Welsh football legends Ian Rush and Mickey Thomas have joined over 40 business leaders for the second CEO Kickabout; a joint initiative between Acorn and the Football Association of Wales (FAW) Trust.
The unique charity football event brings Welsh directors together for a day of sport and business to raise funds for the FAW Trust’s community development work to encourage more people, male and female, of all ages to play football. Held at the FAW’s base at Dragon Park in Newport, the event also showcases the world class facilities available for businesses and sports groups in Wales.
Osian Roberts, the National Team Assistant Coach, kicked off the day with a behind the scenes presentation following Wales’ Euro 16 success. He was then joined by Carl Darlington, FAW Trust, Head of Coach Education, who gave an insight into the analysis and strategy behind every game. Aware of his audience, he continuously referred back to how ‘analysis through football can be applied to business strategy’.
After Osian and Carl had inspired the group, the company directors were split into six teams, changed into their personalised Welsh kit and began playing a highly competitive tournament with football legends Ian Rush and Mickey Thomas.
Following the success of the first CEO Kickabout, and with the promise of playing football alongside such heroes as Ian Rush and Mickey Thomas, the number of guests beat previous records. They were also joined by other sport professionals such as international rugby player Martyn Williams, Welsh footballer Michael Flynn, and cricketer Mike Powell.
The day finished with a presentation to the champions and runners up of the tournament, and the CEO Kickabout ‘Man of the Tournament’ which was awarded to Mark Allford, of Circle IT.
Laura Nicholas, Director of Acorn’s Executive Search Division, said: “following the success of our first event back in May, we’re delighted with the outcome of our latest CEO Kickabout. Everyone truly had a great day, and we’ve raised thousands of pounds for the FAW Trust.
“As Matt Southall, Acorn’s MD said at the event – it’s great to be able to get so many business leaders together for a day of sport and business, and all for a good cause.”
Laura added: “As a leading recruiter, it’s important for us to give something back to the local communities in which we are based – the FAW Trust works incredibly hard, providing grassroots football with a foundation to excel and we’re delighted to be able to continue to offer our support in this way.”
Chief Executive of the FAW Trust, Neil Ward said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the success of the CEO Kickabout events. With just two events within five months, we’re extremely grateful to Acorn and of course to all our guests who helped us raise valuable funds for the FAW Trust.
“We’re already planning our 2017 CEO Kickabout events with Acorn, so it’s an exciting time and a great initiative to be part of.”