Rebecca Jones has been appointed Premier League Community Captain, in recognition of her instrumental work in empowering and inspiring young girls in our communities.
Rebecca has worked at the club as a session coach for Arsenal in the community for over 10 years, working across a number of community projects, including the Premier League Kicks programme. Rebecca has also led the girls-only football program for the past eight years, during which time the program has grown into an impressive offering that engages over 700 girls annually, helping to accelerate the women's game and providing valuable pathways for young girls.
The teenage years typically see a significant decline in the number of females staying in the sport, with Rebecca becoming an invaluable role model, who has continually created a sense of pride and belonging for many people in the Arsenal family. As a Community Leader, she will continue to live our best values as we strive to create a winning team, culture, and community.
Rebecca's coaching journey began during her time at London Met University, where she pursued Sports Science, as Arsenal searched the community during the Freshers' Fair for volunteers for Double Club, an innovative educational program combining football and learning.
Recognizing the need for more coaches, Rebecca passionately stepped in to help young people, using her knowledge of the sport to further inspire and educate young people through football. Rebecca then pursued her coaching badges through this programme, gaining both her FA Level 1 and Level 2 certificates.
Since joining our coaching staff in 2014, Rebecca has played an indispensable role, conducting sessions across estates, schools and holiday programmes, reaching a huge number of young people – increasing self-esteem, confidence and transforming lives in our local communities.
In 2015, with the start of the girls programmes, Rebecca took charge of developing this initiative, with the aim of training women and girls, empowering them to become role models themselves and develop true Gunners. Her dedication has also extended to the Premier League Kicks programme, where she works to promote inclusivity and empowerment through sport.
Rebecca was presented with a custom print and banner by Mikel Arteta, Takehiro Tomiyasu and our Soba Real Estate Training Centre, earlier today.
Speaking about the award, Rebecca said: “Receiving the Community Leader Award nominated by my peers is not just an honour, it is a testament to the amazing power of collective recognition and the beauty of shared purpose. To be recognized by those who walk alongside me on my community building journey is truly humbling and very inspiring. I have been at the club for over “Ten years ago and it has been an amazing journey. I love what I do in the community, coaching in the local area is my passion and I am grateful to be able to do this. It is for the club I support.”
As a football club, we exist to perform on the pitch, but our community work and sense of social responsibility are at the heart of our values. Arsenal's Community Department harnesses the power of the club to inspire, motivate and support the communities we serve to thrive and inspire the next generation of role models and talent.
The Premier League is celebrating community captains as part of its 'More Than a Game' campaign, which will be visible at all Premier League matches from 17-26 February to highlight how its investment at all levels of football and funding of club community programs positively impacts lives. Millions.
To learn more, please visit: www.premierleague.com/morethanagame
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