Largs Cluster Young Ambassadors Sports Equipment

Project code: 1155

Amount applied for

£1,000

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Project Summary

Our project will give school sports clubs proper competition equipment so young people can take part in matches, train effectively and develop teamwork, pride, confidence and lifelong healthy habits

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Project Description

Our project will provide new sports equipment for school teams, giving students the chance to train and compete with their own high-quality balls and equipment. Right now, the netball, basketball, football and rugby teams have to share worn or unsuitable PE equipment, which can make practicing and playing matches frustrating. By giving each team their own sets of competition-quality balls, exclusive for club uses, pupils will be able to play safely, build confidence, and enjoy the sport even more. This will benefit not only the students taking part in extracurricular sports but also the wider school community and set a model of representation as more young people are encouraged to join clubs, get active, and be part of something positive. Families and the wider community will also see children taking part in healthy, teamwork-focused activities. The costing for this project would be: 

Football

Fusion FIFA Basic Training Football's (10 Pack) £80.00   x2,    precision double action ball pump £6.00                             x2 

Netball

Gilbert training bibs £60.99     x2,    Rhino Airborne Netball bundle (15 pack) £180 

Volleyball

Kipsta volleyball classic - blue (single) £7.99   x25,   Mitre mesh ball sack £21     x2 

Basketball

Molten Basketball 12 Panel Rubber (Indoor & Outdoor) £21.46   x15, 

Total comes to £997.68 

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How have young people been involved in shaping this project?

The Largs Cluster Young Sports Ambassadors have been at the heart of shaping this project from the very beginning. We’re passionate about promoting extracurricular sports and inspiring young people in our school community to get involved—whether it’s trying a new sport or joining multiple clubs. We’ve helped plan and run events like the recent sports fayre and made sure there’s a wide variety of inclusive clubs available for everyone, no matter their age, ability, or experience or identity. We also support links to local community sports, organize competitions that our teams regularly take part in, and celebrate pupil achievements throughout the year, especially at our annual sports awards. For us, sport is more than just playing—it’s about forming relationships and learning important life skills like teamwork, leadership, and decision-making, which can be carried into all areas of life, whatever career or path young people choose. Young people have also been directly involved in shaping how our clubs run. We surveyed standard PE equipment to see what our teams need to train and compete effectively, and spoke with current and past members to understand what equipment and resources would make the biggest difference. Their ideas and feedback have helped shape the way we run our clubs and events.

Location: The Largs Cluster includes the communities of Largs, Fairlie, Skelmorlie, West Kilbride, Seamill, and Millport in North Ayrshire. These areas feature a mix of coastal and rural landscapes, offering a distinctive living environment. At the same time, the region faces significant socio-economic challenges. Child poverty is a major concern in North Ayrshire, with 24.3% of children living in poverty after housing costs in 2023–24, slightly above the national average of 24% (North Ayrshire Council). Additionally, 28% of the area’s data zones are among the 15% most deprived in Scotland (Education Scotland). Many families in these communities experience financial instability, struggling to manage unexpected expenses, falling behind on bills, and reducing spending on essentials such as food and clothing for their children (North Ayrshire Community). Expensive sports clubs or coaching fees on top of this is just not manageable for some families which creates inequality in areas Despite these challenges, the Largs Cluster community supports its members through initiatives like the Largs Cluster Young Sports Ambassadors, which provide young people with an outlet and opportunities to get involved with sports, develop leadership skills, and participate in extracurricular activities. These programs offer positive experiences and support personal growth, helping to reduce some of the pressures families face. Community-led efforts focus on improving quality of life in the area, addressing immediate needs while working toward a more equitable and thriving community.

Proposed on behalf of: Largs Cluster Young Ambassadors is a group dedicated to making extra-curricular sports accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We help combat the financial barriers often associated with lessons or coaching fees by providing completely free opportunities for anyone willing to work hard and participate. This helps lift some of the financial burden from families who may be struggling. Our teams thrive on a strong sense of cohesion and togetherness, which not only boosts community spirit but also lays positive foundations for future players to continue this legacy within the wider community. We are proudly inclusive—welcoming everyone, regardless of age, gender, identity, or sporting ability. You don’t have to have played sport from a young age to discover a passion for it later in life. We support and encourage all newcomers who want to try something new, get fit, or improve their mental well-being. At the heart of everything we do is a genuine love for sport, teamwork, and empowering others to achieve their best through extra-curricular opportunities outside the school curriculum.