West Ham United duo Freddie Potts and El Hadji Malick Diouf took time out of their busy schedule to meet and engage with youngsters at a community event hosted by Soccer in the Streets in Atlanta during the Irons' tour of the USA.
Founded in 1989, Soccer in the Streets provides free, community-based soccer programmes to young people across Atlanta, breaking down barriers and ensuring that every child, regardless of their economic background, has access to sport and the subsequent health and social benefits.
The organisation’s approach includes building soccer fields at MARTA transit stations within Atlanta, and Potts and Diouf were welcomed with open arms by participants at the West End complex on Saturday.
After first being greeted by the Mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens, and the Premier League CEO, Richard Masters, the Hammers took to the pitch to get stuck into a session being conducted by West Ham United Foundation Higher Education Manager, Alfie Crickmar, while passing on their best tips.
There was time for plenty of photos and autograph signing before Potts and Diouf were then introduced to members of the Atlanta Ironworks Official Supporters’ Club, who shared their stories and passed on plenty of encouragement.
Potts said: “I always enjoy giving back to communities, and I resonate with events like this a lot because I used to go to soccer schools myself.
“I remember being in a similar position to the youngsters we’ve been working with today, and hopefully for them it’s been memorable and inspiring.
“Organisations like Soccer in the Streets are vital because football and sport offer so many different benefits, and I think it’s really important that everyone, from all backgrounds, gets the opportunity to get involved.
“The kids were really engaged and seemed to enjoy themselves, and there was some nice stuff being played out there, too!”
Crickmar, who was in the US to provide Soccer in the Streets sessions for the youngsters and also support the development of the organisation’s coaches, added: “The work Soccer in the Streets do over here is fantastic - they provide somewhere where these kids have something to do, they’re safe, and they have access to free sport.
“Having the players here today was incredible for the youngsters. They all watch the Premier League, and it was clear to see on their faces how excited they were. I’m sure they’ll all be inspired to keep working hard, reap all the benefits of the sport and look to follow in the players’ footsteps.”
