Champions
Unlimited
Our journey with disadvantaged children did not start with a ‘grand vision’ of wanting to change the world. Since our weekly football training started in the Circuit Road area in 2015, it was almost ‘routine’ for us to come in contact with young people who were from single parent homes, are on financial assistance, have challenges in school in terms of attendance, results…etc. It didn’t take too long for us to realise that the economic background, and family structure that these kids come from contributed to the challenges that they faced.
In a recent study discussion, involving 56 social groups in the social service sector published by The Straits Times, a conclusion was made that “while education can help bridge social gaps, not every youth can fully tap its benefits.” It was also noted that “economic, social and cultural differences contribute to a greater variance in academic performance among Singaporean students, compared to elsewhere.”
The Champions Unlimited programme aims to address this gap by facilitating an ecosystem of support and structure in their lives. This is achieved through partnerships with various community agencies, to provide the young people with greater access to academic support, values development, and financial support.
From birth, children from the bottom 20 per cent receive less access to financial and social resources than their peers from other socio-economic status. This gap widens with each year and its effects become evident by the time these children turn seven, when formal education begins.
Program Overview
“Champions Unlimited” is a fully sponsored, holistic value-based football programme designed for children from disadvantaged background to ensure maximum support is provided for these young people to develop into Champions in school and in life. The framework revolves around impacting the three dimensions – Body, Mind and Spirit of the young person
Who can apply?
- Children and youth between the ages of 6 and 9.
- Currently in need of financial assistance
- Loves football and is committed to weekly trainings, studies session, mentoring and competitions.