More Than Just a Jersey: The Story Behind OSCAR’s Kit Distribution

On the surface, a football kit may look like just a jersey, a pair of shoes, and some basic equipment. But at OSCAR Foundation, each kit carries a much deeper meaning. It is not only about preparing children for training—it is about creating a sense of equality, belonging, and opportunity for every child who steps onto the field.

From the moment a child receives their OSCAR jersey, they become part of something bigger. No one feels left behind, and everyone starts their journey on the same footing. For children who often face social or financial barriers, that jersey becomes a symbol of inclusion—a quiet but powerful reminder that they belong.

Playing Without Barriers

Training sessions at OSCAR are more than just drills and matches; they are spaces where children learn discipline, teamwork, and life skills. The right kit makes it possible for every child to fully participate in these sessions. Shoes that fit the surface—turf shoes for artificial pitches, studs for mud or grass—ensure safety and allow children to play freely, without fear of injury. Equipped with proper gear, the children gain confidence not only to play better but also to learn with focus and joy.

A Team Effort Beyond the Field

Behind each kit distribution is a story of collaboration across the OSCAR team. Coaches share schedules with children and parents. The M&E team keeps meticulous records. Accounts monitor the financial flows, Admin ensures the stock is in place, and the Program team makes sure everything comes together seamlessly. This harmony across departments is what ensures that when the day arrives, every child receives their kit smoothly, on time, and with excitement.

Scaling Up, Reaching More

This year, the scale of our kit distribution is bigger than ever before. With more than a hundred batches running—each with 30 to 35 children—we are reaching close to 3,000 young people across our programme locations. Each child receives a kit that makes them game-ready, but more importantly, it gives them the confidence that they are part of a shared journey of growth, learning, and opportunity.

A Symbol of Belonging

At OSCAR Foundation, we believe that sport is not just about the game, but about levelling the playing field of life. A jersey, a pair of shoes, a set of gear—these are not just tools for training. They are symbols of hope, equality, and inclusion. They tell every child: You belong here. You have the right to play. You have the chance to dream.

And that, more than anything, is why kit distribution at OSCAR is so much more than handing out equipment. It is about building confidence, nurturing potential, and reminding every child that they matter.

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