The Albion Foundation held a darts fundraiser at local partner school Gospel Oak, the first of its kind to be organised by the charitable arm of West Bromwich Albion.
Foundation staff set up two separate tournaments throughout the day, one for younger year groups, and the second for older years – all with the aim of creating an enjoyable atmosphere and raising money for the Foundation.
Students fundraised to play in the tournament, with prizes available for the winner and the student with the most money raised.
“It’s something we’re proud to be involved in,” Mr Mason, teacher at Gospel Oak said. “Gospel Oak has never had anything like this before; the Foundation are just trying it for the first time and it’s great to be a part of it.
“We’ve enjoyed it. We’ve had students asking for another go at the tournament, it adds a lot of value to Gospel Oak and they’ve loved it.
“Just sadly we have to let the students win at times.”
It wasn’t just the teachers who were delighted to see the Foundation put on an exciting day – the students were also having fun while supporting a worthy cause.
“We’ve played in the darts tournament, and it’s been really fun,” Millie, a student at Gospel Oak said. “I’ve never played darts before, but I’ve given it a go and now I feel more confident.
“I’m a massive Albion fan so The Albion Foundation has helped me in my journey. Aaliyah used to mentor me, and I’ve been involved in a couple of player appearances.”
For Myar, another pupil at the school, it’s all about regaining confidence to step up to the oche again, after previously playing at a younger age.
“It’s gone really well,” Myar said. “I was quite good at darts when I was younger, and now I’ve gained the confidence to start playing again.
“It’s been nice to have the Foundation here and I’d definitely do it again.”
After raising over £2000 for the Foundation, students were also offered the opportunity to take part in the Junior Darts Event at The Hawthorns on Saturday, June 7 – and they’ll be bidding to take the crown this weekend.
