Sports Connect is proud to announce the completion of a vibrant and impactful summer season, during which hundreds of young people across Kent were engaged through a dynamic series of sports activities. Over the span of just six weeks, Sports Connect delivered more than 70 events across seven districts, creating memorable experiences and fostering a love for sports in the community.
The summer programme was made possible through a strong partnership with Kent Police and the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit, who helped to offer free sports activities to participants. Additionally, Sports Connect collaborated with The Education People to deliver the Holiday Activity and Food programme at Aylesford Bulls Rugby Club and supported the Family Hubs in various districts.
The team’s commitment to community engagement saw them reach out to young people in Thanet, Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone, Medway, Maidstone, Ashford, and Swale. With the support of Kooth, an organisation dedicated to mental well-being, many sessions also included free support for young people and their families. The Kent FA Adult Calm Clubs continued to provide a vital space for community members to stay active and connected through sports.
Lisa Sparkes, Head of Community at Sports Connect, expressed her pride in the team’s accomplishments: “Having put together such an ambitious programme for the summer, along with working closely with new and existing partners, I am incredibly proud of the Sports Connect team and all the hours they have dedicated to providing so many safe spaces for our young people to engage in through the power of sport. The summer holidays can be a challenging time away from the school day routines, and having so many free opportunities for the young people to engage in and stay active has been incredible.”
One of the summer’s highlights was the introduction of the Soccerena, Sports Connect’s portable sports arena, which brought free football sessions to high-traffic locations such as Canterbury High Street, the Thanet Games, and Sheerness. Additionally, free sports sessions, including box fitness, dodgeball, and multi-sport activities, were held in local parks and other designated areas, providing essential diversionary activities for young people.
In a unique initiative, Sports Connect also offered a free Level 1 multi-sport qualification, which was embraced by local policing teams who put their new skills into practice by engaging directly with their communities during the sessions. The success of this initiative has sparked interest among young participants, leading to plans for additional qualification opportunities in October.
As the summer season wraps up, Sports Connect and its partners are now focusing on Term 1 community delivery. The organisation is eager to continue working alongside schools and community groups to provide even more engaging opportunities, ensuring a positive impact on the lives of young people through the power of sport.
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