CELEBRATING COMMUNITY CAPTAIN RAYAN

Main Club Sponsor

TICKETS

SHOP

Participant Rayan honoured at Burnley v Bournemouth for Premier League 'More Than A Game' campaign

2026-03-24T17:02:19.116Z

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY CAPTAIN RAYAN

Participant Rayan honoured at Burnley v Bournemouth for Premier League 'More Than A Game' campaign

2026-03-24T17:02:19.116Z

Participant Rayan honoured at Burnley v Bournemouth for Premier League 'More Than A Game' campaign

As part of the Premier League’s ‘More Than A Game’ campaign, during the match against Bournemouth, Burnley FC in the Community were proud to present Rayan Al‑Bakali with the Community Captain award – a recognition that celebrates individuals who make an extraordinary contribution to their community through Premier League programmes.

Rayan’s journey is a shining example of what the Premier League Kicks programme is all about: supporting young people, empowering personal growth, and inspiring positive change.

From Participant to Leader

Rayan has been involved in Premier League Kicks for seven years - first as a participant, later as a volunteer. His story is one of transformation.

When he first joined as a young teenager, Rayan often challenged boundaries and struggled to channel his energy in the right way. But through consistent engagement, trusted relationships with staff, targeted workshops and structured football and personal development sessions, he began to understand the impact of his actions - both on himself and others.

A Role Model for Others

Over time, Rayan became a positive influence within sessions. He naturally stepped into leadership roles, including welcoming and supporting new participants and assisting young refugees by translating and helping them settle. He has volunteered his time to support wider youth programmes such as NCS and acts as a peer role model to younger attendees

His commitment comes from a genuine desire to give back to the programme that supported him through his own development.

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY CAPTAIN RAYAN - Image 1

Making a Lasting Impact

Rayan’s journey reflects the core values of Premier League Kicks - growth, resilience, opportunity, and community. His influence can be seen and felt weekly - participants trust him, staff rely on him and young people look up to him.

His progression from participant to volunteer shows just how powerful programmes like Premier League Kicks can be - with the right support and environment, potential can be unlocked.

Why Rayan Was Chosen

"Rayan has been nominated because his journey captures what Premier League Kicks is about. He joined the programme as a young person who struggled with boundaries, but through commitment, support, and his own determination, he has grown into a positive role model and leader.

"His willingness to support others, especially new participants and young refugees, and his decision to give back as a volunteer show real maturity and character. Rayan doesn’t just benefit from Kicks - he actively makes the programme better for everyone involved."– Lewis Helps, Youth Engagement Coordinator

Part of the Premier League’s 'More Than A Game' Campaign

Rayan’s recognition forms part of the Premier League’s More Than A Game initiative - a celebration of the clubs, communities, staff, and participants who make football a force for good. Now in its 20th year, Premier League Kicks continues to support young people across England and Wales with free football sessions, mentoring, and personal development opportunities.

A huge congratulations to Rayan

We are incredibly proud of everything Rayan has achieved and the difference he continues to make. His dedication, growth, and generosity embody the spirit of our community work.

Congratulations, Rayan - our 2026 Community Captain!

About Premier League Kicks

Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Foundation, uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential, in some of the most high -need areas in England and Wales.