Renowned footballer Marcus Rashford has unveiled a groundbreaking program, “Play Forward,” in collaboration with Football Without Borders and Nike. The initiative aims to instill self-belief in the next generation of youth through the power of football.

Developed by the curriculum team at Football Beyond Borders (FBB) in partnership with Rashford and Nike, the Play Forward curriculum focuses on empowering 11 and 12-year-olds to discover their unique abilities, build meaningful connections, and dare to dream big.

The curriculum covers various themes, including the significance of community, self-assurance, goal-setting, visualization, skills, and tactics. The overarching vision is to create an environment where all youth can flourish in mainstream education with the guidance of a trustworthy and relatable adult. The program begins with youth in Year 7, offering a platform for personal growth and development.

Speaking about the initiative, Marcus Rashford expressed his gratitude for the collaboration with Nike and Football Beyond Borders, emphasizing the importance of cultivating self-belief and recognizing the inherent potential within each individual. He looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of “Play Forward” on young participants.

The program consists of two-hour weekly on-and-off-pitch sessions conducted at community centers and FBB partner schools over a 12-week period. Managed by delivery partner Manchester Young Lives, Play Forward aims to create a supportive and engaging environment for youth. At the culmination of each 12-week cycle, participants are invited to a graduation ceremony, providing them with an opportunity to reflect on their journey and celebrate their achievements.

“Play Forward” signifies Rashford’s commitment to nurturing the mindset of self-belief and unlocking the untapped potential in every individual, contributing to the holistic development of young aspiring football players.