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.