efl week of action: highlights

Our Foundation Day at AFC Wimbledon was a standout moment in our EFL Week of Action. It was a celebration that brought together supporters, players, and community participants to showcase the impact of the Foundation’s work both on and off the pitch. Featuring a lively half-time parade, raffle, and a range of matchday activities, the day highlighted the projects that make a real difference across our community. We were also delighted to welcome Mikey Haswell as our new Foundation Ambassador. A former Dons player and now a passionate advocate for our work, Mikey helped shine a spotlight on the Foundation’s mission to create opportunities and foster inclusion

Engaging through sport & play

Thanks to the involvement of our first-team players and foundation coaches, the week saw enthusiastic participation at our holiday football and HAF camps. Young people had the chance to meet Aron Sasu, take part in fun sessions and feel a real part of the Dons family.

Sasu said: “Coming down to Foundation events like this makes you realise how many young people look up to you as a footballer. When I was younger, I used to train here at Southfields, so it brings back good memories to be back here. It’s good to come and experience this session.”

This ties directly into our Football & Sports programmes, which offer football, multi-sports and inclusive sessions designed to build fitness, teamwork and confidence in children and young people.

Empowering girls & women

We celebrated the growth of our girls and women’s football pathways, including our Wildcats programmes (girls aged 5-11) and Women’s Recreational sessions (18+) - giving female participants a welcoming and empowering environment. These sessions not only develop football skills but also promote social connection, leadership and a lifelong love of sport.

We spoke to Eva, 9, at the Wildcats session. She said “I have been playing for 3 years, since I was 6 years old. I only have done individual sports, like swimming & gymnastics but taking part in the Wildcats programme has improved my teamwork, confidence and communication skills – I even show up when its raining!”

Promoting health & wellbeing across ages

Our health programmes were in the spotlight this week too, with sessions such as Active Ageing at the stadium and Walking Football on our 5-a-side pitch delivering both activity and connection for older adults. These align with our Health & Wellbeing programmes, which use football-inspired community activity to promote mental and physical health across all age groups.

Supporting education & opportunity

On the education and employability front, our Stadium Schools sessions and youth ‘Kicks’ evening activities reinforced the message that football is a pathway into education, personal development and future opportunity. Our Education & Employability programmes, like DIVERT, support young people with structured learning, mentoring and experience-building, helping them to thrive on and off the pitch.

Thank you for your support

We couldn’t do this without you, our supporters, volunteers, partners and players all play a part in making these programmes a success. Because of your contributions, we’re building a stronger, healthier and more connected Wimbledon community through the power of football.