In 2007 - whilst working at Southwark College as a Sports Lecturer - i was approached by the head faculty to produce something Sports related to celebrate Black History Month. I created a display which sparked my curiosity and I asked the question? "what other great things have black sports men and women done?" I began to research other black sports people in history and created a research archive, but this was jut the beginning. I also created an exhibition and help it in my local library every year since 2008. Also I delivered talks on the history of black sports people. When adding this to my sports therapy work - and other educational sports programmes I was involved in, I decided to create an organisation and coin the phrase "Not Just Football"
This was emphasized for a number of reasons :
1) I have concerns about the stereotype that seemed to be applied to all modern-day young black men who play professional football - and would like to help to change this perception
2) To use sports and physical activity as a focus for social change.
3) To showcase all types of sporting activity - including minority sports and not only professional football.
4) To create educational pathways for individuals who want to work in sports and physical activities.
Below are a list of some of our projects and programmes.
This is an exhibition showcasing some of the great black sports men and women that have existed throughout history in the UK - from an Egyptian Gladiator buried in York (50AD) to Raheem Sterling; our most celebrated black footballer
In conjunction with Genesis Fitness we will be providing educational opportunities for individuals to gain qualifications and training in sports and fitness industry. All qualifications will be accredited via a number of governing bodies including YMCA, and the FA (Football Association) and the EBA (English Basketball Association)
In conjunction with the NHS and The Laurels Healthy Living Centre - we will be involved with facilitating a variety of community exercise and health programmes - including "Escape Pain" which is an NHS run programme to provide exercise support over 50's diagnosed with arthritis via their GP's
Currently we are running a programme to create a pathway for Women and Girls to get into Sports Therapy. We currently have a weekly sports injuries clinic and also an accredited programme to help breakdown barriers and access for women who want to get into professional sports as a physiotherapist or sports therapist but are experiencing difficulty accessing the various networks.
