Future Lionesses shine in Wellington as free football sessions get underway

Girls (and boys too) across Telford and Wrekin have access to free football opportunities all summer, thanks to Telford & Wrekin Council’s Building Safer and Stronger Communities initiative - the Urban Games - supported by AFC Telford United.

Published on: 28 July 2025

With the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 capturing attention across Europe, local girls are stepping up at the Wellington 3G pitch, showcasing teamwork, passion, and talent.

The weekly 'Telford Kicks' sessions – open to both boys and girls - are held throughout the week for young people aged 12 and over, are delivered by qualified coaches from AFC Telford United and are completely free to attend with a high number of girls attending the Madeley and Wellington sessions already.

  • Madeley 3G - 4.30pm - 5.30pm (What3words location) Mondays - age 12+
  • Stirchley 3G - 5pm - 6pm + 6pm - 7pm (What3words) Thursdays 12 and under
  • Oakengates 3G – 5pm - 6pm (What3words) Thursdays - age 12+
  • Dawley 3G – 5pm - 6pm (What3words) Fridays - age 12+
  • Wellington AFC Telford United Goal Zone - 6-7pm (What3words) Fridays - age 12+
  • Lightmoor and Horsehay MUGA U12s - 6pm - 7pm and 7pm - 8pm - ages 12 -16 (What3words)
  • Lawley Primary Academy (What3Words) Friday - 6.30pm - 7.30pm - age 12+.

Councillor Paul Davis (Lab) Cabinet Member for Communities & Civic Pride said: “This summer is a fantastic time to be inspired by sport, especially women’s football. These sessions are about more than physical activity - they offer a supportive space where young people can build confidence, make friends and develop valuable life skills.

“For families navigating the cost of summer holidays, initiatives like this offer accessible and meaningful opportunities for their children.”

Sessions are open to both girls and boys across the borough, with additional venues in Dawley, Stirchley, Oakengates, Horsehay, Lightmoor, Lawley and at AFC Telford United’s Goal Zone.

Ian Preece, Foundation Director at AFC Telford United, added: “It’s always inspiring to see young people getting involved and enjoying the game. Whether they’re here to improve their skills, meet friends, or simply have fun, these sessions create a strong foundation - for players and communities alike.”

There is no need to book in advance - participants are welcome to turn up and take part. Funding from Telford & Wrekin Council’s Building Safer and Stronger Communities programme, in partnership with the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, has helped these sessions get underway.

There’s plenty more to keep boredom at bay with a bumper summer of fun-filled sports and activities for youngsters across the Borough.

Telford Kicks is part of Urban Games, a free, sports and activities programme for children aged up to 16. Professional coaches lead sessions including football, cricket, cycling, netball. table tennis, wrestling and much more. There’s no need to book in advance, just turn up and have fun. Full details available at www.telford.gov.uk/urbangames

Find out more about our 10 challenges to complete by the age of ten at https://10by10.telford.gov.uk/

Details of other clubs and activities can be found on the Council’s youth offer website, https://youthoffer.telford.gov.uk/.

Information for young people with additional needs, including activities, help and support can be found at Activities and Events

For a full round up of what’s on over the summer go to https://www.telford.gov.uk/whatsonintelford