Using the power of football to engage young people, Newcastle United Foundation delivers 19 free Premier League Kicks sessions every week, tackling anti-social behaviour and enriching the quality of childhoods through sporting opportunities in the community.
The visit to Byker Primary coincided with the Premier League's No Room For Racism campaign, which runs from 5-14 April. Willock took the opportunity to join the Foundation’s coaching staff, before teaming up with Ameobi for a Q&A with the youngsters to illuminate the importance of diversity in sport and wider society.
Speaking after the session, Willock commented: "It's so valuable for us to come and meet kids of this age as it's vital for them to grow up understanding that there is No Room For Racism in football and across the wider world.
"When I spoke out earlier in the season, it wasn't just for me; it was for everyone that has been dealing with similar issues. Someone else may be in the same position but not know what to do, so I just tried to put it out there and raise awareness.
"I have a brilliant support team with teammates, the manager, family and friends. Coming here, you don't know about personal situations and the support that people have at home to help deal with issues. That’s why it felt important for myself, Shola and Newcastle United to come along to a Kicks session and speak about this topic."
Continued backing of the campaign follows the Premier League's four-year update on the No Room For Racism Action Plan, showing progress being made to increase diversity across all areas of football. It highlights an ongoing commitment to tackling discrimination and supporting individuals who suffer discriminatory abuse.
Former Magpies striker Shola Ameobi is part of the Premier League Black Participants' Advisory Group, which played a key role in shaping the No Room For Racism Action Plan prior to its launch in 2021.
Ameobi, a Newcastle United Foundation Trustee, added: "Working together, we all have an opportunity to make a difference in each other's lives: I feel like the earlier you can do that, the better off society will be. Being able to support initiatives like No Room for Racism in schools and around the community is really important.
"Premier League Kicks sessions also provide a place where you feel like you can be yourself and talk to your peers, while being supported by staff who ensure that everyone feels heard. That’s something the Foundation really wants to push and involving initiatives like No Room For Racism really adds value."
More than 4,000 young people enjoy free, supervised Premier League Kicks sessions delivered by Newcastle United Foundation every year, with sessions available across the North East, from Berwick to Gateshead - click here to register.
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