Watford FC’s Iconic Training Ground played host to an inspirational Anti-Violence Youth Tournament on Wednesday 29 October 2025, bringing together 65 young people from across Hertfordshire for a day of football, learning, and positive community engagement.
Led by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust, and delivered in partnership with the Stevenage FC Foundation and Hertfordshire Police, the event featured an Under-16 Mixed Tournament and an Under-14 Girls Tournament, with all participants drawn from the Premier League Kicks programme. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to tackle youth violence and promote safer, more connected communities across the county.
The tournament linked closely with the arrival of the Knife Angel in Welwyn Garden City — a 27-foot national monument created from over 100,000 confiscated knives and blades. The powerful sculpture serves as a symbol against violence and aggression, inspiring schools, youth organisations, and community groups to engage in education and prevention work. The event aimed to reinforce the same anti-violence message through the power of sport.
Uniformed police officers and the Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) Prevention and Diversion Team were in attendance to raise awareness of youth violence and promote positive decision-making. Young participants also signed up as Anti-Violence Champions, pledging to take a stand against violence in their communities.
Workshops were delivered by Dignify, the Hertfordshire Fire Service, and You Turn Futures, focusing on safety, healthy relationships, and personal development.
Adding to the excitement, Watford FC Men’s First Team players James Morris, Mattie Pollock, and Max Alleyne attended the tournament, taking part in Q&A sessions and engaging with young people about teamwork, respect, and making positive life choices.
The day highlighted the unifying power of football and partnership in creating safer, stronger communities across Hertfordshire.
“This event was about using the power of football to start meaningful conversations around violence, respect, and community. The presence of the Knife Angel in Welwyn Garden City has been a powerful reminder of the real impact of knife crime, and we wanted to build on that message in a way that empowers young people to be part of the solution. Seeing them step forward as Anti-Violence Champions and through their continued participation within the Premier League KICKS programme shows how sport can truly inspire change.” Elliot Bird – Watford FC’s CSET
Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund, uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential, in some of the most high-need areas in England and Wales.