West Ham United’s Captain celebrates Community Captain

West Ham United’s Head Coach, Graham Potter, Club Captain, Jarrod Bowen, women’s first team player, Princess Ademiluyi surprised Arran when they presented him with his Community Captain award this week (Monday 10 February). The presentation took place at a Premier League Kicks session at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Dagenham, supported by Arran. It was also attended by acclaimed Hollywood actor and campaigner, Idris Elba, who was keen to see the impactful work that Arran delivers on behalf the Club. Arran will also be celebrated in front of over 60,000 West Ham fans at the London Stadium at the Club’s home Premier League fixture against Brentford on 15 February.

Arran Johny’s journey with the West Ham United Foundation began seven years ago, as a volunteer with the Premier League Kicks programme. His passion and dedication saw him progress into multiple roles, from mentoring young people at Kingsford School to coaching within the Post 16 programme at Chadwell Heath and supporting Pre-Academy work. His leadership skills later led him to manage his own project under the Youth Investment Fund (YIF), delivering multi-sport sessions in Tower Hamlets.

Arran has since taken on a pivotal role as MyEnds Coordinator and Youth Engagement Coordinator, overseeing intervention and prevention programmes in Barking. Through initiatives such as the Jigsaw intervention project and the youth forum, he continues to use the power of West Ham United as a tool to empower young people, providing opportunities and support to those at risk.

West Ham United Head Coach, Graham Potter, paid tribute to Arran’s impact, saying:

“Football is so much more than what happens on the pitch. It’s about community, opportunity, and giving people the chance to thrive. Arran embodies these values, and his work has made a real difference to so many young people. It’s fantastic to see his dedication recognised, and we’re incredibly proud to have him as part of the West Ham United family.”

West Ham United Captain, Jarrod Bowen added:

“Arran’s commitment to the community is truly inspiring. As players, we see firsthand how football can change lives, and people like Arran make that possible. He has given so much to the Club and the wider community, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his efforts.”

Community Captain, Arran Johny reflects on being awarded the Community Captain award:

“Being awarded the Community Captain award has been unbelievable. If I can make a positive impact on someone's life that’s all the recognition I need, when I hear that someone who I got back into mainstream education has finished secondary school, I’ll be there at home jumping up and down. Premier League Kicks is such an important programme, it’s so important that clubs can use the badge to make a positive impact, because things like this are the heart of a community.”