Met police officers are taking on a group of young adults in a one-off football match at Bromley FC’s stadium this evening.
The event, aimed at improving relationships between the force and community, will see the Violent Crime Task Force (VCTF) play Yarnee FC, who hail from Hackney and Tower Hamlets, at Hayes Lane.
They were brought together through KickOff@3, an initiative which attempts to divert young people from violence and criminal activity through the use of sport and music.
Benjamin Gotts, HQ Operations (VCTF), said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to further connect and engage with the communities we work within.
“With violent crime being a key priority of the MPS, the opportunity to support diversion and intervention initiatives is extremely welcomed and I can’t think of a better way than with KickOff@3, Yarnee FC and Bromley Football Club.
“As VCTF are debuting our team, we just hope we can match Yarnee’s fitness levels!”
This week is also National Inclusion Week, an annual initiative that brings together all areas of the workplace and the community.
Yarnee FC, the KickOff@3 National Champions, are looking forward in a professional venue with a full match day experience being provided by Bromley Football Club, who are working to create their own outreach programme.
Yarnee FC Founder, Inyanne Tamijarassane, said: “The team are absolutely buzzing that they’ve got this opportunity and we can’t wait to show people all the talent we have.
“We built this brand from nothing and come from humble beginnings so this is very exciting and will be a great experience for us.”
KickOff@3 ambassador Charlton Athletic’s Jess King will also be there to cheer on both teams.
The match kicks off at 7.45 at Hayes Lane. To attend, register for free tickets at www.vctf-v-yarneefc.eventbrite.co.uk, entering the password Football2021. Tickets are limited.
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