Sharing the story of siblings Kian and Kiera, who have both benefitted from the programmes offered by Cardiff City FC Community Foundation as childhood Bluebirds...
For brother and sister, Kian and Kiera - football has always been more than just a game—it has been a constant thread weaving through their family life, bringing them closer together. With their Dad being a proud super fan of Cardiff City Football Club, their home-life heavily revolved around Cardiff City FC, with even their mum—who had little interest in the game—keeping up with the team’s results just to gauge the mood of the house.
Growing up, Kiera admired her brother Kian, following in his footsteps both on and off the field. Watching him play and train inspired her own footballing ambitions, even though opportunities for girls in the sport were limited at the time.
However, at High School, both siblings were presented with their own set of challenges. Kiera initially struggled to stay engaged in her lessons, often feeling uninspired by her core subjects. But, she seemed to always gravitate toward physical education where she could channel her love of football.
Similarly, Kian found it difficult to engage with academic content, preferring active learning environments. At 14, he took up coaching to stay involved in football outside of school, developing a passion that would later map out future career aspirations.
After obtaining their GCSE results, both Kian and Kiera found their ideal educational pathway through Cardiff City FC Community Foundation. Initially for Kian, the Club's influence sparked his curiosity, shortly becoming a turning point for his confidence and self-esteem. Kiera, inspired by Kian’s journey, followed suit, enrolling in the same programme.
Ran in partnership with Cardiff & Vale College, the NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport & Activity course provides a welcoming and supportive environment fit for students like Kian and Kiera, seeking a non-traditional learning environment with the desire to secure a high-quality qualification.
Kiera has thrived in the Foundation’s unique setting, securing a sessional staff contract that allows her to gain hands-on work experience delivering sessions in primary schools. Aspiring to become a primary school teacher, she values the real-world experience discovered through Soccer Schools and the Cardiff City Stadium Sensory room.
One of the most unique aspects of the Further Education provision is that our student's time is split between theory and practical learning, on the Futsal court. Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced small-sided football match. The game places a large emphasis on technical skill-and-ability in situations of high pressure.
Kiera has played a pivotal role in her Futsal team’s success, helping Cardiff and Vale College Women's Team win their final against Coleg y Cymoedd—a victory that restored her confidence after a challenging season.
Kian, on the other hand, continues to refine his coaching skills, aspiring to work in Academy coaching while leading Treforest Women to further success in his spare time. Since passing the NCFE qualification with flying colours, he transitioned into the Foundation degree in Community Football Coaching and Development.
Working closely with partners, the University of South Wales and EFL in the Community, the foundation degree qualification is delivered through an online learning platform alongside smaller classroom time for more personalised learning to take place. Beyond the academic elements of the course, students gain practical experience through up to 200 hours of voluntary coaching within the community the charity serves.
The foundation degree has provided Kian with meaningful opportunities to acquire coaching badges, volunteer in schools, and meet Cardiff City FC managers and players, equipping him with the tools and resilience for a future in sports coaching. Beside his sister, Kiera, they've both immersed themselves into Community Foundation events, student open evenings and taster days, evolving into key learner voices behind our work and valuable assets to the charity.
Kiera and Kian’s journey through the Foundation is living proof of the power of football—personifying a support network that unites families and drives success on and off the pitch. Football has shaped their aspirations, strengthened their bonds, and set them on paths to bright futures, proving that the Cardiff City FC badge represents more than a club—it represents a true sense of belonging.
Cardiff City FC Community Foundation is giving young people aged 16-19 the opportunity to learn more about the Level 2 and Level 3 Sport courses we offer at a Taster Day on the 15th and 16th April at Cardiff City House of Sport.
This year, they’ve introduced a dedicated Girls Only session to create a supportive space for girls to get involved! Sign up here.
Kian Lacey:
"The Foundation has given me the confidence to turn my passion for football into a career, but more than that, it’s made me feel part of something bigger. Growing up, Cardiff City FC was a huge part of our lives, and now, being able to represent the club in my education and coaching journey is a dream come true. I’d highly recommend these courses to anyone who wants a hands-on learning experience that sets you up for real-world, professional opportunities."
Kiera Lacey:
"Studying with the Foundation has been a game-changer. The mix of classroom learning and practical experience has helped me find my confidence, and the discovery of futsal has been a key part of that. Cardiff City FC has always been part of our family, and now, wearing the badge every day, I feel connected to something special. If you love football and want a course that truly supports you, this is the place to be!"