Community Captain Bobby honoured by Sunderland Legend Kevin Ball

Premier League Kicks volunteer Bobby Byers was presented with the Premier League Community Captain award by Sunderland AFC legend Kevin Ball in recognition of his inspiring progress with the Foundation of Light.

Bobby, 18, lives with Autism and Global Development Delay – common in neurodivergent children causing delays to reach milestones such as walking and speech.

He arrived at the Foundation of Light’s Premier League Kicks sessions in Delves Lane after a difficult time in his personal life, including the break-up of his family.

At Kicks, Bobby discovered a welcoming environment where he could take part in activities with others his age while developing important life skills, including cooking, budgeting and self-care.

Foundation of Light staff also provided independent mentoring support to Bobby and his mother, Laura, helping them rebuild their lives after the significant challenges they had faced.

Now in young adulthood, Bobby is starting to work towards independent living. He continues to support the Premier League Kicks programme as a volunteer and is involved in other Foundation sessions, including hosting quizzes for the Over 55s Wear Together group in Stanley.

“Coming over and meeting Bobby to present him with his award from the Premier League has made my evening,” former Black Cats captain Ball said.

“The most enjoyable part was seeing how it made him feel and the fact he was very grateful for it.

“Having heard about his story, you do feel for him, but the most important thing I could see tonight is how strong he is. You can see he is on the onwards and upward trend all the time.”

The Community Captain award forms part of the Premier League’s ‘More Than A Game’ campaign, recognising people at the heart of Premier League-funded community programmes.

More Than A Game is highlighting how football can drive change through education, improving wellbeing, and creating opportunities for those who need it most.