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A Preston North End player has been announced as Preston North End Community and Education Trust’s (PNECET) ambassador for its Champions Programme.
Jack Whatmough will work on connecting with participants and sharing his journey to inspire participants to make positive changes in their lives.
The Champions Programme aims to positively impact at-risk young people by helping them build self-confidence, resilience, and essential life skills through structured workshops, mentoring, and skill-building activities.
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Talking about why he wanted to become the Champions Ambassador and a role model for the young people involved, Jack said: “It stems from the appearance I did last Christmas at the PNECET Youth Club Christmas Party.
“I don’t think people get given enough chances to prove what good people they can be, and sitting at the party and seeing how the night started to how it ended – from people swearing at one another and potentially being sent home, to it ending really positively and everyone having a laugh together – that’s a really positive memory for me.”
Jack grew up in a challenging environment, which gives him a special understanding of what some participants may be facing.
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He added: “Where I was brought up wasn’t the nicest area in the world, so I was fortunate that I got put on the right path. Being able to go out in the community to safe places where I could play football, be around my mates, and stay out of trouble – I feel as though I can somewhat relate to the young people involved with Champions.”
Now a father of two, Jack is driven to make a meaningful difference in his own children’s lives and for others in the community.
“Some of these young people end up in these situations through no fault of their own, and the Champions participants need to be given a bit of credit when it comes to their progress and development.
“They’ve decided the time has come to make a change in their life, and working with the Champions team at the Trust has helped a lot of young people start to turn their lives around.
“For me, when I was growing up, going out to play football in the community and having a place to spend time with my friends was a big part of my childhood. So, to be able to play a small part and give back to young people in a similar position, in whatever way I can, is something that means a lot to me.”
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Adam Bolton, Champions Coordinator at PNECET, said: “Having Jack on board as our Champions Ambassador brings immense value to our programme. His genuine passion for helping young people and his own experiences make him an ideal role model for our participants.
“Jack’s commitment to our participants and his understanding of the challenges they face will hopefully make a difference, giving them someone they can look up to as they work towards a brighter future.”
The Champions Programme will aim to continue to motivate and empower young people to help them build positive futures for themselves.
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