Foundation 92 and Salford City FC are proud to celebrate Kiaron, who has been named the club’s 2025/26 Premier League Community Captain in recognition of his remarkable personal development, leadership and dedication to his local community. The award was presented to him by Salford City FC Players Ryan Graydon & Zach Awe.
Kiaron, a young man from Broughton, Salford, first engaged with the Premier League Kicks programme during its first year of delivery at Albert Park. At that time, Kiaron was struggling with confidence and self-esteem and had experienced bullying for several years. He was also facing challenges with his mental health and had frequently become involved in verbal and physical conflicts with peers both at school and in his community.
Local partners from Salford Youth Service identified that Kiaron would benefit from structured, positive provision to help build healthier relationships and channel his energy. Premier League Kicks provided a safe and welcoming environment through free weekly football sessions in his local community, where consistent coaching support helped him feel comfortable and valued.
Over time, Kiaron became a regular participant, attending sessions each week and taking part in community tournaments. Alongside football, he also engaged with workshops focused on respect, making positive life choices and managing emotions. Coaches encouraged him to share ideas and take on informal leadership roles within sessions, helping build his confidence and sense of responsibility.
Kiaron’s involvement in Kicks has had a clear impact across his life. He has developed a new friendship group, moved away from peers who encouraged risky behaviour and now feels part of a positive community.
Initially quiet and reserved, Kiaron has grown in confidence and now speaks openly with staff and peers. He has supported younger participants at sessions and expressed an interest in gaining coaching qualifications in the future. As Kicks coach Brad explained: “He’s come out of his shell massively, and now he’s the one encouraging others.”
Local partners and Kiaron’s school have also noted a reduction in reports of anti-social behaviour since he began regularly attending sessions.
Through the programme, Kiaron has also built a strong connection with Salford City FC, developing a real sense of pride in his local club. He now holds a season ticket and has enjoyed meeting players through Foundation 92 activities.
Kiaron was surprised with his Premier League Community Captain award at a special presentation, receiving his captain’s armband and pennant in recognition of his achievements.
The Community Captain award forms part of the Premier League’s ‘More Than A Game’ campaign, recognising people at the heart of Premier League-funded community programmes. More Than A Game highlights how football can drive change through education, improving wellbeing and creating opportunities for those who need it most.
Kiaron’s journey reflects the power of community football to inspire young people, build confidence and create brighter futures.
Congratulations to Kiaron — Foundation 92’s 2025/26 Premier League Community Captain.
Find out more about Premier League Kicks: https://foundation92.co.uk/our-work/community-engagement/young-people-programmes/premier-league-kicks/
My son Kiaron Smith