NTFC Community Trust have launched ‘Cobblers Play Fair’ - a new, twelve-week programme aimed at tackling online abuse in football, in conjunction with the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association Players’ Fund.
Nine schools will be taking part in the programme, with topics ranging from bullying and online hate to discrimination and allyship. The programme will also include pan-disability, girls, and Premier League Kicks sessions.
The programme was launched at a special event at Sixfields Stadium on Tuesday afternoon with staff from the schools involved and key local and national stakeholders invited.
Maheta Molango, PFA CEO, said:
“Football has a real ability to bring people together and make a positive difference in communities. That’s why we’re so pleased to support initiatives like Cobblers Play Fair, which will help young people understand the impact of discrimination and the importance of treating others with respect.
“It’s a great example of how clubs and players can use their influence beyond the pitch, and we’re proud to work alongside Northampton Town and the Premier League to help make projects like this possible.”
Northampton Town men’s first team player, and secondary schools ambassador, Janoi Donacien, said,
"As a footballer, I have seen how powerful words can be, both on and off the pitch. I am proud to support Cobblers Play Fair, educating pupils about online abuse. If we can help them to recognise harmful behaviour we are creating a healthier digital future for everyone"
Lorna Stockwell Schools Manager at NTFC Community Trust, added,
"Thanks to the support from the PFA, I am proud to lead the Cobblers Play Fair programme. It is an important opportunity to help schools address the growing challenges of online abuse and empower young people to stay safe online and build a more positive online culture"
Cobblers Play Fair was made possible by the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association Players’ Fund.
Administered through the Premier League Foundation, the funding helps football club charities and player foundations to work with players to tackle inequality and respond to local challenges, supporting people and their communities to be more inclusive.
Photo credit: Pete Norton