Together, the two organisations will be working closely on community-based projects across the local area. Both share a commitment to supporting young people and local families through the power of football, education and health.

Eastbourne Borough Football Club already delivers a number of initiatives within the community, including after-school clubs in local schools, PE delivery and their award-winning Spirit of Football disability programme.

Founded in 2017, The Russell Martin Foundation supports young people through education, football and wellbeing programmes. In recent years the charity has received multiple national recognitions, including being named Best Sports Community Scheme 2025 for its Education – Make A Difference programme, alongside praise from the PFA in both 2023 and 2026.

Speaking about the partnership, Alan Sanders, CEO of The Russell Martin Foundation, said:

“Working in partnership with Eastbourne Borough FC is a natural fit for us. The club’s vision for supporting the local community closely mirrors our own values and the work we deliver every day.

“We’re really excited about what we can achieve together – combining our experience in education and community programmes with the great work already being delivered by the club.”

Eastbourne Borough Chief Executive Alan Williams also welcomed the collaboration:

“The work of The Russell Martin Foundation is exemplary and we are delighted to be working together as we continue to grow our community engagement.

“With the experience and leadership that Alan Sanders brings, along with the brilliant work already laid by Brad Boyle, this partnership gives us a fantastic opportunity to build a community scheme we can all be proud of.”

The partnership will see the two organisations collaborate on a range of projects designed to create more opportunities for young people and strengthen community provision across the region.

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