Kai Howe named the Foundation’s Premier League Kicks Community Captain!
AFC Wimbledon Foundation is proud to announce, Kai Howe, as it’s Premiere League Kicks Community Captain for the 2025/26 season, recognising his outstanding contribution to local young people through the Premier League Kicks programme.
At just 23 years old, Kai has become a key figure within the Foundation. Starting his journey on the Kickstart programme shortly after the pandemic, he then progressed to becoming a lead Community Coach, demonstrating a passion for supporting young people across the community and embodying what it means to be a PL Kicks coach.
Now a central part of delivery at Tooting and Mitcham Sports Centre, Kai leads one of the Foundation’s largest Premier League Kicks sessions each week. His ability to connect with participants, particularly those who may struggle to engage with traditional support, has made him a trusted and influential role model.
Premier League Kicks Community Captain initiative celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to use football as a force for good, highlighting the positive impact of community programmes across the country. Kai’s journey perfectly reflects that mission.
Over the past three years, Kai has continued to develop his skills, taking on greater responsibility within sessions and across the coaching team. He plays a key role in maintaining high standards, from safeguarding reporting to supporting fellow coaches with behaviour management and delivery.
His impact extends beyond the pitch. By engaging a wide range of young people, Kai has helped broaden the opportunities available to them, signposting pathways such as local music studios and creative outlets. As someone who grew up locally, he shows participants that it’s possible to carve out new opportunities, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and think differently about their futures.
He provides a powerful example of how dedication and support can open doors, helping young people to see a future beyond perceived limitations.
AFC Wimbledon Foundation CEO, Phil Hastings, said:
“Kai’s down-to-earth nature and ability to communicate with PL Kicks participants is unmatched and he will regularly go above and beyond to mentor young people, particularly hard to reach young people. His ongoing professionalism and support for young people often goes unnoticed and he thoroughly deserves to be recognised as a PL Kicks Community Captain.”
Given out by AFC Wimbledon’s Captain, Jake Reeves & Vice Captain, Ryan Johnson, they applauded Kai for his recognition as Community Captain is a testament to his commitment & care for the community he serves. Kai said:
“It is an honour to win this prestigious award, thank you to AFC Wimbledon Foundation for having the trust and confidence in me to go out into the community and make a positive impact on our young people.”
As he continues to grow within his role, he remains a shining example of the impact that programmes like Premier League Kicks can have, both on participants and those who deliver them.
For more information on the Foundation’s Premier League Kicks programme, visit our website or kick the link below or email enquiries@afcwimbledonfoundation.org.uk.