
A simple conversation grew a wider relationship. The original focus was targeted sessions for individuals from East and Southeast Asian groups – a demographic clearly lacking when you compare localised statistics with participant data.
The sessions at Watford FC’s training ground soon started with a collaboration between The Frank Soo Foundation, the Trust, Club, and the FA; increasing from an initial 20 children to 50 that now enjoy their football, not to mention their families who volunteer at the sessions. The man at the centre of that movement was Alan. Since then, Alan has also been pivotal in the creation of the ESEA Hornets Supporters Group, supported events, helped educate through workshops and translated resources for participants and staff alike.
“Family is a very important factor in East and Southeast Asian culture, and I truly feel that Watford FC and the Trust has made us part of their family. With their support, we’ve brought football to the ESEA community in our area, including bringing families and elderly members to their first football game. I feel privileged to work with the Club I support, and I hope our work is making a positive impact on people’s lives. It’s clear to see that Inclusion and Diversity are at the core of their thinking and there is always a ‘how can we help the community’ attitude.”
