Supporters asked to design ball for Foundation Matchday

Supporters will have the unique opportunity to design a football that will be used by Foundation of Light during their annual showcase matchday at the Stadium of Light.

Not only will fans have the chance to see their creation brought to life with this one-of-a-kind competition, but they will also be championing sustainability and positive social impact.

In a special collaboration with Alive and Kicking, who use the lifecycle of a football to grow and strengthen communities, Sunderland AFC’s official charity are looking for budding artists and designers to help create a brand-new football.

Supporters are invited to submit their design ideas; these will be shortlisted and put to an online vote.

The winning design will then be produced and available to buy from the Beacon of Light.

The football will also be used during the half-time pitch activities when Foundation of Light have their annual dedicated matchday.

Alive and Kicking is the world’s only not for profit football manufacturer. They are known for creating ethical jobs for adults facing disadvantage where employees with no formal work experience or education have access to benefits that are often taken for granted, including a fair wage, health care and a pension scheme.

Using profits made from selling footballs, Alive and Kicking then ensure young people have free and safe access to football and mental health education.

Their footballs are proven to last up to eight times longer than a standard synthetic ball and 10 years of research has shown that each donated ball reaches 45 young people.

Foundation of Light Managing Director, Jamie Wright said: “We’re really looking forward to kicking off this project; not only does the work that Alive and Kicking do align itself with Foundation values, but it’s a really exciting initiative for supporters to get involved with.

“Everyone enjoys getting creative, and the fact that one of the footballs that get designed will actually get produced and used, while raising vital funds for families who need it most, is a great incentive."

CEO of Alive and Kicking, Ben Sadler said: “We are absolutely delighted to be linking up with the Foundation of Light to challenge Sunderland AFC fans to get creative. Not only will supporters have the opportunity to see their ball design made for real, but they will also be creating positive impact too, both at Alive and Kicking and the Foundation. We can’t wait to see what people come up with.”

HOW TO ENTER

Download the ‘Design a Ball’ template to get started - Download Here

All entries for the ‘Design a Ball’ contest can be submitted online via Foundation of Light’s Twitter page (@SAFCFoL), by email to marketing@foundationoflight.co.uk, in-person at the Beacon of Light reception or via post to: ‘Design a Ball’, Beacon of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SN.

Designs can use a maximum of up to three solid colours. 

The closing date for all designs is Friday 22 December. Entries will then be shortlisted and put to an online vote.

Design a Ball Competition Template