Building stronger communities by empowering local grass roots sports clubs

Written by Valda Energy
08/05/2025

About Us

In celebration of Valda Energy’s 5th anniversary last year, we proudly launched a grassroots sports initiative to support local communities across Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, and Buckinghamshire.

This campaign was designed to champion the power of sport in driving positive change—from enhancing physical and mental wellbeing to fostering personal development, promoting social inclusion, and nurturing talent in performance sports.

We are thrilled to announce the 10 inspiring winners of this initiative, each making a meaningful impact in their communities. We look forward to supporting their efforts and helping them thrive as they continue to uplift and empower those around them.

Abingdon Youth Football Club

Founded in 1963, Abingdon Youth Football Club now supports over 400 members, offering a safe and structured environment for players aged 5 to 18.

Funding will provide new kits for the Under-8 Greens team, promoting inclusivity by ensuring equal access to resources. This not only supports skill development and team growth but also strengthens community ties and inspires future participation in the sport.

Kingsthorpe Jets Youth Football Club

Since 1993, Kingsthorpe Jets Youth Football Club has been committed to making grassroots football accessible to all ages, now supporting over 600 members.

With a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment, the club offers development sessions led by qualified coaches. Their funding will help provide equipment for their “Micro Jets” sessions (ages 2+), support families facing financial hardship, and expand opportunities for young players, strengthening both the club and the wider community.

West Oxfordshire Levellers RL

West Oxfordshire Levellers RL is a community rugby league club based in Witney, Oxfordshire, dedicated to inclusivity and player development across all ages, genders, and abilities.

Their goal is to grow participation from diverse backgrounds, build a strong fixture list, and expand their reach. They will use their funds to provide equipment, outreach to underrepresented groups, and development programmes that promote both sporting potential and personal wellbeing, making the club a welcoming space for all.

Aylesbury Vale Dynamos Pan-Disability Team (AVD Panthers)

Aylesbury Vale Dynamos Pan-Disability Team (AVD Panthers) is a club dedicated to making football accessible for children with disabilities.

With a focus on supportive coaching, the club helps players build skills, confidence, and friendships through inclusive competition. Funding will enable the launch of a new team, provide fresh kits, and purchase essential training equipment, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive both on and off the pitch.

Bicester & North Oxford Cricket Club

Founded in 1996, Bicester & North Oxford Cricket Club is a volunteer-led club with 283 members, offering cricket for all ages and abilities.

The club believes everyone can grow in the sport they love, regardless of skill level. Their funds will go towards new equipment for young players and support their development through quality coaching, helping them reach their full potential and stay inspired within a supportive team environment.

Bicester Athletic Club

Bicester Athletic Club was established in 1982 and supports 216 members in track, field, and cross-country, playing a key role in developing young athletes in the Bicester area.

Despite limited local facilities, the club fosters a safe and supportive environment focused on growth and competition. The funding provided will provide high-quality equipment to enhance training, reduce injury risk, and boost performance, helping athletes build confidence and reach their full potential.

Bodicote Sports Football Club

Bodicote Sports Football Club is home to 90 members, including 80 adults and 10 youth players. Following vandalism to their goalposts, funding will allow the club to replace essential equipment and continue hosting matches at their home pitch, keeping the game alive for players and local supporters alike.

Brackley Netball Club

Brackley Netball Club supports 80 members of all ages and abilities, offering a positive space to grow and connect through sport.

The club focuses on building confidence both on and off the court, with lessons in teamwork, communication, and personal development. The funding  will support two members in completing umpiring and coaching courses, strengthening the club’s future and empowering members to take on leadership roles.

Oxford Sports & Traditional Martial Arts Schools Ltd

Oxford Sports & Traditional Martial Arts Schools Ltd is a family-run club supporting members aged 4 to 67, and specialise in children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

The club promotes mental wellbeing through confidence-building martial arts classes, especially for young people facing challenges. Funding will help cover squad entry fees, equipment, and coaching support for underprivileged families by offering free courses to those who might not be able to afford them.

Summertown Stars AFC

Summertown Stars AFC is a thriving North Oxford club with over 800 members across 59 teams, and a growing presence in girls’ football.

Beyond the pitch, the club plays a vital community role by supporting refugees, running a match-day food hub, and promoting inclusion. These funds will help expand these initiatives, empower young players, and support vulnerable individuals, furthering the club’s mission to build a stronger, more inclusive community through football.

 

Through our grassroots initiative, we’re proud to support these incredible clubs that are making a real difference in their communities by fostering inclusion, building confidence, and creating opportunities for all. At Valda, we remain committed to empowering local talent and helping communities thrive, both on and off the field.

Read more about our grass roots sports grants