AFC Wimbledon Foundation inspired Rachele to begin her volunteering journey.

14 year old Rachele joined one a PE session facilitated by AFC Wimbledon Foundation when she was in primary school and she has begun volunteering with the Foundation.

The sessions, lead by Football Development Officer Scott Lockwood, are designed to help children enjoy sport and inspire active lifestyles. Since then, Rachele has joined a variety of Foundation programmes, including Football for All, Kicks and our Holiday Courses.

She is now also a regular volunteer for AFC Wimbledon Foundation, supporting the Family Zone on a matchday, where her whole family now attend as season ticket holders.

The provsions that AFC Wimbledon provide for their local community have had such an impact on Rachele, that she got her brother Etore involved where he is going from strength to strength, attending and and playing in every session possible.

She exclaims: “I help out now because of the help they gave me and watching my brother play gives me joy.”

Scott explained “Our sessions have provided an environment where Rachele can be herself and thrive, which has also inspired her to support future generations as a volunteer coach” adding that “we are thrilled that Rachele wants to engage and inspire local children, helping us support and deliver positive change in our community.”

AFC Wimbledon’s Family Zone provides a fun, safe and inclusive environment for young people, children and their families, aimed at enriching the matchday experience. Activities include an inflatable football target, mini football matches, face painting, colouring, lego and much more! Rachele helps bring this to life, providing energy and enthusiasm to make games at Plough Lane a memorable experience for young children, especially if they are attending for the first time.