The Sunderland Echo Morning Update Tuesday 11 November, 2025
Sunderland AFC legend Kevin Phillips has officially opened a brand-new Football Foundation Play Zone in Silksworth Park in a bid to get more people active and involved in sport.
The new facility will host football, netball and basketball, as well as walking versions of each sport to make sure everyone, including older residents and those with disabilities, can take part.
Sunderland AFC legend Kevin Phillips at the official opening of the new Play Zone.placeholder image
Sunderland AFC legend Kevin Phillips at the official opening of the new Play Zone. | SAFC
Developed in partnership with Sunderland City Council and the Football Foundation, the Play Zone was shaped by ideas from over 900 local residents, ensuring it meets the needs of the whole community.
SAFC’s official charity, the Foundation of Light will use the Play Zone to deliver programmes such as Premier League Kicks, “engaging young people through the power of football and sport to build confidence, improve wellbeing and strengthen community connections”.
After performing the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the new Play Zone, Kevin said: “It’s fantastic to see facilities like this being created for the community. The Foundation of Light do incredible work here in Sunderland, and spaces like this make it possible for even more people to benefit from the positive impact of sport.”
Jamie Wright, Chief Operating Officer at the Foundation of Light, added: “This new Play Zone is a brilliant example of how we can work together to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to stay active, connect with others and enjoy the benefits of sport. We’re proud to be part of bringing this to life for the Silksworth community.”
Another Play Zone is set to open later this year (2025) in Southwick, further expanding opportunities for local residents to get active and connected through sport.
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