Leeds community junior football club founder launches 'Kit for Kids' appeal

Saxton Football Club in Richmond Hill has become a focal point for youngsters in the inner city community since father of two Jonny Nixon set it up three years ago.

Jonny, who does not have a football coaching background, wanted to give his children and other youngsters in the area the opportunity to get involved in sport and make new friends, instead of spending all their time indoors on games consoles.

Before Covid restrictions, more than 30 boys and girls aged five to 18 would meet up twice a week on playing fields next to Ellerby Lane to train and play friendly games.

Leeds United Foundation provides a professional coach to train youngsters every week, where possible due to Covid restrictions

Jonny, who works full time as a painter and decorator, said some children do not have basic training kit or boots and he has launched a 'Kit for Kids' appeal.

Jonny - who runs the club with his nephew Jack Stanley and friend Stuart Stephen - is appealing for all types of training gear, but said boots are needed most.

Leeds City FC has donated some kit to the appeal and Jonny is asking if other amateur football clubs across Leeds can help out.

Jonny said: "There could be kids that want to join a football team, but they haven't got boots and the right gear and that may be holding them back.

"We want to be able to provide the equipment they need to give these kids a chance."

Jonny said Leeds City Council's youth services helped out after he set up the club in 2018.

They put him in touch with Leeds United Foundation, the official charity for Leeds United.

Leeds United Foundation has supported Saxton FC for the past two years and continues to provide regular professional coaching for young players.

Jonny said: "That is what has helped the group really take off. It has been brilliant.

"They have provided opportunities for the kids. I have had tickets to take kids to Leeds games.

Jonny said his youngest son Brooklyn, 17, got interested in coaching through playing at Saxton FC and learning from the professional coaches.

Leeds United Foundation has now taken Brooklyn on as an apprentice community football coach through the Premier League Kicks programme.

Jonny said: "He hasn't started yet, because of lockdown, but he has got an 18 month apprenticeship."

Jonny added: "We can't praise Leeds United Foundation enough for the opportunities they are providing, they have been absolutely fantastic.

"The community work they do all over Leeds is incredible."

Jonny said new players - boys and girls aged five to 18 - are always welcome at the club.

Rich Foye manages Leeds United Foundation's Premier League Kicks Programme, which is aimed at using sport to inspire and motivate young people.

Rich said Leeds United Foundation employs around 50 full and part time coaches who help support players of all ages in communities across the city.

Rich said: "It is absolutely inspiring what Jonny is doing."

Anyone who can help with donating kit - or anyone interested in joining the club - is asked to email Jonny at [email protected]