The Sir Stanley Matthews Foundation was established in 2001. The Icelandic Consortium which was in charge at Stoke City FC and one of the directors, Phil Rawlins, were the prime movers in the setting ...
The Sir Stanley Matthews Foundation was established in 2001. The Icelandic Consortium which was in charge at Stoke City FC and one of the directors, Phil Rawlins, were the prime movers in the setting up of the Foundation and presenting it with two aims. The first was to create a statue in memory of Sir Stan who had died in February of that year. The second was to create opportunities for youngsters to develop their sporting disciplines. A Foundation Committee was put in place and the first annual dinner was held in February 2001 to commemorate Sir Stan's birthday at the start of the month. This dinner has been the main fundraising event since the inception of the Foundation. Many important sporting icons have attended as guests of honour. The Foundation holds an annual Wear It With Pride Day which contributes to the finances. Many schools and businesses take part in this particular event. The Foundation appreciates any offers of financial support and methods of making payments are outlined on forthcoming pages. Having created the statue the emphasis is now concentrated on giving youngsters the opportunities to develop their sporting disciplines. Individuals, groups and clubs apply for financial help and a sub-committee appraises the applications and makes grants where applicable. Children in local schools are coached by students from Stoke-on-Trent College and the Foundation provides equipment for these educational establishments following the conclusion of the coaching activities. The coaching is paid for by the Foundation. Registered Charity Number 1092803