Scotland star Ryan Christie is right behind new free football for kids plan
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Inverness-born footballer Ryan Christie has backed a new free football initiative for kids.
The project is an expansion of McDonald’s and the Scottish FA national ‘Fun Football’ programme which aims to provide more than 10 million hours of football opportunities to over one million children by 2026.
The programme includes 49 free football events and festivals per year which will benefit thousands of local children in the region, thanks to a collaboration between two Highland-based McDonald’s franchisees and the Scottish FA.
Girls and boys of all abilities will be given access to the sport, removing any cost barrier involved in taking part.
McDonald’s franchisees Craig Duncan and Iain Fyfe have pledged £40,000 over the next two years to ensure young people have free access to the fortnightly events and monthly festivals.
Speaking on the importance of McDonald’s Fun Football, Mr Christie, who has 35 caps for the Scotland national team, said: “There was a similar programme that I took part in growing up, so I know how much kids look forward to these weekends.
"Grassroots football is hugely beneficial for communities, and I hope these festivals will help youngsters enjoy the beautiful game.”
The programme is for primary school-aged children and includes a flagship event in April at the Caledonian Stadium, complete with inflatables.
McDonald’s Fun Football aims to increase participation opportunities for kids, create stronger club links, develop a volunteer workforce, and provide a fun and safe environment.
“I played in the same festivals as Ryan when I was at school, so I can also attest to how beneficial they were to me as a boy – they’d be the talk of the school in the weeks leading up,” said McDonald’s Nairn franchisee, Iain Fyfe.
The first event will take place in Inverness’s Bught Park this weekend.
“I am delighted to be able to help fund McDonald’s Fun Football in the Highlands, offering a huge number of kids from a diverse range of backgrounds the opportunity to spend their weekends participating in sport and making new friends.”
Craig Duncan, who has nine McDonald’s restaurants across the Highlands and Grampian, said: “McDonald’s has always been a supporter of grassroots football, so I approached the Scottish FA to see how we could team up and take it to the next level in this region.
“They were delighted to get on board with us, and it’s fantastic to see the hard work everyone has put in come to fruition. Community is at the heart of everything we do.”
Graeme Sutherland, regional manager – north at the Scottish FA, added: “Its fantastic news that McDonalds has agreed to support this programme across the Highlands and Moray.
“Both Craig and Iain really understand how important community football and events such as this are, and to be able to ensure this is offered at zero cost is excellent.
“We look forward to developing our longstanding partnership and benefitting thousands of children across the North.”
