News | WORLD AT THEIR FEET - DEAN TELFORD AND LOUIS THORNTON
IT is every boy’s dream to play in the World Cup.
Now teenagers Louis Thornton and Dean Telford’s wishes have come true after being selected to fly the flag for England in the Football for Hope Festival in Alexandra, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The pair were chosen for the once in a lifetime experience by SUNEE Street League, which uses sport to change the lives of disadvantaged people affected by unemployment, homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse as well as crime.
Up to 32 teams from across the globe will come together for the festival, all representing organisations that use sport to help create positive changes. Each player was chosen for their personal commitment to the work of their home organisations.
SUNEE Street League uses football in combination with education and training programmes to transform lives. The programme includes sessions with local companies, helps build confidence, improve health, extend social networks, and develop skills towards long-term education, employment and independence.
Matt Lyons, who runs the Sunderland sessions, said Louis was a talented footballer who was keen to better himself. He said: “Louis will shine out in South Africa. He was heading down the wrong path when he came to Street League, but now he is an absolute joy to work with.”
Hugh Thompson, of SUNEE Street League, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for these two lads. It is something that every boy dreams about.”
:: SUNEE street league has sessions across the North East, if you would like more information email Hugh at hugh2.thompson@northumbria.ac.uk
The article was in the SUNDAY SUN on 7th March and written by Laura Caroe. To read the full article click here.
news & events
MULTI-SPORT EVENT
TONY BLAIR MEETS SUNEE STREET LEAGUE
