The Football in the Community at Wolverhampton Wanderers started life in 1991. From that time the scheme has been linked to a number of community based initiatives and is now sponsored by Birmingham Midshires.

Over the years the project has received a number of accolades, none more so than the national recognition for the formation of the Twilight and Midnight leagues. This initiative was awarded the Government's Sports Match Community award in 2001.

The aims and objectives of the project have changed over the years.

- to encourage more people to be involved in football.
- to encourage more people to watch football.
- to encourage more people to take an interest in and support their local Football Club by forging closer links between the club and surrounding communities.
- to enhance the profile of the game.
- to create a positive & friendly atmosphere during matches.
- to enhance the football clubs image within its community.

The project encourages everyone, regardless of ability, age and gender to support and play football.

Forming working partnerships with commercial, voluntary and City councils are all vital to ensure the aims and objectives are achieved.

Our core activities are:

1. COACHING PROGRAMMES

2. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES

3. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

4. SOCIAL INCLUSION INITIATIVES

5. DISABILITY PROGRAMME

Number of Participants January 2006 - January 2007

Wolverhampton Wanderers Football in the Community, through the diverse number of activities run, had, in the year 2006-2007 direct contact with over 140,000 children and 20,000 adults. These numbers have been growing annually since the programme started in 1991.

It is estimated that between January 2007 and January 2008 the scheme will have increased the direct contact with young people and adults to a figure of 150,00 four-16 year olds and 25,000 adults.

Call the community department on 0870 442 0123 or email community@wolves.co.uk

Picture: The Wolves in the Community Team.