Fairhill partners with Coaching for Christ to support young players in Ballymena

Valerie McLernon - Centre Manager of Fairhill Shopping Centre and Rodney Weir - Head of Development at Coaching for Christ with members of the football team.

Fairhill Shopping Centre has announced its sponsorship of new training football kits for Coaching for Christ, strengthening its commitment to the Ballymena community and local grassroots sport.

The newly branded kits will be worn in upcoming matches and events, proudly displaying the partnership between the shopping centre and the Christian coaching organisation.

The initiative highlights Fairhill’s ongoing support for local programmes that provide opportunities for young people to thrive both on and off the pitch.

Ryan Walker, owner of Fairhill Shopping Centre, said:

“At Fairhill, we believe in the power of community and the importance of investing in the next generation.

“Coaching for Christ is doing incredible work to support young people, not just in football but in life. We are proud to play a small part in helping them continue their mission.”

Coaching for Christ (CFC) is a Ballymena-based organisation that uses football as a platform to inspire and transform lives. The group works with children and young people locally and globally, offering not only coaching but also mentorship and faith-based support.

Valerie McLernon - Centre Manager of Fairhill Shopping Centre and Rodney Weir - Head of Development at Coaching for Christ with member of the football team.

Rodney Weir, Head of Development at Coaching for Christ, said:

“We are excited to welcome Fairhill as the new sponsor for the CFC Youth Academy training range.

“CFC Academy has grown to over 350 participants, from our youngest players of four years old starting their football journey, to the most senior players of our Academy playing competitively every week.

“Simply, CFC utilises the method of coaching football to connect with people and provide a safe environment in which they can attain a sense of belonging, feel the warmth of a family and have faith and hope instilled into their lives.

“Fairhill has been a constant presence in the local community and we are delighted that they have kindly partnered with us to help continue to grow our projects here in Ballymena.”

Fairhill Shopping Centre has a strong track record of supporting local initiatives. Alongside Coaching for Christ, it works closely with Castle Tower School, helping staff and students throughout the year.

The centre says these partnerships reflect its belief that “strong communities are built through shared support and encouragement.”

For more information about Fairhill Shopping Centre and its community initiatives, visit fairhillshopping.co.uk.