A newly established football club in Sheffield is helping young players develop their football skills, confidence and friendships with support from a Community Support Grant from UKSE. 

High Green Lions FC was established this year with the aim of creating a positive, welcoming and supportive environment where children can enjoy football, develop their skills and have fun. 

The club’s Under 10s team is made up of enthusiastic young players who are developing both on and off the pitch, learning about teamwork, respect and commitment while building strong friendships. 

The UKSE Community Support Grant has helped the club purchase new home kits for the Under 10s, giving the team something they can be proud to wear as they represent the newly established club. 

For High Green Lions, the club is about more than football. The team provides children with a sense of belonging while helping them develop discipline, confidence, independence and the ability to work with and support others. 

Parents have also embraced the new club, supporting fundraising activities, social media and the organisation of events behind the scenes. The Under 10s are proud to be the first players to represent High Green Lions FC. 

The team had already been together for two years before the new club was established and previously had the opportunity to travel to Germany for a football tournament, which they went on to win. The club is now planning a trip to Spain in June 2027 to take part in another tournament. 

Looking ahead, High Green Lions hopes to establish itself as club that local families are proud to be part of, with ambitions to provide more children with opportunities to play football and become involved in the club. 

Darran Gregory, Founder of High Green Lions FC, said: “The support of UKSE means so much to us, and we are grateful to them for supporting what we are building here at High Green Lions FC.”

Pete Newton, Regional Executive at UKSE, said: “High Green Lions FC is a great example of the positive impact local community clubs can have on young people. 

“We’re pleased our Community Support Grant has helped the club provide its players with new home kits, and we look forward to seeing the team and the wider club continue to grow.” 

UKSE provides equity investment and loans of up to £1.5m to existing growing businesses, particularly those creating jobs. For further information, please contact the team on 0114 2700 933.