Sport Archives - Accrington Stanley Community Trust

Category: Sport

June 30, 2025

Summer Kicks 2025

Summer Kicks launches on 21st July 2025, aiming to get young people across Hyndburn active and engaged through football and a variety of other sports.

Thanks to generous support from both the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime and the Lancashire Police & Crime Commissioner, we’re able to deliver additional sessions in and around Hyndburn — all completely free for young people aged 8 to 17.

These sessions provide a safe, welcoming, and positive environment, where young people can take part in organised, fun sporting activities led by qualified and experienced staff. From football to multi-sport opportunities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Summer Kicks is all about giving young people the chance to get active, make friends, and have fun in a supportive setting. We look forward to a summer full of energy, engagement, and community spirit!

“We would like to thank the LANPAC and LPAC for their assistance in funding this project, which has allowed us to offer more FREE sessions throughout Hyndburn this summer. This will create a safe environment for young people to play sports, have fun, and make new friends. We will hold ten sessions in the local community over a six-day period. “This will be extremely beneficial for young people.” Project Manager– Amber Kenyon

”We’re proud to be delivering the Summer Kicks project across Hyndburn, providing young people with safe, engaging, and positive opportunities during the school holidays. Thanks to the vital support from LANPAC and the Lancashire Police & Crime Commissioner, we’re able to expand our reach and offer more free sessions in areas that need them most.

This project is about more than just sport — it’s about creating safer communities, building confidence, and giving young people a sense of belonging. By working closely with local partners, we’re helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and give young people something positive to look forward to this summer” Head of Sport & Health – Lee Walsh

To register your interest in the project please complete the online form below.

April 11, 2025

KELLOGG’S FOOTBALL CAMPS RETURN

KELLOGG’S FOOTBALL CAMPS RETURN FOR A SECOND YEAR WITH OVER 30,000 FREE PLACES

Kellogg’s Football Camps are back for a second year, thanks to Kellogg’s in partnership with the English Football League (EFL),plus current Premier League champions, Manchester City, and Scottish powerhouses, Celtic and Rangers.

With over 30,000 places available across over 70 Clubs nationwide, parents of children in Hyndburn, Rossendale & Ribble Valley, aged 5-12yrs can sign up for a FREE football camp place this summer, hosted by Accrington Stanley.

Kellogg’s Football Camps will provide families with more ways to keep their children active over the summer holidays, tapping into Britain’s love for the ‘beautiful game’, and making summer activities more accessible for young football fans across the country.

Following a hugely successful first year that saw over 58,000 camp visits, Kellogg’s Football Camps are fun and inclusive sports sessions for both boys and girls. Plus, for anyone who signs up and claims one of the more than30,000 camp days on offer, they will be in with the chance to win a FREE Kellogg’s football shirt to wear with pride*.

Northern Ireland international and Chesterfield goal scorer, Will Grigg, who helped launch the second year of the Kellogg’s football camps, said: “It’s so important for kids to be active, not just to stay healthy but because of the social benefits that playing sport can bring. Growing up, playing football gave me the opportunity to make new friends, feel part of a team and develop a sense of identity. It also taught me how to be resilient, build confidence and self-belief–and it still teaches kids those same life skills today.

Signing up for a free Kellogg’s camp spot this summer couldn’t be easier.

Parents simply need to purchase a pack of cereal then head to www.kelloggsfc.com and enter the unique cereal box code to secure a spot and be in with a chance to receive a free football shirt*.

Last summers Kellogg's camps were a huge success and we want this year year to be even bigger and better, grab your box of Kellogg's and claim your free day with us now!

Lee Walsh

Head of Sport & Health

March 26, 2025

Easter Holiday Camps

Exciting Easter Holiday Camps Launch at Stanley Sports Hub with Accrington Stanley Community Trust

Get ready for a fun-filled Easter break at Stanley Sports Hub’s holiday camps, brought to you by Accrington Stanley Community Trust!

This Easter, Accrington Stanley Community Trust is offering two fantastic camp options for children aged 4 to 12 at the Stanley Sports Hub. Whether your little one is a budding footballer or someone who loves a variety of activities, there’s something for everyone!

Football Camp for Young Football Stars

For aspiring footballers, the Football Camp will give children the chance to develop their skills in a fun and engaging environment. With expert coaches from the Accrington Stanley Community Trust, young players will enjoy a mix of drills, games, and friendly competition to improve their techniques, teamwork, and confidence. Whether they’re new to the sport or looking to improve their game, this camp will keep them active and entertained throughout the break.

Activity Club for All-Round Fun

If your child enjoys a variety of activities, our Activity Club is the perfect choice! Packed with exciting games, sports, and creative activities, this camp is designed to keep children engaged, active, and having fun all day long. From arts and crafts to team games, the Activity Club ensures a diverse range of activities for children to enjoy during the Easter holidays.

Affordable Prices for a Full Week of Fun

We’re pleased to offer affordable pricing for both camps, making it easier for families to enjoy a holiday break with us:

Football Camp: £20 per day or £88 for the full week (Monday to Friday)
Activity Club: £20 per day or £88 for the full week (Monday to Friday)

Both camps run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 5:00pm each day, providing a full day of fun and development for children. Early drop-off options are available on request.

Book Your Spot Today!

Spaces for both camps are limited, so don’t miss out on securing your child’s place for a memorable Easter break at Stanley Sports Hub. To book, click here or call the team for more information 01254 475013.

Give your child the gift of a fun-filled Easter at Stanley Sports Hub – where skills are developed, friendships are made, and lasting memories are created!

March 19, 2025

Stanley Summer Series

Summer is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by getting involved in the Stanley Summer Series at Stanley Sports Hub!

This thrilling tournament-style competition will bring together teams from across the region, offering an action-packed football experience throughout the summer months.

The Stanley Summer Series is more than just a kickabout—it’s a full-scale tournament experience, complete with structured fixtures, group stages, and knockout rounds leading to a grand final.

The Stanley Summer Series is open to grassroots teams in the 2024/25 age groups. Whether you’re an established side or a newly formed squad, this is your chance to make a name for yourselves on the pitch.

With excitement building and places filling fast, now is the time to register your team and be part of this unmissable summer tournament. Don’t miss your chance to compete, improve, and experience grassroots football at its best!

Sign your team up here www.tinyurl.com/rm6nnhzc

February 17, 2025

New MNF League

Exciting New Look Monday Night Football League at Accrington Academy!

We are thrilled to announce the return of our Monday Night Football League, now with a fresh new look! Get ready for an action-packed season of 5-a-side football, held at the Accrington Academy, where competition is fierce, and the stakes are high.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to get involved in some weekly fun, our revamped league is the perfect opportunity for teams of all levels. Here’s everything you need to know about the new look Monday Night Football League:

League Format:

5-a-side football – Get your boots on and bring your A-game! Small-sided games mean more touches, more action, and a faster-paced match.
Promotion and Relegation – It’s a true test of skill and consistency! Every season, the top teams get promoted, while the lower-ranked teams face relegation. No room for complacency!

Affordable & Flexible:

£30 per team per week – That’s all it takes to get involved. No hidden costs, no signing-on fees—just pure football fun.

Location:

Held at the Accrington Academy, the league will be played in top-notch facilities. Whether you’re a local team or coming from further afield, it’s the perfect venue to showcase your skills!

Why Join?

Great value for regular competitive play.
No signing-on fee means no upfront costs!
Promotion and relegation make every match count.
A community atmosphere where everyone is welcome.
A chance to improve as a team week by week.

How to Register:

Gather your team and sign up today to secure your spot in the league! You can easily register by completing the online registration form

Hurry—places are limited, and we don’t want you to miss out on the action.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of the new look Monday Night Football League. The excitement, the competition, and the thrill of weekly football action are waiting for you. Bring your friends, bring your passion, and let’s make this season one to remember!

For any questions or more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch. info@stanleytrust.co.uk 01254 475013

February 6, 2025

Sports Fair Success

The recent Football College Sports Fair at Stanley Sports Hub proved to be a success, bringing together students, families, and the local community for a fun-filled day of sports and fundraising. The event, designed to support the students’ upcoming trip to Portugal in March, showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of the students.

Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a variety of exciting activities, with competitive and friendly matches. In addition to the inflatable shootout, the fair featured engaging games such as table tennis and darts competitions, allowing participants of all skill levels to get involved and contribute to the fundraising efforts.

The event not only provided a platform for students to demonstrate their sporting talents but also completed part of their coursework in organising an event from the first concept to it actually taking place.

Families and supporters turned up, showing their generosity by taking part in games, purchasing refreshments, and donating towards the students’ travel fund. The funds raised during the fair will go a long way in ensuring the students can embark on their much-anticipated trip to Portugal, where they will have the opportunity to train and compete at an international level.

Kasom Shah, Sports Mentor commented: ‘It was fantastic to see the students truly enjoying themselves while leading the event, especially after all the hard work and effort they put into organising it. The event was a great example of how their study programme connects to real-world roles in the sports industry. The support from friends, families, and the wider community was incredible, and the funds raised will make a real difference in helping the students travel to Portugal, where they will gain invaluable experiences.’

February 3, 2025

Cancer Alliance Project

New Cancer Awareness Project with Thanks to Funding Partners Spring North and The Lancashire & South Cumbria Integrated Care Board

Accrington Stanley Community Trust is proud to announce the launch of a new cancer awareness initiative, aimed at educating the public on the signs and symptoms of a wide variety of cancers and empowering individuals to seek help if they are concerned about their health.

The project has been made possible through the generous support of our funding partners, Spring North and the Lancashire & South Cumbria Integrated Care Board. Their commitment to supporting health and wellbeing initiatives has allowed us to reach more people in our community and make a significant impact on cancer awareness.

Our cancer awareness project will engage with local communities by attending public events, sharing vital information at community projects, and hosting special matchday awareness events. These efforts are part of our ongoing mission to promote early detection and provide the public with the tools and knowledge to recognize potential signs of cancer.

“We are excited to launch this project in partnership with Spring North and the Lancashire & South Cumbria Integrated Care Board,” said Lee Walsh, Head of Sport & health at Accrington Stanley Community Trust. “Our goal is simple – to ensure that people understand the importance of recognizing potential cancer symptoms early and to encourage them to seek help if they have concerns. The more people we can reach, the better chance we have of saving lives.”

Jade Bond, Project Manager at Spring North said ”Spring North is pleased to support 18 organisations across Lancashire and South Cumbria through the new Cancer Alliance project. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the signs, symptoms, and screening processes for cancer. We are particularly interested in the outcomes of Accrington Stanley Community Trust’s focus on community education and signposting, in addition to their existing programs that benefit local residents.”

The project will include interactive information stalls, educational materials, guidance at local events and social media campaigns helping people of all ages and backgrounds to learn more about the risks associated with cancer. By working with local partners and stakeholders, we aim to create a lasting impact on cancer awareness in our community.

Cancer can present in many different ways, but some common symptoms to be aware of include:

Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Changes in the skin (such as new moles or changes in existing ones)
A lump or swelling
Unexplained pain
Changes in bowel or bladder habits

If you notice any of these symptoms or something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. Early detection can greatly improve outcomes, and your doctor will be able to guide you through the next steps. Don’t hesitate to seek help—getting checked early could make all the difference.

For more information about this project or if you have an event planned you think it would be good for us to attend please contact us on 01254 475013 or by emailing lee.walsh@stanleytrust.co.uk

January 15, 2025

New Look Adult Disability Project

Accrington Stanley Community Trust Unveils New Look Adult Disability Provision with Football and Multi-Sport Sessions

Accrington Stanley Community Trust is proud to announce the launch of an exciting new look for its Adult Disability Provision, designed to offer participants a more inclusive and diverse sporting experience. Thanks to funding and support from Sport England, the revamped programme now includes both football and multi-sport sessions, providing a wider range of physical activities for adults with disabilities in the local community.

The new provision is a direct response to growing demand for more varied and accessible sports opportunities, with the aim of promoting physical health, mental well-being, and social inclusion. Whether it’s developing football skills or trying out different sports, participants will now have the chance to engage in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Key Highlights of the Program:

Football Sessions: Tailored to suit various skill levels and abilities, these sessions offer participants the chance to improve their football techniques while enjoying the team spirit and camaraderie of the game.
Multi-Sport Sessions: Designed to provide a variety of activities including, but not limited to, basketball, tennis, and athletics, these sessions are intended to keep the programme fun, engaging, and adaptable to individual needs.
Inclusive Coaching: Expert coaches will lead the sessions, ensuring that the activities are accessible and enjoyable for all, regardless of ability.
Improved Facilities: The Trust has made significant investments in its facilities, ensuring that they are fully accessible and equipped to support the needs of all participants.

Accrington Stanley Community Trust has a long-standing commitment to providing high-quality, accessible community programs, and this new Adult Disability Provision reflects that ethos. The programme not only offers a chance to participate in sport but also fosters a sense of belonging, friendship, and achievement.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce this new and improved adult disability provision,” said Lee Walsh, Programme Coordinator at Accrington Stanley Community Trust. “Our goal is to offer a variety of sporting opportunities that are inclusive, fun, and empowering. We want everyone to feel like they belong and have the chance to enjoy the benefits of sport, regardless of their disability. We’re grateful to Sport England for their invaluable support, which has made this possible.”

Sessions will run weekly, with both football and multi-sport options available. Registration is now open, and the programme is designed to be flexible, allowing individuals to choose the sessions that best suit their interests and abilities.

Accrington Stanley Community Trust is dedicated to supporting the local community through a wide range of inclusive programmes and initiatives. Focused on promoting health, education, and well-being, the Trust works with people of all ages and backgrounds to ensure that sport is accessible to everyone.

For more information on the Adult Disability Provision or to register, please complete this online form and a member of our team will be in touch.

January 14, 2025

A Day to Remember

The magic of the FA Cup brings excitement and joy to players and fans alike, but for a few lucky mascots, the FA Cup 4th Round at Anfield was an experience they’ll never forget. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a day full of unforgettable memories, culminating in walking out onto the pitch alongside Accrington Stanley captain Shaun Whalley.

The day began with a warm welcome at Anfield, where the mascots Charlie, Samual and Finn and their families were treated to a hearty breakfast. It was the perfect start to a day full of excitement and adventure.

Next up was a guided tour of the legendary stadium. Anfield’s history came alive as the mascots tour included a visit to the Football Museum, where the Premier League trophy was on display. There was a special photo opportunity with the famous trophy, giving the mascot a taste of the glory every footballer dream of.

The highlight of the tour was venturing into the tunnel. Here, the mascots had the incredible chance to meet the players, capturing memorable photos in the same spot where countless football legends have stood. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone gearing up for the big match.

As kick off approached the mascots with captain Shaun Whalley and goal keeper Billy Crellin, walked out onto the pitch to a roar of applause, soaking in the cheers from the crowd.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Accrington Stanley at Anfield on January 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

‘ Being mascot was amazing! I loved walking out onto the pitch with Billy. I will always remember it’ , Charlie commented looking back on his experience.

October 4, 2024

National Poetry Day

Accrington Stanley Community Trust celebrated National Poetry Day and ask all of our partner schools to join in on the act! We wanted to celebrate our young people and their passion for poetry.

We are hosted a National Poetry Day Competition which saw over 50 schools take part in the challenge! We asked the children to create their own Accrington Stanley themed poem! The poem was allowed to be as long or a little as they wanted as long as there is an Accrington Stanley theme to it.

We celebrated the winners of each school in a school assembly on National Poetry Day and gave out some prizes to each school winner. The winners of each school then went into the final round of judging with the chance to win the overall prize which includes having your poem printed in an Accrington Stanley Match Day Programme, 4 free tickets to watch Accrington Stanley FC and to have their poem read over the tannoy live at the game!

All of the poems where fantastic and it was brilliant to see so many entries and one class actually used this a teaching opportunities to learn more about their local community as well as Accrington Stanley Football Club.

The results are in! Our National Poetry Day Competition winner was Oscar Weemes from Simonstone St Peters Church of England Primary School. His poem showed real quality and creativity and was a real credit to himself and his school. You can see his poem below:

Oscar choice to attend the big game between Accrington Stanley v Morecambe as Oscar has a passion for football and wanted to come and watch the rivalry in action.

This has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work of our young people and hopefully inspire different generations, it has been brilliant to visit our different partner schools and celebrate their creativity.

Thank you to everyone that took part and congratulations to all our winners especially Oscar!