Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) have named Premier League Kicks participant Gracie as the club’s Premier League Community Champion, recognising her outstanding commitment and progress within the programme.
The award forms part of the Premier League’s recent More Than A Game campaign, marking the 20-year anniversary of Premier League Kicks. Clubs across England have been celebrating their Community Champions - participants or staff whose involvement in Premier League-funded programmes has had a positive impact on themselves and those around them.
After experiencing social isolation and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gracie began attending CACT’s Premier League Kicks sessions. Since then, she has grown in confidence off the pitch, becoming more self-assured and happy, while continuing to develop on the pitch under the guidance of CACT’s staff.
Gracie was presented with her Premier League Community Champion trophy, armband and pennant by CACT’s Premier League Kicks and Mentoring Coordinator Josh Eales, who said: “It has been fantastic to see Gracie’s growth since she began attending our girls-only Premier League Kicks sessions. She has made a core group of friends and grown in confidence; it has been a pleasure to see her development over the last two years.”
Gracie’s mum added: “I’m honoured to call Gracie my daughter. The Premier League Kicks programme and CACT’s staff have helped me get my little girl back. I’ve seen her come back into her own and be the girl I lost a few years ago because of her anxiety. Seeing her recognised for her dedication, passion and commitment to Premier League Kicks is amazing.”
Funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund, Premier League Kicks uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential in some of the most high-need areas of England and Wales. Click here to learn more about CACT’s Premier League Kicks sessions.