Queen's Park and Dunns team up for Aware Scotland coaching success
CHILDREN working with charity Aware Scotland were treated to a special football coaching session with a first-team player, thanks to Queen’s Park and club partners Duns Food and Drink.
The wholesalers, who celebrate a century-and-a-half in business this year, are long-time supporters of both AWARE and the Spiders.
The charity helps provide unique experiences, build confidence and engender life-long friendship among those who have experienced trauma or faced adverse challenges – and the latest experience was delivered by Queen’s Park’s long-serving midfielder Louis Longridge alongside Football Development manager John McNeil during the October school break.
The first-team star said: “I have been working with the team at AWARE Scotland for several years now and am privileged to see the great work they do up close.
“The coaching sessions the club lays on for the charity in association with Dunns are always great fun and it’s fantastic to see the young people smile with a ball at their feet.
“It’s a cause important to me, something I really value and enjoy taking part in, and something I look forward to being involved with again.”
John McNeil, Football Development Manager at the QP Foundation added: “It was a pleasure to have the Aware Scotland participants enjoy the session.
“Thanks to Louis for giving up his time to come along, Dunns for their continued support and to the charity for all the great work they do.”
Charity founder, Chris Glancey described the partnership and sessions as life-changing for the young people.
He said: “We’re incredibly grateful to have the continued support of Queen’s Park FC and Dunn’s Food and Drink for a third season running.
“Their partnership has been a real game changer – and life changer – for so many of our young people. Last week, 20 of our young people with diverse needs and abilities took part in a brilliant session, and the team at Queen’s Park, especially John and Louis, were outstanding in making everyone feel included and valued.
“We’re very fortunate to have partners who share our vision of creating meaningful opportunities and incredible memories!”
Julie Dunn, Managing Director, Dunns Food and Drinks said: “We were delighted to take in another fantastic session with the brilliant group from AWARE Scotland. Our collaboration with Queen’s Park and AWARE Scotland continues to thrive for a third season and every session is full of fun and positivity, showcasing the impact we hope to make by being active within our community.”
Queen’s Park head of commercial Kieran Koszary said: “It is always a pleasure to host a positive event and the events with Dunns Food and Drink together with Aware Scotland are always positive.
“It was great to have Louis pitchside to lend his experience and sense of fun to talk about what is involved in being a professional football player and show the fun skills and drills John had lined up for the group.
“The Aware Scotland children were a credit to the charity and themselves and I am looking forward to seeing them again soon as we continue our fantastic partnership between the charity and our good friends at Dunns.”
