Kick Out The Stigma (KOTS) is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year filled with growth, community engagement, and the love of football. Founded to create a space where people can enjoy the sport while promoting mental well-being, KOTS has quickly become a cornerstone of the local community.
In just one year, KOTS has successfully gathered 42 men every Tuesday night, providing them with a platform to play football, meet new people, and enjoy an evening with a clear mind. The group’s success has been so overwhelming that the only limiting factor has been the availability of pitches to accommodate more players. Building on this success, KOTS has also extended its reach by offering similar opportunities for women, a testament to the group’s inclusive ethos and commitment to expanding its positive impact.
Beyond the weekly matches, KOTS has been active in community fundraising efforts, raising money for Andover Mind, a charity close to the group’s heart. The past year has seen KOTS participate in various local events, including charity matches, the Soapbox Derby, and the Andover Carnival, where they have shared their message and spread joy throughout the community.
Recently, KOTS introduced dedicated women’s sessions, further broadening its community engagement and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the beautiful game. This new initiative has been met with enthusiasm, reflecting the growing demand for inclusive and supportive spaces where women can enjoy football and foster new connections.
The group’s progress has been supported by generous sponsorship from Rachel Hicks at Rachel’s Driving School and continuous backing from Simon Ayres at LETSbuildit4u. These partnerships, along with contributions from other local businesses and individuals, have been instrumental in enabling KOTS to thrive and expand its activities.
KOTS has also invested in its members by sponsoring courses, helping them to grow both personally and professionally. This focus on development is something the group intends to continue in the future.
Reflecting on the past year, Michael Ford, the founder of KOTS, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the group’s success. “All this wouldn’t be happening without you all, and I thank you all for everything,” he said. “Here’s to another year and more.”
As KOTS enters its second year, it looks forward to building on the strong foundations laid in its inaugural year, with continued support from its sponsors, members, and the wider community. Together, they are not just playing football but are also making a meaningful difference in the lives of those involved.
