Teenage Kicks: Legendary band’s uplifting message for Saffron Walden footballers

Two of our dedicated neighbourhood policing officers have received a boost after launching Teenage Kicks, an inspiring new initiative in Saffron Walden.

Earlier this season PC Ryan McNamara and PC Glenn Braden brought together a group of young people from the local community to play football.

And just before Christmas, the players got a special message from legendary punk rockers the Undertones, the band behind the iconic track Teenage Kicks.

In the video, the band praised the young footballers for taking part and our officers for encouraging them to play.

Initially, Ryan and Glenn hoped Teenage Kicks would attract six to eight participants. Instead, they’ve seen a consistent turnout of between 12 and 14 players every week.

The response from parents and players has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the real impact of community engagement.

Ryan is Saffron Walden’s town centre officer and he pulled together support for the sessions. He says:

“We had help from a number of people to make these sessions possible and I particularly want to thank Saffron Walden Community Football Club and Plantation Football Club for allowing us to use the facilities at Crabtrees and Uttlesford Community Safety Partnership for funding bibs and footballs.” 

Glenn is Uttlesford Neighbourhood Policing Team’s children and young persons officer. He says:

“We started these football sessions to build trust and create a safe space where young people feel valued.
“Sport is a great way to connect, break down barriers and show that we’re here to support them both on and off the pitch.”

The sessions paused for Christmas but Ryan and Glenn are looking forward to welcoming back the footballers in the New Year.

Ryan says:

“We want to build on our success in strengthening ties between the players and our neighbourhood policing team.”

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