More than 700 young people, representing 65 professional football clubs, got together at Warwick University in the Premier League Kicks Cup on Monday 8 April.
LCFC Community Trust began delivering Premier League Kicks in October 2014 and delivers in community settings across the city, and more recently the county.
The programme promotes participation in areas of high need, provides opportunities for young people to develop skills and progress into positive pathways.
The tournament had representation from Leicestershire Police to England Women’s legend, Alex Scott, witnessing an excellently-organised and competitive event unfold in Warwick.
Zahra Zahid, one of many of our participants, said: “The Premier League Kicks Cup is an amazing opportunity. It's something to be very proud of for anyone that goes out there.
"It's those kinds of big opportunities that contribute towards developing someone. It has made my dreams come true."
Zahra moved to the UK and spoke little English, but that changed when she was introduced to Kicks.
"Coming to Kicks allowed me to meet other people who shared my passion for football and we have become very good friends,” she continued.
“Kicks helped me to improve my communication, it gave me more confidence that I could use in life away from football.”
At the start of the year, Zahra completed her coaching badges and since February has been working with a PL Kicks coach – a role she hopes will inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
"Growing up in this neighbourhood, there weren't many role models, especially being a girl," she said.
"I want to be that girl and have other girls in the community look up to me.”
For more information on the Premier League Kicks programme, click here.
