A new phase of Stormzy’s ongoing partnership with adidas has just been announced, incorporating music, football and gaming.
#Merky FC HQ is a new multi-purpose centre for young people to access football pitches, a state-of-the-art recording studio, a sports gaming hub and multipurpose rooms. The new centre is built on the existing football site known as Selhurst Sports Arena, a space managed by Communities First Foundation.
The venue will continue to be open to the local community, offering year-round events and educational activities.
Stormzy said: “I’m gassed that we can finally open the doors to #Merky FC HQ. Working with adidas, I’ve wanted to do this for a long, long time and now there’s a community space that everyone in the area will be able to use and benefit from. When I was growing up, there was nothing like this around for young people, so it means a lot that we now have a facility like this in Croydon. Proper homegrown!”
Steve Marks, Senior Director Brand Communications, adidas, said: “We’re proud to launch #Merky FC HQ, the next chapter in adidas’ ongoing partnership with Stormzy. Supporting the development of spaces for the local community to connect, play and collaborate is a vital part of our ongoing drive to cultivate opportunities for young people. The centre is a space for everyone including those who enjoy taking part in football, but also for the discovery of other creative passions such as music and esports.”
Also built into the new project is a collaboration with EA Sports that adds an off-pitch element where young people can access all the latest consoles and streaming tech.
Ewemade Orobator, Deputy Director of Operations, Community First, said: “#Merky FC HQ will offer endless possibilities in a much-needed community space. It is hugely exciting to be working alongside adidas and Stormzy to deliver a range of impactful programmes that will empower and inspire Croydon residents and beyond.”
James Salmon, Senior Director Brand at EA SPORTS FC, continued, “We’re thrilled to support #MerkyFC HQ in providing new opportunities for young people to grow their passion for sports on and off the pitch. We recognise that improving access to first-class facilities is a vital step in helping communities to fulfil their potential and pursue their creative interests.”
