Hull FC Community Foundation’s ‘Play2Potential’ programme is connecting communities and helping local youngsters make new friendships through the power of sport.

Funded by Humber Violence Prevention Partnership in a bid to decrease crime rates amongst young people, the Community Foundation run two separate sessions per week, helping engage local youngsters through football and basketball activities.

Over 150 local youngsters have engaged with Play2Potential since it was launched almost two years ago, with the Community Foundation’s impact in the area being felt.

Edmond, who is one of the participants at the Friday evening sessions, said: “The basketball games helps me to get better at the sport, but I think it is also helping me learn to socialise and feel more comfortable when meeting new people.

“There is nothing else like this available in the area, so I am really grateful to the Community Foundation for running the session. I would say that I have met some of my best friends through coming along to these sessions,” he added.

Also attending regularly on Friday nights is Joseph, who hopes to be able to take the skills he has learned with the Community Foundation into playing for a local basketball team.

“There’s nothing like basketball! One day, I hope I can put the skills to good use and join a team,” he said.

“It gives you a chance to show other people how well you can play. You can also learn some skills off other people as well.

“I think the most important thing is that it is free. There aren’t many places in Hull that let you play on their basketball court with your friends for free, so I think Play2Potential is doing a great job.”

In addition to the Friday evening basketball sessions that run at the Allam Sport Centre (6-7pm), there is also a Monday evening football session that runs at the Octagon Centre (6-7pm), just a stone’s throw away from the University of Hull location.

Ryan Gibbons, the Community Foundation’s Youth Diversionary Lead, said: “Both Joseph and Edmond have been coming along to Play2Potential ever since we launched the programme a couple of years ago.

“I love the camaraderie between the group. The encouragement the guys show each other is amazing to see. They make everyone feel welcome, regardless of their level of experience or background.

“It’s been amazing to have over 150 different people through the door across the 18 or so months. We’re really proud of the impact we are able to have on these individuals.”

For more information on Play2Potential, please email ryan.gibbons@hullfc.com.