Foundation players welcome trustee Jill Scott home after epic Sport Relief challenge

Foundation of Light proudly joined trustee Jill Scott in celebrating the completion of her 359-mile Sport Relief challenge.

More than 50 players from the Foundation's Female Player Pathway were there to welcome the Lionesses legend to the Stadium of Light as she completed her 'Jill Scott is Coming Home' challenge – a 359-mile cycling and running journey from Wembley Stadium.

Having raised more than £500,000, Jill approached the challenge with the same determination and commitment that defined her football career.

An inspiration to girls across Wearside and beyond, Jill progressed through Foundation of Light programmes before moving on to Sunderland AFC Women and later enjoying successful spells with Everton and Manchester City, as well as earning 170 international caps.

In 2024, Jill returned to the Foundation as a trustee and has since regularly spent time with young people taking part in the charity's programmes.

Returning the favour, participants from Sunderland AFC's official charity were on hand to cheer her through the final stages of the challenge and across the finish line at the Stadium of Light.

Several young people were interviewed by the BBC about what Jill's achievement meant to them, while Foundation of Light staff also attended to cheer her on and assist the Sport Relief team throughout the day.

As part of the Together Through Sport campaign, Foundation of Light is celebrating 'Get Girls Playing' month this June, encouraging more girls across Sunderland and the North East to get involved in sport.

Jill has lent her support to the campaign, and her latest achievement is sure to encourage even more girls to take their first steps into sport.