Sports Hub is launched at Ballysally’s Cornfield site

Willie Doey, Holly May McGarry, Leanne Abernethy, Sheila Palmer, ASDA, Adrian Brogan.

The project will benefit young people in the Coleraine area through youth outreach programmes – with the aim of gaining key skills in employment through engagement with sports.

This is the third and final hub to open in Northern Ireland as part of the on-going Asda Foundationand Active Communities Network partnership.

The launch of the Sports Hubs, is the latest activity in the long-standing Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network partnership. In 2014, the Asda Foundation donated £600,000 to the development charity which specialises in supporting youth outreach in areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment. Mayor Michelle Knight-McQuillan was among those who attended the launch along with local ASDA representatives.

Cutting the cake at the Cornfield Project launch are Sean Campbell, Special Olympics silver medallist and Michelle Knight McQuillan (mayor) with Sheila Palmer, ASDA, left.

The launch of the Sports Hubs, is the latest activity in the long-standing Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network partnership. Jim Donnelly, Head of Programmes NI for Active Communities Network commented: “Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009, promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. Our partnership with Asda began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

“Following the £600,000 donation we’ve worked closely with the Asda Foundation and are delighted to be kick-starting our hubs in key areas across Northern Ireland and we hope to help at least 1,500 young people through the service.”