No Room For Racism tournament

The Aston Villa Foundation hosted a No Room for Racism tournament ahead of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against AFC Bournemouth to mark the initiative.

Youth Engagement Officer Ian Robinson organised the event at the club’s Inner City Academy, inviting teams from the Manchester United Foundation, LFC Foundation, Nottingham Forest Community Trust, Birmingham City Foundation and the Albion Foundation, as well as other local West Midlands clubs.

The team hosted a workshop on racism where those present could sign a pledge to stand against racism, with Caribbean food also served at the tournament which was won by the LFC Foundation.

Ian has now been working for the Aston Villa Foundation for 15 years and this Black History Month, we are celebrating his time here and the massive impact he has had on our local community.

Reflecting on his journey at the club, Ian said: “The young people who were coming to Premier League Kicks sessions before, some of them have got jobs now working with us and they know what we require from young people.

“That’s the change I’ve seen, the coaches now know what kids want and can relate to them as well.

“Our biggest achievement was one man becoming a police officer, and that just shows the impact this programme can make.”

Here’s to 15 more years, Ian!

Aston Villa is once again proud to show its strong support for No Room For Racism.

All Premier League fixtures between October 19-27 will be dedicated to the No Room For Racism initiative, highlighting the ongoing work carried out to tackle discrimination and promote diversity within football. 

Over these match rounds, clubs and the Premier League are coming together to celebrate how diversity makes football stronger and reiterating their collective commitment to ensuring everyone feels welcome across all areas of the game.

Aston Villa proudly displayed its support for No Room For Racism at last weekend’s Premier League fixture against Fulham at Craven Cottage, and will do so again for Saturday’s home clash against AFC Bournemouth, while Aston Villa Women continue to take the knee ahead of all matches.

Matches will display No Room For Racism messaging throughout the stadium as well as online, while players will also take the knee ahead of kick-off before each fixture to show their unity against racial discrimination.

For more information, visit www.premierleague.com/noroomforracism.

Football brings together communities and cultures, this diversity makes the game stronger. Football is inclusive for all, it’s everyone’s game.