BURTON Albion Community Trust (BACT) is delighted to highlight the ongoing success of its Street Soccer Academy, following the team’s recent participation in the Street Soccer Foundation National Tournament at Derby Racecourse.
The Street Soccer Academy is a free 10-week personal development programme that blends football coaching, mindset training, and employability skills workshops. Run in collaboration with community partners like YMCA Burton, the programme equips participants with the tools to transform their lives and reach their potential through the unifying power of sport.
Participants benefit by:
- Enhancing their physical and mental wellbeing.
- Building confidence, self-belief, and a more positive mindset.
- Strengthening their employability prospects.
- Developing vital life skills, including teamwork, communication, and goal setting.
- Engaging in a safe, supportive, and motivating environment.
The National Tournament brought together organisations from across the country that completed the Street Soccer Foundation’s “The Big Goal” programme. Alongside BACT, attendees included high-profile club community organisations such as Everton, Leicester City, Liverpool, West Ham, Crystal Palace, and others—demonstrating the nationwide impact of the programme.
Dan Steele, Community Support and Engagement Worker at YMCA Burton, commented: “This tournament has brought hope and opportunity to individuals who are actively working to change their lives while living at the YMCA. Burton Albion has served as a real inspiration to the young men involved, creating a support network that enables personal growth. We’re enjoying every minute and are thankful to Ben and the BACT team for making it possible.”
Ben Webster, Sport and Community Inclusion Manager at BACT, added: “It was a privilege to give our cohort the chance to represent BACT at a national level. The resilience and sportsmanship they showed are core values of the Street Soccer programme. We’re proud of their progress and excited to continue working with the YMCA. We also welcome other local organisations to join us in empowering individuals through sport.”
As the programme continues to expand, BACT is inviting new referrals and encouraging local partners across Burton and East Staffordshire to help create a healthier, more connected community.
To learn more about the Street Soccer Academy, CLICK HERE or contact ben.webster@burtonalbionct.org
