Football – the heart of our nation, still beating strong for over a hundred years. What would England be without the chanting of football fans outside the station and the breaking up of fans who’ve had a bit too much to drink? But the people keeping that heart healthy are the very people that our little boys and girls idolize. The very people that our little brothers and sisters look up to. The very people that our nations little people aspire to be. And it all starts when you join a football club. This Haringey Football Club, situated on West Green Road in Park View School, is one of many that could make those dreams reality. It’s our goal – no our duty – to keep that beautiful heart strong and healthy for centuries and centuries to come. And what better way than to start at the beginning.

We all know those doctor-proven reasons for joining a football club. Keeping fit, staying active, getting your vitamin D. But you can do that with running or joining an outdoor gym. What separates everyday working-out and joining a football club, is the exhilarating feeling of playing a sport that you enjoy. The joy of meeting genuine people and finding friends for life. Here at this football club (and I'm sure many others), there is a unity between the children. These children are old enough to appreciate that mistakes are part of what makes us human. I’m a first hand witness to this kindness, as my own little brother attended the club for years.

Self development. Self confidence. Self belief. If you want to boost all these things, joining a football club is the way to go. Developing yourself so you can show off your skills and give you an edge from others. At this football club, kids as young as 6 can run and kick and play until their little hearts are content. The older kids, aged from 11 to 16, that's when the real unity of the team begins to present itself. You know how the old saying goes – practice makes perfect. For some, football is not only a hobby but a passion. And the only way to get better, is to keep on trying. Football is also an amazing confidence booster. When you make friends with people, you have a connection with them and you trust them. With friends cheering you on, you have the confidence to do spectacular things. Things you didn’t know you were capable of doing.

Aside from the benefits to the body, joining a football club has amazing benefits for the mind. Psychologists have proven that having a hobby reduces the risk of mental health disorders in the future. Being more sociable prevents risk of isolation, which can lead to depression. Doesn't that scare you? The idea of our young ones becoming depressed in the future sends chills down my spine. But this isn't a scare tactic to try and force you to shove your child in the closest football club you see. Consider getting them into a hobby, but, make sure it's a hobby that will be worth while. Don’t underestimate the power of “I’m on the ps4", or something along those lines. Children will do anything to stay glued onto technology. But let's rip off that glue and replace it with a ball.

By Camay Davis Mcauley, City and Islington College