As Nottingham recovers from its summer of World Cup fever, three men are working hard to make sure the excitement generated by the tournament has positive and long-lasting side-effects, both on the field and off it.
Anthony Spencer, Wesleigh Burke and Stephen Jones are the people behind Nottingham Education FC, a not-for-profit organisation designed to teach valuable life skills through the medium of sport in the hope of influencing Nottingham’s youngsters to become, as Steve puts it, “More knowledgeable, more aware and more trusting”.
It’s clear that Anthony, Wes and Steve all passionately believe in the power of education, utilising their own experiences of professional football, international futsal and university education as a way to impress upon youngsters the need to cultivate life skills such as communication, resilience, leadership and togetherness to build a successful and fulfilling future.
Collectively they work at FUEL (First Universal Education Ltd), an alternate provision, working to improve the lives of young people in the Nottingham’s communities, providing education and mentoring support.
For the past twenty years NEFC have had a presence in Aspley, Whitemoor, Broxtowe and surrounding areas with a community football club that provides a safe, fun environment, whilst learning life lessons. They have around twenty teams, ranging from 6-18 years old, open to boys and girls, and play across YEL, NYFL, and JPL leagues; as well as running a college program for young adults looking to study BTECs and play football at the same time.
The aim is to keep fees as low as possible, a vision made possible thanks to support from local businesses. As the organisation continues to grow, the team have their sights set on a 4G pitch in Melbourne Park and are hoping for investment to further facilities; there is a chance that Nottingham Education FC can be responsible for providing Nottingham with a future generation of footballing stars.
But the main objective for all at Nottingham Education FC is, as Steve summerises, “making better people, first and foremost”.
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