OUR VALUES
WE STRIVE TO
Develop and support football-based projects which lie at the heart of our communities.
Deliver work that reflects the way Cyrille lived his life – in service to others.
Break down social and economic barriers in our communities.
Provide support and guidance for all who seek our help.
Create initiatives that help people from disadvantaged backgrounds improve their circumstances.
WORKING IN THE COMMUNITY
Cyrille Regis earned a special place in the legend of football in the region by playing for four of the West Midlands clubs – West Brom, Coventry City, Aston Villa and Wolves.
It’s a notoriously difficult challenge for players because of the intense rivalries which have evolved within each of the fan bases over more than a century of competition. But such was Cyrille’s standing in the game, he was greeted with appreciation and respect across the divides.
And it is this special place he earned in the affections of all fans which plays a key role in the Trust’s “Strike A Change” programme.
Founder and Chair Julia Regis found all six regional clubs – Cyrille’s quartet of clubs along with Birmingham City and Walsall – all eager and willing to come together for a unique collaborative effort to fuel the plan. The power of the Regis name, and all that it stands for, was keenly felt.
The six clubs used their involvement and expertise in helping some troubled communities within their own fan base to identify young people who they felt would gain from involvement in the programme. They also then play a vital role in hosting the activity days which lie at the core of the Strike A Change philosophy.
These six gatherings across the regular school year are cornerstones of the Trust’s strategy and represent a partnership between rival clubs which does football proud. Through them, we are able to take our inspirational, life-changing messaging and practical assistance deep into communities where it can gain the most benefit.
SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION
Cyrille Regis enjoyed a full and fantastic career which saw him win England caps, the FA Cup and legendary status at both West Brom and Coventry City.
He was also one of the very few able to represent four West Midland clubs and yet enjoy the acclaim of each separate group of supporters despite their intense rivalries.
But when this much-loved figure stepped away from the pitch he was ultimately drawn to providing guidance and advice to youngsters setting off on their own football path.
Alongside him during this period of his life was his wife Julia who saw support for the next generation as the perfect to honouring her husband’s life and legacy.
“It was the part of his job that he loved the most,” Julia explained. “He always tried to give people a ‘leg-up’ and I really wanted the charity to reflect how I saw him live his life. Mentoring was part of the job he loved most.
“He believed passionately in trying to influence the next generation positively. I would like to see them dream big to believe in themselves and understand that they can achieve what they put their mind to achieve. I would like to see them inspired and to grow as individuals.”
Cyrille was my mentor. In his spirit and his courage, you can find yours too.
OUR IMPACT
STRIKE A CHANGE
Strike a Change is a unique collaboration between the Trust and all six West Midlands professional clubs. We deliver weekly sessions, providing inspirational mentors from the football world and beyond, to inspire youngsters to dream big, aim high and overcome the obstacles they are facing in their daily lives.
COMMUNITY STORIES
From fundraising events to special days out with our students to fundraising events, we’re always keeping busy and striving to improve our offering for young people across the West Midlands. To stay up to date with the latest news from the Trust, make sure to visit our Community Stories page using the link below.