A THAME charity founded in memory of a youngster who tragically passed away has launched a campaign to encourage children to take up sports.
The Jack O’Donnell Foundation has teamed up with Oxford Junior Ice Hockey Club to get kids off the street.
The partnership offers free access to ice hockey coaching and time on the ice.
Thame youngster Jack was an extremely talented ice hockey player with a bright future who tragically died aged 16 in July, 2010.
It is the Foundation’s aim to give other children the inspiration and support that Jack received.
The new campaign is in response to growing concerns that kids without a diverse mix of social activities, including sports, are at risk of being dragged into antisocial behaviour or violent crime.
Their Street to Sport programme is about increasing participation in sport amongst children and teenagers.
David O’Donnell, chairman of the charity, said: “We want to give children an alternative to spending all their spare time hanging out in parks or on the streets, and provide opportunities for them to participate in sport with all of the benefits that brings.”
The scheme, which takes place at Oxford Ice Rink, offers an opportunity to get involved in a sport which might otherwise be inaccessible to many children.
It is run by the Oxford Junior Ice Hockey Club and the sessions are completely free with all equipment provided by The Jack O’Donnell Foundation. The sessions take place at Oxford Ice Rink on Sundays at 4.15pm.
For more information email info@oxfordstars.com.
You can also visit www.jodf.org for more details on the Foundation.
