Sports with Us is Bank of America’s global platform that uses the power of sport to help young people build confidence, develop important life skills and access pathways to education. Now spanning 15 countries and providing access to sports for more than 1.2 million children, the Sports with Us platform is part of Bank of America's commitment to create a lasting legacy post the bank being the Official Bank of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Bank of America has named Youth Sport Trust as the UK delivery partner for the launch of Sports with Us in the UK, building on an existing partnership and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for young people through sport.
Sports with Us in the UK will support the expansion of Youth Sport Trust's Active in Mind programme, helping school age young people improve their mental health, build resilience and future-readiness through sport and physical activity. Participants will benefit from sport-based activities led by Athlete Mentors, alongside practical learning focused on leadership, teamwork, communication, wellbeing, nutrition and financial education. Programme modules have been developed in collaboration with leading global universities and educational institutions.
Fernando Vicario, Bank of America Country Executive for UK and CEO of Merrill Lynch International said: "Sport has the power to open doors. It helps young people develop confidence, resilience and the skills they need to succeed both on and off the field. Through Sports with Us and our partnership with Youth Sport Trust, we are helping create pathways for young people to build brighter futures and realise their full potential."
Gary Neville, former professional footballer, entrepreneur, broadcaster, and business leader, said: "Sport gave me opportunities and life lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career. It teaches teamwork, discipline, leadership and resilience. These are skills that help young people succeed in every aspect of life. Sports with Us is about creating opportunities, building confidence and helping the next generation believe in what they can achieve."
Ali Oliver MBE, Chief Executive Officer of Youth Sport Trust, said: "We know the transformative impact sport and play can have on young people's wellbeing, confidence, cognitive development and future prospects. Building on our Active in Mind programme, which focuses on using physical activity to strengthen mental health and resilience in adolescence, our partnership with Bank of America, Sports with Us will help equip young people with the essential skills they need to thrive in education, employment and life. We are proud to work together to create more opportunities and positive outcomes for young people across the UK."