Liam’s Trust journey is full of sports, personal achievements, and volunteering. Beginning eight years ago as part of the Mini-Kicks programme, the Trust would be with Liam through his childhood into his teenage years, preparing him for whatever the future may hold, and for Liam, that future looks bright.
Engagement has included football, youth club, boxing, white water rafting, and mountain biking (the latter two were only made possible by funding via the Jack Petchey Achievement Award). Then, in 2022 Liam was chosen to captain the under-16 team at the National Kicks Cup. His involvement wasn’t just led by sports and activities though; Liam has since been elected by his peers to form part of the Youth Board at Meriden Community Centre, looking to improve the offer to other young people. As part of the board, Liam worked with other members to help to raise £700 for the Trust through a Community Fun Day. Always keen to give back, during the Coronavirus pandemic and at a time when restrictions were rife, Liam and his friends led a quiz for older members of the community who may have been feeling isolated.
This humility has continued as the teenager has volunteered at Girls’ Football, Disability Football, and Mini Kicks. Now Liam is part of a project which will see him lead sessions on his own, build relationships with other coaches, and start his coaching qualifications.
“Being able to support the local community and undertake my Level-One Coaching qualification has been a great experience. Giving my time is the least I can do, having experienced the power of Kicks first-hand through years of participating. Seeing the kids have fun, smile, and enjoy the sessions week in and week out makes it all worthwhile.”