As part of the Premier League’s More Than A Game campaign, Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust is proud to celebrate the impact of football beyond the pitch by recognising a standout individual as its Community Captain.
The campaign highlights the vital support the Premier League provides at every level of the game, helping young people and communities to thrive. This year’s presentation also coincides with the celebration of 20 years of the Premier League Kicks programme – an initiative that uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people and help them reach their potential.
Delivered locally across Hertfordshire and Harrow by the Trust, Premier League Kicks provides free, safe and inclusive sessions for young people, creating opportunities to develop both on and off the pitch.
This year’s Community Captain award has been presented to Joakim Ehui, a Casual Coach and Youth Worker who has been part of the programme since July 2021.
Joakim delivers weekly sessions including Youth Club, Football, and Mini-Kicks at Cedars Youth and Community Centre and Westfield Academy. Alongside this, he has led a range of impactful workshops for young people aged 11–18, covering important topics such as Show Racism the Red Card, Black Lives Matter, and Youth Voice.
He has also supported young people to access further opportunities through football, coaching Premier League Kicks teams in tournaments, events and fixtures, and nominating participants who demonstrate positive behaviour and a commitment to going above and beyond.
Joakim is widely recognised for his exceptional ability to engage young people. His friendly, empathetic and enthusiastic approach helps him build strong relationships, taking a genuine interest in young people’s lives and creating an environment where they feel valued and supported.
Through his work, Joakim consistently helps to create safe, fun and inclusive spaces at every session. He also goes the extra mile beyond delivery, referring young people from his school-based role into the programme to ensure they can access additional support and opportunities, while actively promoting the benefits of Premier League Kicks.
Speaking about Joakim’s impact, a member of Trust staff said:
“Joakim has been an outstanding coach and role model for our community. He consistently goes above and beyond to engage young people, delivering high-quality sessions and workshops. Joakim’s ability to connect with young people is exceptional, building safe, fun and inclusive environments where young people feel valued and supported. A fantastic advocate for our Premier League Kicks programme.”
Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust continues to deliver Premier League Kicks sessions across the region, using the power of football to support, inspire and empower young people to achieve their full potential.