Darren has been at Cardiff City FC Community Foundation for four years, working across our Premier League Kicks and Inclusive Kicks sites in Blaenau Gwent, Merthyr Tydfil, Ebbw Vale, and Abertillery. He has become an integral member of the team in that area of South Wales, helping to establish and strengthen Cardiff City FC connections within local communities.

Darren is one of more than 100 people across England Wales being celebrated through the Premier League More Than A Game Campaign for their work in Premier League funded community programmes. Darren was selected as Cardiff City’s Community Captain because of his significant impact on participants and their families in Merthyr.

Premier League Kicks uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential, in some of the most high-need areas in England and Wales. Inclusive Kicks is a disability football programme that improves wellbeing, develops confidence and increases social interaction. Through these free sessions, Cardiff City FC Community Foundation aim to ensure everyone is given the opportunity to experience the benefits of taking part in regular sport.

Coincidentally, these weekly sessions don't just benefit the wellbeing of our participants, but also Darren as a leader and an active member of the community. Darren views these sessions as a personal release, supporting his own mental health while enriching the lives of others.

Through Darren's passion for community, he's single handedly built a sense of belonging, purpose, and togetherness at Merthyr Kicks, creating a true family atmosphere. The site has flourished under his leadership, growing the site into a highly engaged session, week on week. Thanks to Darren’s encouragement, some participants even travel up to 40 miles round trip just to attend these sessions once a week.

Beyond the weekly football sessions, Darren also commits his time and efforts to their personal development, providing them and their families with unique opportunities such as social events, stadium tours and wide access to facilities, resources and workshops through Premier League Kicks.

Darren has also been responsible for providing life-changing experiences for the children, including the opportunity to leave Wales for the very first time. His efforts have also led to other unforgettable moments like mascot appearances at first-team fixtures, meeting of first team players, Christmas parties and inclusive football festivals for the group.

For Darren, this role is more than just a job, he views it as a vocation. His dedication has turned this Premier League Inclusive Kicks site into more than just a football programme – it’s a community, within a community.

Jamie Thomas, Premier League Kicks Coordinator at Cardiff City FC Community Foundation said:

"Darren is a true asset to the Community Foundation and an incredible role model for the young people and families he supports. His passion, warmth, and genuine care has had a lasting impact, making everyone around him feel valued, supported, and motivated.

We’re fortunate to have Darren on our team and on behalf of all the young people, families, partners, and guardians, we’d like to express our heartfelt thanks.

It’s people like Darren who truly make a difference—to change lives and transform communities. The impact Darren has on others will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. Thank you, Darren, for everything you do."