Leeds United were proud to have welcomed our 2025/26 Premier League Community Champion Hope Gatewood to Elland Road for the game against Brentford on Saturday.

Hope was announced as Community Champion the week prior to the game, as first-team duo Ilia Gruev and Sam Byram presented her with the armband as part of the ongoing 'More Than A Game' initiative.

‘More Than A Game’ showcases the Premier League’s long-standing commitment to supporting the community activity of clubs at all levels of the game, whilst also providing an opportunity to celebrate the 2.5 million people who have participated in Premier League-funded community programmes.

During this instalment of ‘More Than A Game’ there is a focus on the League’s flagship community programme, Premier League Kicks, with our Community Captain being chosen through her link to the programme.

Hope has been delivering free football sessions for youngsters for the past five years, inspired by creating a positive and safe environment for children growing up in Little London, an area affected by gangs and antisocial behaviours, before landing a coaching role at the Leeds United Foundation.

On matchday, Hope was welcomed to Elland Road by Frances Milner, Foundation CEO, and other members of the club's official charity, as well as Club Ambassador Lucas Radebe. As part of her visit, she was also treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium before taking her seat to watch the match.

Everyone associated with the club is truly grateful for the courage and commitment Hope has shown over the last five years, empowering youngsters, boosting confidence and leadership and bridging the gap between local residents and the Foundation to help build inclusive communities.