East Kilbride Pirates awarded funding from Royal Mail's Kits 4 Kids programme
Budding American football players from East Kilbride Pirates U16s are celebrating being awarded a grant for brand-new kits as part of Royal Mail's Kits 4 Kids programme.
The team received the funding as part of the company's drive to support employees' local grassroots teams and help young people get active.
The team was nominated for funding by Willie Brown, a postman in Glasgow who coaches the team and is a Hall of Fame player.
The funding means that the team was able to purchase new practice and playing jerseys, as well as new 'bottom kit' for training and games.
Royal Mail's Kits 4 Kids was launched in response to many requests from colleagues across the country who want to help their local youth sports teams by funding new kit.
Royal Mail and Parcelforce employees were encouraged to nominate their local grassroots youth sports teams to receive grant funding.
In its first year, the programme has received 2,500 nominations from employees and has supported 300 teams so far, with successful clubs chosen randomly by region.
The East Kilbride Pirates are Scotland's leading American football club. Established in 1985, the club is amateur and run by volunteers, who believe that everyone should be able to participate in and enjoy American football in a safe and positive environment – whoever they are and whatever their background.
Greg Sage, Royal Mail's Director of Corporate Affairs and ESG, said: 'Our 130,000 people are at the heart of their communities across the UK, and Royal Mail's Kits 4 Kids gives colleagues the opportunity to show their support and help young people get active in their local area.
'Unwavering pride and passion, forging through all weathers, out in the community – grassroots sport has a lot in common with Royal Mail.
'This exciting new initiative brings the two together and we are delighted to be able to support the East Kilbride Pirates.'
Amanda McDonald, East Kilbride Pirates Club Chair, added: 'The grant from Royal Mail has been a godsend for us in these challenging times, especially because American football uniforms have to be ordered specially from a limited number of suppliers.
'The kids are delighted to wear their new jerseys to their tournaments. Willie was a real hero to apply for this funding – it's typical of how passionate and dedicated he is to the team.'
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