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Kick Start FC Founder honoured

at Pride Of Andover Awards

Everyone at Kick Start FC was incredibly proud to see our founder, Michael Cunningham, recognised at this year's Pride Of Andover Awards, receiving an award in the Sports category for his outstanding contribution to the local community.

The Pride of Andover Awards is an annual celebration that brings together businesses, charities, community groups, and local residents to recognise the individuals and organisations making a positive difference across the town. The awards shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to support others, strengthen communities, and create lasting impact.

For Kick Start FC, this year's event was particularly special.

Michael attended the ceremony alongside Co-Founder Jessica Cunningham, where he was recognised for his dedication to supporting individuals facing social isolation, mental health challenges, and other barriers through the power of sport and community engagement.

Since founding Kick Start FC, Michael has been passionate about using football as a tool for positive change.

What began as a vision to create a safe and supportive environment for people struggling with their mental health has grown into a thriving community organisation that supports hundreds of individuals each year through Football Therapy sessions, mentoring programmes, wellbeing initiatives, fundraising events, and community projects.

Through these programmes, participants are given opportunities to improve their mental wellbeing, build confidence, develop friendships, and reconnect with their communities in a positive and inclusive environment.

The recognition received at the Pride of Andover Awards reflects not only Michael's commitment to this mission but also the life-changing impact these initiatives continue to have across the local area.

The awards evening brought together an inspiring collection of individuals and organisations who are helping to make Andover a stronger, more connected community.

Guests heard powerful stories of resilience, determination, and community spirit, while special guests Jordan Wylie, best known from Channel 4's Hunted, and local entrepreneur Tommy Gentleman helped make the evening a memorable occasion.

The event served as a reminder of the incredible work taking place throughout the town and the difference that dedicated individuals can make when they are passionate about helping others.

While Michael was the recipient of the award, he was quick to recognise that the achievement reflects the efforts of many people.

Kick Start FC's success is built on the commitment of its volunteers, the support of local partners, the generosity of fundraisers and sponsors, and the courage of the service users who engage with our programmes every week.

Every person who contributes to the organisation plays an important role in creating the supportive and welcoming community that Kick Start FC has become.

This award is therefore not only a recognition of one individual, but a celebration of everyone who has helped shape the organisation and support its mission.

Receiving recognition at the Pride of Andover Awards is both a proud milestone and a source of motivation for the future.

As Kick Start FC continues to grow, we remain committed to creating opportunities that improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and strengthen communities through sport, education, and meaningful connection.

With exciting new projects, partnerships, and community initiatives on the horizon, we look forward to continuing our work and supporting even more people across the region.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Pride of Andover Awards for this incredible honour and to everyone who continues to support Kick Start FC. Your encouragement, belief, and commitment enable us to make a positive difference in the lives of so many people every day.

Together, we will continue to create opportunities, inspire change, and build stronger communities.