The partnership will see the charity’s anti-discrimination message showcased on Ballerz shirts and throughout the 30,000 sq ft arena, which is located at Bluewater shopping centre in Kent.
Ahead of the official opening on Saturday 18 May, Ferdinand said:
“Kick It Out is a really good organisation who are synonymous with the game in this country.
“Discrimination is something we don’t condone here at Ballerz. So, to have Kick It Out as one of our partners is a step in the right direction for us.
“We want to influence the next generation and I think education is key to helping young people understand what’s right and wrong when it comes to discrimination. We want Kick It Out to hold our hand and go through that journey with us.
“The anti-discrimination message is a starting point to educate people and hopefully now we’re joining forces with Kick It Out, we’ll be able to help with that.”
Hollie Varney, Kick It Out COO, said, ‘We’re delighted to be working with Rio Ferdinand and Ballerz to amplify our anti-discrimination message.
“Kick It Out is committed to creating a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive culture throughout football, and it’s brilliant to see Ballerz proudly showcasing these values on the front of their shirts and throughout the venue.
“Ballerz looks set to be one of the most exciting new football venues in the country and we’re excited to be working with the team as they prepare to open their doors.”
The venue has been designed by top former professional football players and coaches and promises to be one of the most immersive, competitive socialising experiences in the country.
It will feature a state-of-the-art, seven-a-side 5G football pitch complete with Premier League-style changing rooms, stadium-style seating and players’ tunnel and have the ability to show instant replays pitch-side.
To find out more about Ballerz visit: www.ballerz.co.uk
