Iceland brings search to Birmingham to kit out grassroots teams(Image: PA)
Iceland launching a search in Birmingham to find grassroots football teams most in need of new football kits, as new research reveals that 86% of parents say rising living costs have made it harder to support their child’s football dreams.
According to research conducted by Iceland Foods, 84% of children’s football teams in the UK rely on contributions from parents, or fundraising efforts, to afford new kits, with more than a fifth (22%) needing to do this every time a new strip is required.
In fact, two thirds of parents (67%) say their child has played in hand-me-down or old kits, while 16% report their children having to play in damaged kit that is not fit for purpose.
Ahead of a huge summer of football, Iceland is stepping in to support youth teams by providing brand-new sets of shirts to those who need them most, giving young players the chance to step onto the pitch feeling confident, united and ready to play.
The campaign, called ‘Kits for Kids’, will see hundreds of children receive new kits, easing the financial burden on families and teams and helping young players enjoy the game with pride and confidence.
To apply for the free kits, parents and coaches can put their club forward by visiting www.iceland.co.uk/kits-for-kids, submitting their details alongside a short 100-word entry explaining why their team would benefit from a kit upgrade.
Richard Walker, Executive Chairman of Iceland Foods said: “There are hundreds of thousands of grassroots football teams across the UK, offering incredible opportunities for children to play the sport the UK loves most.
“However, we know that many of these teams struggle to raise the funds needed for new kits, and that’s why we’re proud to step in and do the right thing.
“Our Kits for Kids campaign will support hundreds of young players by providing new kits. We’re looking forward to receiving entries, selecting the winners, and seeing teams take to the pitch in their brand-new strips.”
Winning teams will receive a full set of new home kits, with Iceland Foods working closely with each team to ensure their colours and badges are represented, with the Iceland logo also featured on the shirts.
“Winners will also receive a £100 Iceland voucher to help fund snacks and drinks for training and matchdays.
TV favourite and mum of one, Josie Gibson, is helping to lead the search and is calling on parents across the country to get involved.
Josie Gibson said: “As a mum with a young son who loves football, I know how important grassroots football is, and how quickly the costs can add up.
“These teams do so much for so many kids, so it’s disheartening to hear how many are struggling to afford new kits. That’s why I’m proud to support Iceland in giving back to community football teams, and I’d encourage all parents and guardians to get their entries in.”