Banking on the future of women’s football with the Kent Reliance Scholarship

Kent Reliance, a savings brand which is part of OSB Group, has partnered with XL@Football, an all-female football academy, to launch the Kent Reliance Football Scholarship Programme. The programme offers places to those who are financially vulnerable or for exceptionally talented players to develop to their maximum potential. With one place costing the club £500 per season, with the help of Kent Reliance, XL@Football are looking to offer eight places during the first season.

XL@Football and Kent Reliance first partnered in 2021 with the bank signing a 3 year deal as Club Sponsor supporting XL@Football’s senior, youth and coaching teams.

As part of the deal, Kent Reliance has chosen to donate the sponsorship advertising on the front of all match day, training and coaching kits to Demelza Hospice Care for Children, a charity that supports local families who have children with serious or terminal conditions. 

Stuart Grist, CEO, XL@Football said, “The partnership between XL@Football and Kent Reliance has been an exciting journey as we’ve been able to provide established players as well as newcomers with better opportunities to develop their football skills at all levels.

XL@Football and Kent Reliance know that some young people face financial barriers, especially at a time when everyone is struggling with living costs, so this sponsorship programme couldn’t have come at a better time. We strongly believe that a young person’s financial situation shouldn’t hamper ambition or talent – these opportunities should be open to all.”

Paul Whitlock, Group Managing Director of Savings at OSB Group said, “As a long standing savings provider with strong community roots, Kent Reliance is delighted that the partnership with XL@Football is providing real opportunities for young people wanting to get into football.

I’ve seen first-hand the club’s passion and desire for women’s football and it’s no surprise that it’s the fastest growing sport in the world.* With this partnership, we’re increasing the opportunities for our local communities to be part of this exciting sport.”

The Kent Reliance Sponsorship Programme is just one of a range of opportunities being offered by the club, which has recently built an under-18s team to bridge the gap for players between the youth team and the adult game.