Note: To keep the young person's identity confidential, we refer to them as 'B' throughout the example below. Any individuals in the header image are for illustrative purposes only and are not the subjects of this case study.
About Marfleet Champions
Delivered by Local Works, Marfleet Champions is an innovative early intervention strategy designed to impact risk-taking behaviour using sports programmes.
The team often engage with young people who have already been involved in petty crime and gang culture.
Young people take part in a wide range of sporting activities, circuit training and boxing. They have an opportunity to pursue individual sporting or keep fit sessions and are encouraged to engage in team activities. These are designed to not only improve their physical fitness, but to develop team-building skills and confidence in their own abilities.
The Humber Violence Prevention Partnership funded this project in 2024/25.
Background
B joined the afterschool sports sessions in March 2024, encouraged by a friend who had been involved with Marfleet Champions for some time. They both attend an alternative provision for students who are no longer in mainstream education.
When he first arrived, B had very limited experience of sporting environments and seemed anxious. Sometimes he refused to engage or acted ‘boisterous’ to interfere with the sessions.
A Warm Welcome
B told a group leader at Marfleet Champions that he had learning difficulties, so he gets a lot of extra support in school. His autism was also a barrier to studying and making friends. The group welcomed B and made him feel comfortable in the sessions. He gradually got more involved in the sports and made new friends.
Now, B always arrives to sessions with at least 5 friends. He is by far the most enthusiastic player and is often first on the pitch – even before the group leaders!
Developing Football Skills
Since joining Marfleet Champions, B has been practising football in his garden. He proudly shows the group leaders videos of his new skills, which they love to watch. His behaviour is excellent and he never misses a session, regardless of the weather.
Feedback
Group Leader Martin said, "It’s been a pleasure to watch B grow in the sessions. It’s also a great reminder to me of the importance these free sports sessions we host for kids within the local area."
