Cordell's Story

Teenager Cordell was struggling to find an outlet for his love of football. After undergoing a leg amputation following a childhood accident, and the impact this has on his confidence.

We first met Cordell in 2020 through our detached youth work when he was hanging around in the park with his friends. Our Kicks Coach, Kazeem invited him to join our free Premier League Kicks football sessions in Llanrumney, Cardiff.

From the first time he went along, Cordell loved the Kicks sessions and the warm welcome he received. He now attends sessions weekly. Kicks has allowed him to access free physical activity in his local community, improving his physical and mental health. He says this has given him the confidence and structure he needs to thrive in other areas of his life:

"Since joining the Kicks sessions, I haven't looked back. The sessions help me stay active, socially connected and get me out of the house. Without Kicks, I'd probably be sat at home bored or roaming the streets.

"I have struggled with shyness in the past, and my confidence has improved massively since taking part in Kicks. It's helped me communicate more effectively with others, improved my football ability, and made me feel safe and comfortable.

"Thanks to the confidence I have gained, I now plan to find an amputee football team where I can play and develop my skills."