The sessions at the Beacon of Light give youngsters an opportunity to experience a day in the life of a professional footballer, including tailored drills, match analysis and tactical games. | Foundation of Light

placeholder image — The sessions at the Beacon of Light give youngsters an opportunity to experience a day in the life of a professional footballer, including tailored drills, match analysis and tactical games. | Foundation of Light

We worked hard, we kept focussed and now we're playing for Sunderland - Dan Neil inspires young fans

Lifestyle Editor

Published 4th Sep 2025, 14:33 GMT

“We worked hard, we kept focussed and now we're playing for Sunderland,” said Black Cat Dan Neil as he inspired the next generation of footballers.

The SAFC midfielder marked the end of the Foundation of Light’s summer holiday programme with a special visit to Ford Football Hub.

The former Foundation of Light Community Champion met children attending the Foundation’s Train Like a Pro, Train Like a Lioness and Disability Football sessions.

Throughout the school summer holidays, Sunderland AFC's registered charity has welcomed over 1000 young people to sessions at the Beacon of Light and across the region.