School programme tackles online abuse in football

Nine schools will take part in a 12-week programme aimed at tackling online abuse and discrimination in football.

Northampton Town Community Trust is running Cobblers Play Fair with support from the Premier League and the Professional Footballers' Association Players' Fund.

Figures released by the English Football League last year showed online abuse directed at its players during the 2024-25 season had doubled over two seasons.

The programme will also include sessions about disability and women in football.

Maheta Molango, the chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, hoped the initiative would "help young people understand the impact of discrimination and the importance of treating others with respect".

He said: "It's a great example of how clubs and players can use their influence beyond the pitch, and we're proud to work alongside Northampton Town and the Premier League to help make projects like this possible."

Cobblers Play Fair was launched at Sixfields Stadium on Tuesday, at an event attended by staff from the schools involved.

Northampton Town defender and secondary schools ambassador, Janoi Donacien, added: "If we can help them to recognise harmful behaviour we are creating a healthier digital future for everyone."

Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.