For this year's "Kick it Out" week of action Preston North End Football Club got involved in setting up activities with local schools and working with the community.
As part of sending out the message to society that racism is not and will not be tolerated, the PNE squad visited seven different schools in the Preston area. During the visits, the children had an opportunity to put some difficult questions to the players about their views on racism and if they had ever encountered or witnessed any problems.
The players were very honest in their answers and did not shy away from any questions. They gave their honest opinions and the children and the schools really enjoyed it.
Also as part of the community initiative, the Preston North End Fans Team, managed by Steve Cowell, played a talented 11-a-side team from the Deepdale area called "The Canaries" managed by Junaid Kalang. For this special occasion, Steve even put on the old boots!
The game was played in an excellent spirit and both the teams thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The game finished 2-2 but the score did not reflect the game. In the first half, the Canaries took a 2-0 lead and should have been ahead by at least three or four.
However, an inspirational team talk by Steve at half time got the fans team going and it was a totally different side which ran out in the second half. The team pulled two goals back and could have even gone on to win the game.
After the game, both managers had only good things to say, Junaid said, "The team really enjoyed themselves and would like to get involved in any future projects that the club might do". While The Fans Team boss commented, "The game was played in the spirit that it should be played in, both teams were excellent and I was really impressed with the passing and the fitness of the other team. I am hoping to build a link with the club and hopefully some of their players can play for our team".
When Preston North End played Middlesbrough FC, we had some special guests from Deepdale Infants Primary School. Before the game, 14 lucky pupils were chosen to carry the 'Kick it Out' banner. For both the pupils and staff this was unique experience.
Teachers Ann Atkinson and Tracy Wren from Deepdale Infants said, "Being involved with PNE has meant a great deal to the children of Deepdale Infant School, as they have been able to share their experiences with their families and friends. Their experiences on the day ranged from excitement, nervous, proud, belonging and their enthusiasm never wavered even when it rained!!!
"Being part of 'Kick it Out' is the first step in helping children understand that racism can change. As a school we are delighted to have PNE working with our children and also being a part of the school".
The pupils who took part in the event really enjoyed themselves and six-year-old Owais said, "I enjoyed watching the football match and cheering for North End! It was great when PNE scored."
Aliyah, also six years old, said, "I liked it when they scored! I liked walking out on the pitch because I could see myself on the big screen."
The day started off with all the children at pitch side. It was nice to see the excitement on all the children's faces as they watched the players warm up only metres away. Then the time came for all the children to step onto the pitch and make their way to the centre circle where they were held the banner for 'Kick It Out'.
Ann said "All the staff and children from Deepdale Infants School had a very enjoyable day and would like to thank Preston North End for the experience and we are looking forward to working with the club in the near future".
