooting to fame on The X Factor in 2009, Olly played semi-professionally for Witham Town in Essex until 2008, when injury ended his career.It’s great to see the impact this grant is having on the kidsOlly MursThe singer — soon to become a dad for the first time with bodybuilder wife Amelia Tank — was delighted to see kids benefit from our campaign.The chart-topper and Soccer Aid regular said: “It’s an honour to be at Crown & Manor and to see where the money is going that The Sun and Tesco have put together.“I’m sure playing here helps them with communication as they interact across different age groups and it brings them together. There are ­different ages, cultures, ­languages, and they all just love ­playing football.“It doesn’t matter who you are off the pitch. It all comes down to who is going to win that ball first.“It’s great to see the impact this grant is having on the kids at Crown & Manor.”The club’s youngsters come mainly from low income families.Organisers aim to provide a safe space and positive role models for every child.For just £1, kids have access to sport, homework help and a chance to socialise with their peers.Olly started his playing career with Valley Green, near his home in Witton, Essex, where his dad coached.Life changing opportunity He says it gave him confidence and taught him how to chat with anyone.“For me, at 13 years of age, playing grassroots football was where my social network began,” he said.“It’s where I got all my friends. It was my escapism from all my other worries, like school or experiences as a teenager. It gave me the confidence to chat with people and I had team-mates I could lean on if I ever got in any trouble.“When I get back to Essex, I still see the people I used to play with. That friendship has never been forgotten. Grassroots was a big part of my life and I think every kid should get involved in something team related. I know my life would have been different without it.”During his visit to the 100-year-old Crown & Manor club, Olly had a kickaround with the 13, 14 and 15-year-olds, who had no problem trying to steal the ball from him.Olly enjoyed a kickabout with young players from Crown and Manor football club in HackneyCredit: Paul EdwardsReality star and mum-of-two Nicola McLean, 42, visited Flackwell Heath Minors girls’ team to see how the money we awarded is being put to useCredit: Olivia WestAs well as posing for selfies, he even took a turn in goal.But thanks to his squad’s defenders, he didn’t have to make any saves.Former West Ham Academy player and team coach Jason Mason, 39, was impressed with Olly’s skills on the pitch.And he is glad The Sun has been able to provide each of Crown & Manor’s teams with a new strip.“The £1,000 grant means our four teams have a new kit,” he said.“Some of them were getting very old. It’s helped us a lot with making that possible.”Having Olly down to play some games also really boosted the boys.‘Sense of community’Jason said: “It’s great for them to see that Olly is just a normal person like them. They’ve really enjoyed the ­session, and how many people can say they’ve played football with Olly Murs?”Mum Tyler, whose son Artie, 12, plays football at Crown & Manor, said of her lad: “He’s been coming to the club since he was about six.“It’s amazing what they do for the kids. Everyone is so lovely and it’s a really nice place for him to be. It’s built his confidence 100 per cent. He started secondary school and knowing the older kids from football made it so much easier.“I’d never let my son out on the streets, so if he wasn’t here he’d be in his bedroom on a PlayStation or something. Every youth worker, regardless of their age, helps our children in different ways.”Meanwhile, reality star and mum-of-two Nicola McLean, 42, visited Flackwell Heath Minors girls’ team to see how the money we awarded is being put to use.On her trip to the Bucks club, she said: “I’ve loved seeing how this club has embraced the girls and made them feel as welcome as the boys’ teams. They’re all amazing.”Nicola is used to ferrying her boys — Rocky, 18, and 13-year-old Striker — to training sessions as both played football at this level.The star, married to former West Ham player Tom Williams, 43, said: “My eldest son Rocky played for Flackwell Heath. Grassroots football is majorly important. Both my boys have done it. It’s given them a sense of ­community and it’s been a great way to make friends.“Kids also learn how to win and lose. They need to be taught both of those. It’s a great thing and as many people as possible should be involved in grassroots football.All I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing ­footballDeclan Breen “It shouldn’t come down to finances whether a kid can play or not. That is what The Sun’s grant ensures.”Nicola was told by coaches at Flackwell Heath Minors that the girls had improved in confidence and skills since playing with their own gender.Thanks to our Footie For All grant, the club has been able to rent and buy more of the things it needs to open up the game to as many girls as possible.Club chairman Declan Breen said: “The grant means we’re not restricted by money when it comes to provisions.“We’ve been able to rent more pitches and get goals, allowing more girls to play with us.“It’s also helped cover the costs of one of our teams.“It’s been fantastic, so all I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing ­football.”Olly, soon to become a father with wife Amelia Tank, was delighted to see kids benefit from The Sun’s football campaignCredit: GettyCurzon Ashton FC Community FoundationDESPITE there being a high number of low-income families locally, this club is ensuring that money is not a barrier to kids joining its ranks.Ashton-under-Lyme is a deprived part of Greater Manchester, but Curzon Ashton FC charges just £3 a session and has players aged six to 80, some with disabilities.Curzon Ashton FC has many projects including weekly after-school girls’ football sessionsFoundation manager Mike Smith, 54, from Gateshead, says: “Everything we do is virtually free or for a small subscription. Football is a powerful tool for engaging with the community and keeping people socialised, fit and active.” Their many projects include weekly after-school girls’ football sessions, with 21 youngsters participating so far. Mike says: “It gives parents the chance to let the children do something free.”Our £1,000 grant has helped pay for this, plus new equipment.Mike adds: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”Northwich Victoria Juniors FCTHIS busy club has a mighty 22 teams, with players starting as young as six, and ensures everyone has the opportunity to access football.“That’s our ethos,” says chairman Robert Walsh, 50, who has worked at the Cheshire club for a decade, starting as a coach. Football is an amazing way for young kids to make friends and gives confidence as well as being a great way of keeping fit and active.”Northwich Victoria Juniors FC has 22 teams to joinThe club used its £1,000 Sun grant to buy new equipment, including goals, corner flags and “respect barriers” to ensure players are kept safe.Like other clubs, Northwich has seen a huge rise in the numbers of girls wanting to play, and the grant is helping to launch two new female teams.Robert adds: “We have enough demand to create even more teams than that, but our problem is finding volunteers to coach as we’re not paid.”Cheadle And Gatley JFCFORMER club member Holly Deering, 18, recently broke into the Manchester United ladies’ first team, alongside England stars Ella Toone and Mary Earps.So there is much to be proud of for this Stockport side, marking its 50th birthday, which has 750 members and 15 girls’ teams.Cheadle And Gatley JFC has a whopping 750 membersIt has put a lot of cash, including its £1,000 grant, into a Girls’ Development Centre, and seen huge results.For the past seven years the club has been producing one or two new girls’ teams a year.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut demand has rocketed since the Lionesses’ success and there are plans for four or five new teams for girls aged seven to ten.Club treasurer Richard Hubbard, 52, says almost half a dozen members have turned pro in the last couple of years, adding: “The club is open-access sports for all. If there are parents who are financially challenged, we offer discounted membership.”How to apply
      WE want to hear about YOUR club and the huge difference you make for kids in your community.
      If you are a not-for-profit grassroots football club in England, Wales or Scotland, working with youngsters under the age of 18, you could be eligible for one of our 150 grants.
      Funds can be used for anything that gets kids into the sport.
      Your club might need help with pitch fees or want to sponsor places for kids from low-income families.

      To apply and for full terms and conditions, see tescostronger starts.org.uk/footiefund

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