Barnsbury’s children got the chance to see what it is like to train like a Premier League football player.
Arsenal in the Community, a division of Arsenal FC, held their second football coaching session for 25 local kids at Barnsbury football pitch on Lofting Road last week.
The event was organised by Barnsbury Housing Association and was launched in 2017 with two sessions held annually in April and October. They include free football games and training for boys and girls aged 8-16.
Photo credit: Patrick Penny-Annang, communication manager BHA
A coach from Arsenal in the Community, who led activities during this session, said: “Our society is currently under much pressure due to the rising cost of living. So, we thought that providing free coaching sessions for the community would allow children to enjoy hours of fun after school and go home safely.”
The event resumed in April this year after it had been suspended during the pandemic. Residents welcomed the event, which restarted at a tough time due to the cost-of-living crisis.
Patrick Penny-Annang, engagement and communications manager of Barnsbury Housing Association, said: “Families wanted activities and events that we ran pre-pandemic. Our sessions are free with lunch included, unlike typical football coaching sessions that can be expensive especially if more than child is attending.”
? Day 2 on the way. ??
Brilliant turn out for our Half Term football coaching with @AFCCommunity #barnsbury #islington #halfterm pic.twitter.com/c4hMw6uOnf
— Barnsbury Housing Association (@BarnsburyHA) October 26, 2022
After the session, Arsenal hats and scarves were given to participants as gifts.
The coach said: “I could see kids who did not know each other on the first day engaging in, playing, and helping each other in the session the next day. That is what we would like to see.”
The Barnsbury Housing Association holds various community events throughout the year which can be found here.
