As England progress into the knockout stages, McDonald’s and man of the moment, Kalvin Phillips, are galvanising kids from across the country to have fun and play football through the McDonald’s Fun Football sessions.

Since England began their campaign this summer, McDonald’s has seen a surge in sign-ups to its Fun Football programme across the country, with a 120% increase in Yorkshire following Phillips’ exceptional performance in England’s opening game.  The impact of a strong tournament can also be seen in Wales, with 80% of Fun Football sessions full within hours of the team qualifying for the Round of 16.  

Inspired by Phillips’ call-up, kids flocked to Wortley FC, Phillips’ boyhood grassroots club, last weekend to take part in McDonald’s latest Fun Football session.  

Boys and girls aged 5-11 from the club were led by a fully qualified Fun Football coach as they participated in skills sessions, team building exercises and football games - similar to ones Phillips would have enjoyed when he played there at the same age.

Kalvin Phillips, England international said: “Since I was a kid, I would play football wherever or whenever I could – before school, at Wortley or over at mushy fields.  I’d play with anyone, my mates, my brother, my sisters. I’d always have a ball at my feet, because for me, it was all about having fun and the people I was with. None of that’s changed, even today playing with England! That’s why I’m excited to team up with McDonald’s to encourage more kids to try football for the first time and enjoy themselves through their free Fun Football sessions.”

This summer McDonald’s is hosting 800+ Fun Football sessions across the UK and is committing to deliver over one million hours of free football, giving thousands of kids aged 5-11 the chance to play.  

Paul Pomroy, Chief Executive Officer, McDonald’s UK & Ireland said: “As a parent of two young boys I know first-hand how difficult lockdown has been on kids.  Not being active and playing sports has certainly had an impact both physically and mentally, which is why I’m proud that we have relaunched the McDonald’s Fun Football sessions this June.

The tournament this summer has had a real impact on kids wanting to get out there and play – particularly in England and Wales. Seeing how excited the young children from Wortley FC are by Kalvin’s success is inspiring.  We hope the buzz will continue to get more and more kids wanting to play, and we welcome kids of all ages and ability to come along and give our sessions a go.”

McDonald’s is the longest-standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK having worked with the four UK FAs for 19 years. The Fun Football programme aims to introduce children with no footballing experience to the beautiful game, helping them develop their all-round skills in a safe, fun and pressure-free environment.

To find your local session head to mcdonalds.co.uk/football.