Will Ferry, a Dundee United defender, founded soccer schools in Bolton, Rochdale, and Bury to offer affordable and inclusive football opportunities to children. Driven by his own upbringing in a less affluent area, Ferry aims to create a space where kids can simply enjoy playing football, regardless of skill level.
Recognizing that many existing soccer schools are expensive and elitist, Ferry's initiative provides a low-cost option, charging only a few pounds per hour. He emphasizes that the schools cater to all children, focusing on social interaction and enjoyment rather than solely on developing professional players.
Ferry collaborates with Tom Feighan, a coach from his youth days, to run the schools. His work as an ambassador for Edstart, an organization providing coaching in schools, also influenced this endeavor. The soccer schools offer a vital community service, enabling children to engage in social activities and overcome the social isolation resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The schools' core principle is inclusivity. Ferry explicitly states they don't discriminate based on skill level, believing that everyone deserves a chance to play football and develop social skills, regardless of their potential to become a professional athlete. While acknowledging the possibility of discovering future stars, Ferry prioritizes providing a positive and accessible football experience for all children.