Wrexham University Welcomes First Kick4Life Student

Date: October 6, 2026

A footballer from Lesotho has become the first student to join Wrexham University through Kick4Life, a pioneering initiative designed to create opportunities through football, education and community development.

Kabelo Ngatane, 21, joined the University at the start of the autumn term to begin the Football and Community Development Foundation Degree at Wrexham University delivered in partnership with Wrexham AFC Foundation.

During his studies, Kabelo will gain hands-on experience through the Foundation to develop the knowledge and skills needed to use sport as a tool for positive social change.

Sarah Hilton, Senior Lecturer in Football and Coaching Science at Wrexham University, said: “Kabelo’s arrival marks an important milestone for the initiative which provides young people in Lesotho with access to higher education while combining academic study with practical experience in football and community development.

“Football has a unique ability to bring people together and create opportunities that extend far beyond the pitch. Through this partnership, we are demonstrating how education, sport and community engagement can work together to transform lives, strengthen communities and create international opportunities for young people.

“It is hoped the pathway will create further opportunities for young people from Lesotho to study in Wrexham and develop as future leaders within their communities.”

Steve Fleming from Kick4Life, added: “Kick4Life FC is a football club and social enterprise based in Lesotho which uses football as a vehicle for social change, education and community development. Wrexham AFC and Kick4Life FC launched a club twinning partnership in 2024 to create opportunities for a two-way exchange of knowledge, expertise and culture. Wrexham University joined an exchange trip to Lesotho in 2025, and this led to a further extension of the partnership, and ultimately to Kabelo's opportunity to study in Wales.

“Kabelo was selected for the opportunity based on his dedication and commitment at Kick4Life over many years, combined with excellent academics. He also has a strong interest in using football as a vehicle for social change, which he has demonstrated as a coach educator in Lesotho, and this made him an excellent fit for the Football and Community Development Foundation Degree at Wrexham University.”

Kabelo, said: "I've been with Kick4Life since I was seven years old. When I found out I had the opportunity to come to Wrexham I was really really excited! I've only been here a few weeks but I'm enjoying every minute. The people are all very friendly, and even though the local accent was a bit of a challenge for me to understand at first, I'm getting used to it now! I've made some friends and joined the University's football team, and I'm looking forward to being part of the Wrexham community, learning as much as I can - both academically and culturally, and seeing the impact that Wrexham AFC Foundation has.

“When I return home, I would like to use the skills I learn here to help positively impact my community and share all the knowledge I gain here."