Robinson has been recognised for his impact and work with the Trust and the Premier League Kicks campaign.
As a former participant of sessions, he has since achieved qualifications such as FA Playmaker, Level 3 Laser Awards and NCFE Level 3 after returning to further education.
While representing the Trust in the Tactic League, a competitive football league for 16 to 19-year-olds, Robinson also joined Eversley and California Football Club.
As Robinson developed through education and football, he was offered part-time work within the Reading FC Community Trust. His role supported the delivery of both the Premier League Kicks and Premier League Inspires programmes, allowing him to contribute to session delivery while having a positive influence on other participants..
Robinson now serves as the Premier League Kicks Lead at the Reading FC Community Trust. In this role, he oversees the delivery of the same programme that once engaged him as a young person. His leadership reflects the full pathway from participant to programme leader, highlighting progression through participant, student, volunteer, staff and, ultimately, programme leader roles.
The “More Than A Game” PL Kicks Award is presented to individuals who embody the impact of Premier League-funded programmes. Robinson’s achievements and leadership within the Trust are outlined as examples of the positive outcomes the Kicks programme seeks to deliver in communities.
On behalf of the Football Club, the first-team manager Leam Richardson presented Robinson with the award at the Bearwood Training Complex.
Upon receiving the award, Robinson expressed appreciation and reflected on his personal growth. “Winning the More Than A Game award means a lot to me and is something I’m really proud of. When I first came to Premier League Kicks at Reading FC Community Trust, I was just coming down to sessions to play football with my mates and didn’t really think about where it could take me. Looking back now, it’s been a massive part of my journey,” said Ryan Robinson, Premier League Kicks Lead.
Robinson continued, “The support I received from the staff at Reading FC Community Trust came at the right time in my life. They believed in me, gave me structure, and helped me stay on track when I needed it most. Through the Trust, I was able to get back into education, build my confidence, and develop both on and off the pitch,” said Robinson.
He also spoke about his career progression and future aspirations within the Trust. “I’ve gone from being a participant, into education, then working part-time, and now leading the PL Kicks programme at the Trust. That’s something I never thought I’d achieve,” said Robinson.
Looking ahead, Robinson referenced his hope to support others with similar experiences. “Now I’m in a position where I can give back and support young people coming through Reading FC Community Trust who might be in a similar situation to where I was. If I can help even one person stay on the right path or realise their potential, then that means everything to me,” said Robinson.
Ryan’s story represents the full pathway of Kicks as a Participant, Student, Volunteer, Staff and Programme Leader.