As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the incredible achievements and milestones that defined 2024 for Blackpool FC Community Trust. From exciting new programmes to community-driven events, this year has been about creating meaningful impact across Blackpool. Here’s a look back at the highlights that shaped our year.
January saw us celebrating the EFL Community Heroes, individuals whose selfless dedication to the Club and the Trust was recognised during a special home game at Blackpool FC. This month also marked the launch of our Dementia Friendly Sporting Memories, a new session blending reminiscence, gentle physical activities through music, and engaging games, which has since reached many participants.
In February, we introduced Dance Camp for children aged five to 14 in partnership with AVR Dance, welcoming hundreds of participants who enjoyed routines covering a variety of styles. That same month, we hosted the PL Inspires Challenge at Bloomfield Road Stadium, where pupils from five partner schools showcased their inspiring social action ideas, with Armfield Academy emerging as the winner.
March brought the launch of our Friday morning Breakfast Club for families with young children, offering interactive activities and social opportunities over breakfast. We were also thrilled to introduce an Esports education programme through Blackpool FC Sports College, paving pathways into this dynamic and fast-growing industry.
In April, students from Blackpool FC School participated in the Young Detectives Programme, gaining hands-on experience in policing and investigative techniques. Our PL Inspires Challenge winning team from Armfield Academy visited the Celebration Event at Wembley Stadium, where they presented their impactful mental health-themed social action project to a national audience.
May was filled with excitement as we hosted the Fit2Go Festival at Bloomfield Road, where over 1,200 children participated in sporting activities, and our annual Pitch Takeover event provided participants from various sessions the opportunity to play on the iconic pitch, creating unforgettable memories.
June saw the launch of our Active Minds sessions, designed to promote mental well-being through sport and social engagement. We also held our SEND School Boccia Festival, fostering inclusivity and friendship through friendly competition for students who might not typically participate in extracurricular activities.
In July, young people from our PL Kicks programme attended the PL Kicks Disability Festival in Middlesbrough, forming new friendships and building teamwork skills. We celebrated Blackpool’s footballing legend Sir Jimmy Armfield with the annual Jimmy Armfield Tournament, and pupils participating in the Beaverbrooks-sponsored Enterprise Challenge impressed judges with their innovative business ideas.
August was a month of achievement for Blackpool FC Sports College students, who proudly collected their qualifications. Charlie, one of our dedicated graduates, shared his journey of gaining valuable coaching experience, including working with children with disabilities. Our enrolment day later that month welcomed the next group of students, eager to pursue careers in sports and Esports.
In September, we launched our Elite Coaching Pathway programme for high-ability girls, with coaching from UEFA-qualified staff and Blackpool FC Ladies First Team players. We also hosted our Impact Review and 2024-2027 Strategic Plan Launch, showcasing a season focused on collaboration and future positive change for the community.
October marked the launch of our Get Fit with BFCCT programme, offering affordable fitness classes for all abilities. We also held the annual Fit2Glow Final at the Tower Circus, where young players from local schools competed in a day of football and fun.
November brought our participation in Blackpool FC’s Remembrance Day fixture, raising funds for the Royal British Legion and honouring local veterans and active-duty soldiers. This month also featured the EFL Week of Action, during which Blackpool FC players attended several sessions, creating meaningful moments with our participants.
Finally, December saw the launch of our Festive Fundraiser in partnership with Blackpool FC. This initiative aims to ensure no child goes without a gift Christmas, with every donation matched by Simon Sadler to double the impact.
As we look back on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for everyone who contributed to making this year so special. Together, we’ve made a difference, and we can’t wait to see what 2025 will bring.
