The Albion Foundation's PL Kicks programme continues to change lives, and 14-year-old Lord's journey is a gleaming example.
Since first stepping into the energetic, friendly environment of Kicks at Hadley Stadium in January of 2022 - Lord has taken part in 187 sessions across the Foundation's initiatives, showcasing the transformative power of football.
A quiet individual greeted Youth Engagement Coach Kadeem Jordan at the first session but Lord was quickly taken under Jordan's wing, and began to find his own voice.
Lord hadn't yet discovered the opportunities to play competitive football outside of Kicks, meaning these free sessions soon became crucial for developing his football skills and social confidence.
In the summer of 2023, Lords potential continued to be touted, and eventually recognised as he was referred to the Foundation's under-14 Midlands Junior Premier League side - an opportunity that without Kicks - would've been out of reach.
Throughout the 2023/24 campaign, Lord thrived, participating in over 30 Hadley Stadium sessions, community tournaments and unique experiences like playing an away fixture at Black Country rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Every opportunity, Lord grasped with both hands, enriching his team building skills and understanding of sportsmanship.
Beyond football, Lord's journey veered in the direction of the Strike a Change programme, after being referred by Holly Lodge School. With Kicks coach Jordan as his mentor, he focused on improving his school performance and behaviour.
Lord has shown significant improvement through the Strike a Change programme, with a 25% reduction in negative behaviour points compared to the previous school year. His renewed demeanour has also seen him commit to becoming a peer mentor for new students starting in September 2024.
His first season in competitive football culminated in two accolades too, including Players' Player and Parents' Player awards at the MJPL ceremony.
As Lord enters the new under-15's season, his aspirations extend beyond personal success, becoming a Legacy Leader, he will mentor younger participants at PL Kicks sessions - embodying the values that shaped his own journey.
His story epitomises the Foundation's mission to inspire and empower. With football as the catalyst, Lord's transformation into a confident, driven and community-focused individual, is a testament to the PL Kicks programme where his journey began/