Active Local Communities Kitted Out

Local clubs, schools and community organisations are benefiting from new sports kit sponsorships thanks to the Active Local projects in Waltham Cross and Cowley Hill. 

The initiative, which supports grassroots activity and community connection, has recently provided branded Active Local kits to several groups in the area. 

At Hertswood Academy in Cowley Hill, students needed a new football kit but lacked the funds to buy one. Stepping in to help, Active Local Cowley Hill sponsored the kit, giving the school team a professional look while promoting the project’s community message. 

“It’s a great marketing tool for the project and a friendly reminder of our partnership with the school,” said Active Local officer Jane Parker. 

As the programme expanded to include local competitions and experience days, organisers recognised the need for a shared bank of kits. Three sets of branded Active Local football kits have now been made available for community use, already debuting at the recent Watford 6x6 Football Tournament at the Watford FC Training Ground, which brought together youth teams from across the country. 

Both Waltham Cross teams competing in the event consisted of local young people from various community projects, camps and schools. 

“Seeing the boys in the new Active Local kit was amazing,” said Matt Ridley, Active Local Waltham Cross Officer. “Traditionally, they’d be out there in borrowed shirts, but now they’re in a kit representing where they live. You could see the difference straight away, they felt the part and had a real sense of confidence, knowing they were meant to be there. I’ve known some of these lads for years, and moments like that show what Active Local is about: pride, belonging, and community.” 

To further strengthen ties with local organisations, Active Local has also provided branded bibs and sports tops for coaches and deliverers working across the community. 

John from 442 Sports added: 

“We really appreciate the kit and have been making great use of it. It’s great to have a community project that everyone can feel a part of, and the kit just brings it all to life.” 

The new kits have created a real buzz in both Waltham Cross and Cowley Hill, helping to raise awareness of the project and foster a sense of unity through sport. 

The initiative forms part of the Sport England Supported Places work in both areas. To learn more about HSP’s Active Local project and find out how to get involved, visit www.sportinherts.org.uk/active-local.