Academy praised
A pioneering study into the value of football in the community has hailed Ayr United’s Academy.
UEFA’s Social Return on Investment ( SROI) report has confirmed that the AUFA contributes nearly € 10 million to its local community.
The Academy was selected to participate in the pilot project to place a monetary value on their football programmes.
They cover a spectrum of social, health and economic outcomes.
The Academy’s highlights include € 4.8m in “subjective wellbeing” and more than € 500,000 in improved mental health.
Their work in helping to tackle diabetes and combat absence from school was also highlighted within the report.
Almost € 900,000 worth of volunteering also comes from the organisation.
Hailing United’s setup, Scottish FA President Rod Petrie said:“We have known for many years that football’s impact stretches beyond the pitch.
“This report demonstrates the incredible reach that Ayr United Football Academy has on many parts of Scottish society in South Ayrshire and puts a tangible figure on the fantastic work that the club carries out within their local community.”
Allan Gunning, chair of the United Academy, said:“Since AUFA was formed in 2005 we have worked with our partners and volunteers to do all we can to make a positive contribution to our local communities.
“The research confirms that, together, for every £ 1 invested into AUFA programmes we deliver a £ 17 return.
“The report demonstrates how this return helps to reduce the risk of our population facing a range of social, health and economic problems.
“The financial values contained in the model complement the qualitative evidence of the benefits we have from various case studies involving participants in our programmes.
“This overwhelming evidence base provides a clear and compelling reason for increasing participation in our programmes.
“We are already in positive discussions about how we can deliver a 40% cumulative increase in Academy participants over the next five years.”
UEFA Head of National Association Business Development Noel Mooney added:“The SROI model now allows us to demonstrate a monetary value of our clubs and the results showcase just how impactful clubs like Ayr United Football Academy are on the football pitch and beyond.”