Leeds United Academy stars Charlie Crew and Harvey Vincent recently attended a King’s Trust workshop delivered by the Leeds United Foundation.

Partnering with the club’s official charity, the scheme offers a weeklong coaching course allowing young people to study for the I Can Lead Award and continues the close partnership between the Foundation and King’s Trust that has run for over 10 years.

As part of the Get Started with Football Coaching Programme, Crew and Vincent dropped by to share their experiences, advice and encouragement to those looking to break into the sport.

Speaking at the event, Wales international Crew explained about the first team game, offering an insight into elite level performance.

“I think leadership is firstly a very important thing, especially in and around football,” the midfielder said. “You need people to take leadership, set examples and motivate others.

“So, I would say them three straight away are really important. And then, like I said to the group, having that enthusiasm as a leader. I think it is infectious and will only help the people around them.”

Under-21s’ forward Vincent added: “It is really important that we come back and show what we do day to day and people might be interested in the insight of what we do.

“Obviously they love football as well so it is lovely to be able to relate to the same thing. We are both there to enjoy football. It is great to come and see the community and what goes on in these areas around Leeds. It was really enjoyable.”

Nigel Thewlis, Head of Quality Assurance & Education, then explained: “It was great to have two aspiring U21s players with Charlie and Harvey who shared their experiences of playing professional football within that elite environment. We were privileged to have them as this is vital ingredient to the success of our work and these visits are an important, integral part of our achievements.

“The community work that the players take part in plays a vibrant and dynamic role in enhancing the well-being of individuals we encounter and only fosters stronger, more resilient communities through support and empowerment.”

Events like these are also crucial for the players’ own progression, helping them to become more vocal and confident, and remaining connected with the local communities, according to Academy Player Care Lead Callum Williams.

“As with everything we do with the lads, developing leadership within the academy is about far more than preparing them for football; it is about shaping young people who represent the club with pride, responsibility and integrity.

“Giving our players the opportunity to engage with the community and put those leadership values into practice at events like today is a vital part of their development. It helps them recognise the positive influence they can have and reinforces the importance of leading by example, both on and off the pitch.”

For more information about future courses, please contact YHoutreach@kingstrust.org.uk.