Dr Alan Billings has awarded a grant of £4,500 to Aden Steelers Football Club from his community Grants Scheme.

The club encourages young people in North East Sheffield to take part in sports activities that divert them away from getting involved in anti-social behaviour or crime.

In addition, the club will also be running three sessions designed to help young people in the Burngreave, Fir Vale and Netherthorpe areas, although not exclusively, to:

1. Face down the pressures that might come upon them to become involved in extremism
2. Prevent themselves becoming involved in crime and/or of being victims of crime
3. See positive roles models within their community

The first event on extremism was held on Friday, 29 December at Al Rahman Mosque and was attended by local residents of all ages.  Sheikh Abu Mohamed of Al-Rahman Mosque and Sheikh Mohamed Ali of Al-Taqwa Mosque spoke to the 100 strong audience.

Dr Billings said: “What Aden Steelers are doing here is confronting a serious issue head on.  Whilst coaching football to the local community, they are also engaging with  young people who are at possible risk of being caught up in anti-social behaviour or crime, including extremism.

“Young people are potentially open to being influenced. Aden Steelers are using football as a way of engaging with young people, giving them good advice and putting before them good role models, people in their own community who they will listen to.

“I wish the football club the best of luck in the league this season and look forward to visiting them.”

The football sessions which are open to all are held at the Power League, Woodburn Athletic Stadium on evenings and weekends.

The remaining two sessions on crime and anti-social behaviour and positive role models will be held on 17 January and 21 February at 6.30pm at the Hadfield Institute.  The sessions are suitable for those age 10-16 years and parents are welcome to come along and join in the workshops.

Saleh Alnoud, Aden Steelers Chairman said: ”We have not only given these young people the opportunity to realise their footballing potential but we have also  identified issues affecting these young people and tackled them head on and in a way which suits their specific needs and expectations.

“We are grateful for the support of the SYPCC and we intend to develop this ethos of the club further and take youth guidance through football to another level in the future”

For more information on Aden Steelers Football Club or the event, please email [email protected] or follow on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/adensteelers/?locale2=en_GB