The Scottish FA is delighted to announce Street Soccer Scotland as our new Official Charity Partner.
Founded in 2009 by David Duke, Street Soccer Scotland uses football-inspired training and personal development as a medium to empower people affected by social exclusion.
They run more than 60 different projects across Scotland – targeting a diverse demographic – with more than 2,500 current registered players following in the footsteps of more than 25,000 who have previously benefited from their support.
In addition, most of the charity’s staff have come through their programmes, with lived experience of some of the issues they tackle through football, such as addiction and homelessness.
David’s own story is an inspirational one, having been inspired to set up Street Soccer Scotland after featuring for Scotland in the Homeless World Cup.
He also counts current Scotland Men’s National Team Captain Andy Robertson as an ambassador.
Scottish FA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell said: “We speak regularly about the everyday Power of Football and the impact the game makes in communities across Scotland.
“No-one better exemplifies that than David Duke and the dedicated team behind Street Soccer Scotland.
“David might never have kicked a ball professionally, but there’s no doubt he’s a Scottish football success story that we should all be proud of.
“We are honoured that he has agreed to speak at our reception in the Scottish Parliament tonight about the Power of Football, and this agreement has been another highlight in our inaugural Week of Football as part of the association’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
“Street Soccer Scotland has clearly helped improve the lives of thousands in Scotland. It’s been heartening and humbling to learn more about their work, and we look forward to providing them with additional support in a number of areas through this partnership.”
David Duke, Founder and CEO of Street Soccer Scotland, added: “We are delighted to be named as the Scottish FA’s Official Charity Partner.
“Since 2009 we’ve harnessed the Power of Football to create positive change in the lives of adults and young people across Scotland.
“The Scottish FA has a commitment to ensuring football is everyone’s game and we are proud to be part of that.
“This new partnership will allow us to reach new audiences, showcase our mission and projects, and create new opportunities and experiences for our players.”