Basingstoke town FC partners with GOAT Boys programme

The GOAT Boys Mentoring Programme is a six-month scheme designed to help young men thrive by building character and confidence in a changing world.

The programme, which stands for Growth, Ownership, Attitude, and Tenacity, launched its very first session on Thursday, January 29, and aims to equip boys with the tools and support they need to succeed in life.

Jack Miller, chairman of BTCFC, said: "For us, this partnership is about stepping up for our community.

Basingstoke Town FC Academy players together, image: Steve Gridley (Image: Steve Gridley)

"It is imperative that boys and young men have access to positive male role models they can relate to and learn from.

"Sometimes, just having someone there to offer a different perspective and provide the guidance to build confidence and motivation can make all the difference.

"As a community club, we want to play our part in providing that support network."

The GOAT Boys Mentoring Programme was founded in Basingstoke at Brighton Hill Community School, creating a natural link between education and the football club.

It was inspired in part by Sir Gareth Southgate’s Dimbleby Lecture, in which the former England football manager spoke about the importance of guidance and mentorship for boys and young men.

Basingstoke Town FC Academy players together, image: Steve Gridley (Image: Steve Gridley)

Sir Gareth said: "Too many young men are isolated.

"Many don’t have mentors, teachers, coaches—bosses who understand how best to push them to grow."

The scheme aims to address those challenges by connecting boys with mentors who can offer real-life experience, encouragement, and direction.

Board includes Chris Edwards, headteacher of Brighton Hill and a former Community Club board member, who has helped bridge the gap between school and sport in order to reach boys who may benefit most from structured mentoring.

BTCFC chairman Mr Miller and sustainability director Thom Rawson have both volunteered as mentors for the programme, joining around 80 others from across the town.

He added: "I am incredibly proud that we are able to support this first wave of the programme first-hand and also help offer that important guidance where it’s needed most."

The football club describes the partnership as a key part of its wider commitment to social sustainability.

By backing the GOAT Boys initiative from day one, the club aims to champion a future where boys feel grounded, supported, and can build belief in themselves and their futures.