Game on! Nottingham schools take to the court and pitch with Nottingham Forest and E.ON Next
Whistles blew as trainers hit the court when schools across Nottingham played in a city‑wide celebration of sport, confidence and competition.
E.ON Next, in partnership with Nottingham Forest, brought pupils together tomorrow last Friday, (8 May) for a high‑energy netball and football festival designed to get more young people active, engaged and loving sport.
Taking place in Nottingham, the festival gave local primary and secondary schools the chance to compete, learn and have fun in a professional sporting environment — breaking down barriers to participation and inspiring the next generation of players, coaches and supporters.
The festival welcomed over 40 teams from schools across the city, offering free tournament entry and the opportunity to meet Nottingham Forest Netball Head Coach Chelsea Pitman, the full Forest Netball Super League squad and players from the Women’s Football team.
Not only did the pupils compete in netball and football matches, but they also took part in a goal‑scoring challenge and met the Nottingham Forest Netball Team mascot. Each team received a football, netball and a set of reversible bibs to take back to school, helping to keep play going long after the final whistle.
Scott Somerville, Director of External Affairs at E.ON Next, said: “We have a large base in Nottingham, so it’s important to us that we’re investing in opportunities that genuinely make a difference for young people in the city. This festival wasn’t just about sport – it’s about building confidence, teamwork and resilience, and helping children, develop skills that will support them far beyond the court or pitch. By working with Nottingham Forest, we’re proud to be opening doors, removing barriers and showing that these opportunities are for everyone.”
Nottingham Forest Netball Head Coach, Chelsea Pitman, said: “Sport is at its best when it is accessible and when people have the opportunity to get involved and play. This was a great event, and we are all very grateful for the support of E.ON Next in helping to make it a reality. Connecting with the community is essential within our Nottingham Forest identity, I was thrilled to be there and for us to show our support.”
This event highlights E.ON Next’s long‑standing partnership with Nottingham Forest – one that goes beyond shirt sponsorship to deliver real value for the community. By bringing sport directly into local schools, the partnership is creating inclusive experiences that inspire confidence and help develop skills like resilience, teamwork, confidence, leadership and mental strength which are important attributes across many career pathways.
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