Premier Elite Soccer Academy has been crowned Bromley’s local winners of the ‘Behind the Badge’ competition– a nationwide campaign from Official Partner of the EFL, Sage, that shines a spotlight on the small businesses that serve their local communities.
The recognition is a key moment in Sage’s recently announced partnership with the EFL, which is focused on championing the small and mid-sized businesses that keep their communities thriving.
Earlier this year Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR, and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses and Official Accounting Software Partner of the EFL, called on fans across all EFL Clubs to nominate businesses who make a real difference within their local communities, from barbers and cafés to plumbers and printers.
The Academy was chosen alongside a long list of fellow small businesses from across the country who have won match tickets and a suite of Sage products to help them thrive, as well as local marketing and promotion across Sage, EFL and Club channels.
Premier Elite Soccer Academy is an active part of the local football scene in Kent, delivering fun, inclusive coaching sessions to children of all ages and abilities. Working closely with schools and community venues, the academy runs daily sessions that help young players build confidence, stay active, and fall in love with the beautiful game.
Within the selected small business winners, three grand prize winners have also won bespoke sponsorship packages with their local Club in each EFL Division. These businesses are Chris’s Fish & Chips (Leicester City, Sky Bet Championship), Prime Time Plumbing (Bradford City, Sky Bet League One), and Monarch Mortgages (Gillingham, Sky Bet League Two).
Louis Skeiky, Head Coach and Company Director of the Academy said, ” From free local sessions to themed fun days and school holiday events, we’re passionate about making football accessible to everyone – whether it’s a child’s first kick or a chance to sharpen their skills. The team has seen first-hand how football can inspire, with some older players even expressing interest in coaching themselves one day. With heartfelt support from parents and carers, and a growing reputation for creating positive experiences, Premier Elite is proud to be making a difference both on and off the pitch.”
Sally Moore, Global Head of Sponsorship at Sage, comments, “Premier Elite Soccer Academy stood out for its unwavering support for the local Kent football community and its deep-rooted passion for the club. Behind every EFL Club is a dedicated network of small businesses working tirelessly to make a difference in their communities. Sage is proud to celebrate the businesses behind the badge who consistently support their communities and the Clubs they love.”
Emma Jones, UK Small Business Commissioner (CBE), complemented the initiative, stating “The winners of Sage’s Behind the Badge competition exemplify the vital role small businesses play in strengthening our communities. These entrepreneurs are the backbone of local economies, driving growth and creating opportunities for people in towns and cities across the country every weekend. We must continue to recognise and support their work to ensure their continued prosperity in the communities they serve.”
The small business will be celebrated during the Sage Small Business Spotlight, which runs from 24th November across all three EFL Sky Bet leagues. Find out more about the businesses behind the badge and how Sage can support you for free at: www.sage.com/en-gb/blog/heroes-of-the-efl/
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