Japhet checks in with Kicks participants

Japhet Tanganga has caught up with local young people on our Premier League Kicks programme in a live video Q&A.

With schools closed and activities like Kicks suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants are unable to come together and play football as they usually would.

The video call involved seven teenagers from the Tottenham area, who got the chance to ask Japhet questions about his own school years, his playing career so far and how he copes with the pressure of performing, week-in, week-out.

“It’s hard being new and coming into this environment... but I get a lot of advice from the manager and players who have been in the game longer... I use that advice and keep working hard,” Japhet told the group.

The Academy graduate also discussed how he has been keeping busy during the lockdown, taking part in virtual training sessions with his teammates and spending time with his family.

He added: “It’s brought my family closer... we’ve had fun and seen other sides to each other!”

Usually open to young people at 10 venues across Haringey, Premier League Kicks gives local youngsters access to free sports sessions after school and during school holidays.

Tottenham Hotspur Foundation staff are continuing to keep in touch with participants during the pandemic using technology including video calls, virtual yoga classes and our home workout programme, Shape Up With Spurs.