Hi!

My son, Joshua 11 is swapping his football boots for his hiking boots. Myself and Joshua, along with our dog, Jerry Lee and my brother are walking the length of Hadrian's wall between Monday 28th July and Saturday 2nd August. We are looking to raise money to support Joshua's football club and team, Scawthorpe Scorpions. Joshua plays for the U11 soon to be U12 team as one of their goalkeepers.

The official National trail takes you from Bowness on Solway to Walls end and is 84 mile but having walked it before with diversion's along the way for the path and for accommodation reasons you walk well over this, last time the total distance was 96 mile. Josh will be doing the distance in his kit minus the football boots!

Having spoken to our coach, Grant, about what youth football gives to the kids the funding is so important. He explained Grassroots football is not just about the football, its about so much more...

Physical health: It helps children stay active, develop motor skills, coordination and general fitness in a fun and engaging way.

Mental wellbeing: Playing regularly boosts confidence, (this is something that has really come on for Joshua with football and something he has had to build), reduces stress and encourages positive mental health through teamwork and enjoyment.

Social Skills: Kids learn to communicate, co-operate and build friendships. It teaches values like respect, inclusion and teamwork.

Community and belonging: it connects kids with their local community, giving them a sense of belonging and pride.

In short, grassroots football lays the foundation not just for athletic skills, but for life.

Whatever we raise will be split equally between my sons team and the club so please give what you can. Thankyou from myself, Joshua and Jerry Lee