From left: Matthew Lunney, Sales and Marketing Manager at Bargate Homes; Phil Parsons, CEO of Southampton FC; Mark White, Managing Director of Bargate Homes.
Published: September 6, 2023 | Updated: 27th October 2023
Hampshire housebuilder Bargate Homes is backing grassroots youth football as they become principal partner of Southampton FC’s Soccer Schools programme.
Over the next two years, the company will provide funded places on the programme for children aged 5-13 who are eligible for free school meals.
There they’ll get the chance to hone their skills under the quality tutelage of FA-accredited coaches.
Mark White, Managing Director of Bargate Homes, said: “Becoming a Southampton FC principal partner marks a milestone in our own growth journey.
“Enriching the place we all call home is at the heart of our ethos.
“The collaborative opportunities this partnership offers will enable us to step up our engagement with local people across Hampshire.
“I’m incredibly proud to announce the funded Soccer School places for children who may otherwise not have had the opportunity to take part, and look forward to seeing the positive ripple effect extend far beyond the pitch.”
Charlie Boss, CCO of Southampton FC, added: “Securing Bargate Homes as a principal partner is a great signing for Saints.
“They have a long track record of investing in local communities and share our commitment to driving positive change.
“Together, we will continue to make a significant investment in grassroots sport and help create thriving communities that epitomise unity, progress and inclusivity.”