Norbury High students were invited to attend the opening of Stormzy’s Merky FC HQ on 2nd May 2024.
The students from our secondary academy, who were accompanied by Miss Barnaby, Mrs St Aubyn-Williams and Miss Omari, received complimentary football kits including boots and personalised T-shirts which they wore during coached drills at the new centre. Following lunch, each was presented with a goodie bag, water bottle and hat.
Merky FC HQ is a purpose-built football and community centre which has been set up by local musician Stormzy with help from sports and leisure giant adidas to ‘nurture the voices of tomorrow.’ Along with football pitches and changing areas, the facility features a recording studio, conference room and EA Sports gaming hub.
The centre has been built on the existing Selhurst Sports Arena following investment from adidas. The space, which will continue to host events and educational activities, is managed by the Communities First Foundation – a charity which works with children and young people in sport and the creative arts as well as with the wider community.
The Merky FC careers initiative was launched by Stormzy and adidas two years ago to impact change in the football industry off the pitch in which Black people are underrepresented. The programme has so far helped 60 young people find training and placements at Arsenal, Fulham, ITV, Manchester United, the Scottish FA, Sky Sports and other major employers.
With Croydon currently the borough with the highest number of under 18s in the capital, the Merky FC HQ will provide a much-needed community space that young people like our students will be able to enjoy and make use of for years to come.
