Ali Adnan’s story encapsulates the inspirational impact of Premier League Kicks. Over a decade ago, Ali was a participant on the League’s flagship community programme, benefitting from free football coaching and mentoring.
As many participants do, he was then encouraged to volunteer on the programme and soon became a casual member of staff. In time, Ali took on a full-time coaching position and today he leads Premier League Kicks for Leicester City in the Community.
In his role Ali helps to guide young leaders on a similar journey to him, showing them what they can aspire to.
To celebrate Ali’s impact through Premier League Kicks, Leicester City named him as their Community Captain – recognition given to people at the heart of League-funded programmes who make a difference within their local community.
Ali receives his Community Captain award
Foxes manager Ruud van Nistelrooy awarded Ali with his accolade in a surprise presentation at the club’s training ground.
“Well done,” Van Nistelrooy told him. “You’ve done so much great work and we all appreciate that. You’re doing excellent work for your community and influencing people in a great way, so thank you so much. Keep it up.”
“You as well,” Ali said with a grin, before later telling his colleagues: “I didn’t expect [this award], and didn’t expect Ruud to come in. He’s a busy man!”
Ali received his recognition as part of the Premier League's More Than A Game celebration, which highlights the positive impact of League investment into communities and all levels of football.
Premier League Kicks supported more than 2,100 young people across Leicestershire during the 2023/24 season, and over 105,000 people across England and Wales. The Premier League has invested more than £91 million into the programme to date, delivering over 1 million hours of activity through 93 professional clubs.
What is More than a game?
More than a game highlights the positive impact of Premier League investment into communities and all levels of football. The League is investing £1.6 billion into wider football, the grassroots game and communities between 2022 and 2025.
This includes funding for community projects run by 164 professional and non-league clubs, supporting people of all ages who need it most, as well as providing much-needed funding to non-league, grassroots and women's clubs to enhance stadium facilities for players and fans.
