Hull City's Brooke Norton-Cuffy, Darko Gyabi and Ilyas Ansah Celebrate No Room For Racism with Surprise Primary School Visit
During Black History Month in October, the Tigers Trust welcomed Hull City players Brooke Norton-Cuffy, Darko Gyabi and Ilyas Ansah to Marfleet Primary School as part of the Premier League's No Room For Racism message to promote inclusion, education and inspire the next generation.
Alongside Black History Month, No Room For Racism highlights football's ongoing commitment to tackling racism and discrimination while promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the game and wider society. It offers an important opportunity to educate, inspire and encourage positive change, helping to create more welcoming and inclusive environments for all.
During the visit to one of the Trust's Premier League Primary Stars partner schools, pupils took part in an engaging assembly that explored how football can create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. The session encouraged students to celebrate differences and highlighted how the sport can bring people together from different backgrounds.
To the delight of the pupils, the Hull City trio joined the assembly and spoke about their own experiences within the game. The players discussed the importance of inclusion in sport, shared stories from their careers and reflected on what it has been like playing and experiencing football in different countries. The session also featured a selection of retro Hull City shirts, highlighting the diverse range of players who have represented the Tigers across recent years.
The group then headed outside to take part in several small-sided matches. Brooke and Darko joined the teams and got involved alongside the pupils, while Ilyas took on refereeing duties. It was fantastic to see so many smiles throughout the activity, with both the children and players thoroughly enjoying the experience.
The event concluded with an opportunity for pupils to have photographs with the players, providing a perfect ending to a brilliant and inspiring day.
Football Development Manager Ryan McGregor, who delivers programmes within the school, said:
"A huge thank you to everyone including Hull City who played a part in making the day such a positive experience for the pupils and staff. The three players were fantastic with the children and fully embraced the opportunity to engage with them throughout the assembly, PE session and football matches. Their enthusiasm and willingness to get involved made a real impact and created memories that the pupils will cherish for a long time."
The Trust is also delighted to confirm that the visit will feature on BBC's Match of the Day, airing on the morning of Sunday 25th October, with the programme also available on BBC iPlayer shortly afterwards. The feature will explore the impact of Premier League Primary Stars, the importance of No Room For Racism and more insight to the players' special visit to Marfleet Primary School.
Take a look at some of the best moments from the day below.