News
Prince William visits Charlton Athletic FC as President-Designate of The FA
27th October 2005
Prince William enjoyed a kick about with schoolchildren today on a visit to Charlton Athletic FC as preparation for his role as President of The Football Association.
Wearing his Eton house colours of royal blue and fawn, the 23-year-old Prince played football with youngsters on the London-based Premiership side's football community programme.
William tried his hand at goalkeeping before being presented with a red Charlton football shirt with Wales W and 2 on the back, which he changed into before training with members of the club's First Team.
Prince William, who will take over the presidency from his uncle The Duke of York in May, said he did not just want to be a “figurehead” for the organisation.
“I really want to try and get more kids involved in football,” he said.
“The power of football is huge and I think it needs to be harnessed and at the same time the sportsman side of football is a key issue to focus on.
“I just want to be helpful and be a contributor. I don't want to be just a figurehead.
“I want to help football ... and generally support football in every way I can.”
He added that what he liked about football was people “coming together for a passion that they love and a sport that this country holds very dear to its heart”.
William said he thought he would enjoy the role and was going to keep a “constant eye” on what was going on in The FA while he was undergoing his army training course at Sandhurst.
After jogging around the pitch and doing stretches and lunges with the Charlton First Team squad at their practice ground in New Eltham, South East London, William said: “I’m not as fit as I thought I was. I should be a lot fitter.”
He praised the club for its “awesome” community training programme which aims to get young people involved in the game and is regarded as one of the best in the country.
William also met Manager Alan Curbishley, who is the second longest serving manager in the Premier League.
Prince William played for his house football team at Eton and also for Sunday league teams during his four years at St Andrews University.