Harry Kane launches ‘Pledge for Positivity’ alongside Steph Houghton
England Men’s football team captain Harry Kane launched the FA’s ‘Pledge for Positivity’ alongside England Women’s captain Steph Houghton, according to The Mirror.
The pair wrote open letters to both parents and spectators of youth football asking them to commit to creating a positive environment at matches across the nation. The program was launched to encourage those on the side-lines to support the players involved and also to respect referees, coaches, and other spectators (h/t The Mirror).
The England captains are the first two people to make this pledge and are encouraging others to do the same.
The program comes into being after a recent survey found out that 88 per cent of grassroots participants cited parents as the main reason behind the lack of respect in grassroots football.
The pair also penned a joint letter to parents and spectators, which was later painted into the touchlines at their childhood clubs. Harry Kane’s is Ridgeway Rovers in Essex while Steph Houghton’s is Boldon Girls in South Shields (h/t The Mirror).
Speaking after the pledge, Kane, a parent of two, spoke of the responsibility that the people on the sidelines have to ensure children enjoy playing the beautiful game (h/t The Mirror).
“As parents and spectators, it is our job to make sure that children enjoy playing football.
He spoke of the importance of having support and encouragement given from the stands and the adverse effect intimidation and pressure can have on children. Kane expressed his delight in signing the pledge and urged others to follow in his wake (h/t The Mirror).
“I’d like to encourage as many people as possible to do the same.”
Houghton also spoke in a similar tone, advocating the importance of cultivating a positive atmosphere where kids can enjoy playing the sport. The letter penned by the two captains can be read here.
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Kane is currently out injured after damaging his hamstring at St Mary’s in January. He is recovering ahead of schedule and should make it in time for the European Championships in the summer.
