Kick It Out have announced that Troy Townsend MBE, their head of player engagement and former chair, will leave the anti-discrimination football charity at the end of June after 13 years.
Townsend, a former youth footballer at Millwall and Crystal Palace and father of ex-England winger Andros, joined Kick It Out in 2011.
He was awarded an MBE in December for services to “diversity and inclusion in association football”.
Townsend introduced and led a number of initiatives during his time at Kick It Out, including leading the organisation’s ‘Raise Your Game’ programme, which since 2012 has helped young people from diverse backgrounds take their first steps in securing a range of jobs across the football industry.
In a Kick It Out statement, Townsend said: “It’s been an incredible journey for someone who walked in the door as a volunteer, hoping to prove I was worth a full-time role. I am unbelievably grateful they saw that in me.
“The work continues at a relentless pace, and after serving my time, it feels like the right moment for a change and to perhaps look after myself a little bit better.
“I cannot deny that the many ups and downs over 13 years have taken their toll at times, but I’m very grateful for the influence I’ve had and how I’ve managed to empower many in this space, particularly the players.”
Kick It Out’s CEO, Tony Burnett, added: “Troy’s impact on the football landscape cannot be overstated. His tireless commitment to calling out discrimination means he leaves Kick it Out with the respect and admiration of those throughout the game.
“Football is indebted to Troy for his courage and tenacity in tackling some of the game’s biggest challenges and we thank him wholeheartedly for his unwavering commitment.
“Kick It Out wish Troy all the success and happiness for the future and will look forward to continuing to work with him on a consultancy basis.”
