Sport

Footballing fun

27 June 2019
3 Min Read

New community pitch opened in memory of Ugo Ehiogu An all-weather, small-sided football pitch has been created at Seven Sisters Primary School, in memory of Tottenham Hotspur’s former U23’s coach, Ugo Ehiogu, who passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest, in April 2017. The pitch will provide opportunities for young people in Haringey to play […]By

Having a kick about with Kyle Walker-Peters  Credit Tottenham Hotspur Foundation

An all-weather, small-sided football pitch has been created at Seven Sisters Primary School, in memory of Tottenham Hotspur’s former U23’s coach, Ugo Ehiogu, who passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest, in April 2017.

The pitch will provide opportunities for young people in Haringey to play football in a safe space; with Seven Sisters Primary School having their P.E lessons there, and Tottenham Hotspur Foundation using the new ground to deliver Premier League Kicks sessions for local children.

The Ugo Ehiogu Mini Pitch was officially opened by Ugo’s wife, Gemma Ehiogu with the support of Kyle Walker-Peters, who worked under Ugo as an U23 player, Head Teacher at Seven Sisters Primary School, Emma Murray, and representatives from the Premier League, Football Association, Football Foundation, Tottenham Hotspur Academy and Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.

In addition to opening the pitch, Gemma also unveiled a mural of Ugo, which was created by a local artist, Grant Kennedy.

Gemma Ehiogu said: “Ugo was always passionate about ensuring every child had access to play sport in a safe space. This new facility will help youngsters in Haringey have more opportunities to play football, meet new friends, help improve their physical and mental health, and improve levels of anti-social behaviour in the area.

“It’s a fitting way to remember him, and I hope the facility brings huge joy to children living in this area.” Following the opening ceremony, staff from the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation, with the help of Kyle, delivered a Premier League Kicks session for pupils at Seven Sisters Primary School.

Emma Murray said: “Here at Seven Sisters Primary School we are dedicated to providing our students with access to as much physical education as possible.

“This new facility is going to allow our children to play sport every day, and we would like to thank all funding partners for their generosity and support. We are delighted to be working with Tottenham Hotspur to open the facility up to other youngsters in the local community who will benefit from using it.”

The opening of the Ugo Ehiogu Mini Pitch, was supported by Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, and was made possible as a result of investment from the Football Foundation, as well as Side-On, a charity set up in Ugo’s memory, and donations from parents and teachers from Seven Sisters Primary School.

Kyle Walker-Peters said: “It’s been a real privilege being at the opening of the mini pitch. I wish I had some- thing like this when I was growing up– it’s a fantastic facility for children in Haringey.

“Ugo had a massive impact on my life and my playing career, and without him I wouldn’t have improved as a player. I owe a lot to him, so it’s been brilliant being here to remember him.”

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