AFC Bournemouth
Steve Cook has been spending time with local school children to discuss the theme of respect and citizenship in society.
Following the captain’s statement regarding the squad no longer taking a knee before fixtures, the workshop was an excellent opportunity to spread the message of respect and speak on the importance of equality.
The club prides itself on its work around diversity and inclusion and, with the team and coaching staff believing that is something defined by much more than a gesture, Cook took the opportunity to highlight its importance.
Hosted by head of community, Steve Cuss, the session brought together young people over Zoom from the club’s girls’ teams, disability sessions and Premier League Kicks programme.
A workshop and presentation on respect was followed by a question-and-answer session with Cook, who is the player ambassador for the project.
Local estate agent, Goadsby, are the official partners of the programme and are often present at the respect and citizenship workshops within schools, which are delivered by the Community Sports Trust every year.
With the help of Goadsby, and role models like Cook, we are able to educate children on the issues surrounding respect, disrespect and how to act if someone is being disrespectful.
Following the session, Paul Stewart, managing director of Goadsby Commercial, spoke with afcb.co.uk and remains impressed by the club’s commitment to delivering the respect message despite the country being in lockdown.
“Steve Cuss and his team are as committed as ever to engage and teach children all about this important life lesson,” he began.
“The delivery is as fun and interactive as ever, the children remain engaged throughout the sessions and, on this occasion, their interest was heightened by the presence of club captain and campaign ambassador, Steve Cook.
“We’d like to thank him for giving up his time to speak with the children.”
Head of community, Steve Cuss, also commented on the afternoon’s session: “During the workshop, we looked at respect both on the pitch and in everyday life.
“It was fantastic for the children to discuss the topic and ask questions directly to Steve Cook, who took the time to give an insight into the importance of the subject within the team and club environment.
“We are grateful for the continued support of partners Goadsby and to Steve for the time he gives as project ambassador.”
