As a parent of two junior team players, the Ballysillan Swifts' football pitch issue is close to my heart. My children, together with their teammates, have been striving to improve their skills, nurturing their love for football and wanted to continue to do so on this pitch that had been a promised territory to Ballysillan Swifts football club for over a decade. Sadly, the Belfast City Council has chosen to reassign it to another team. This action not only threatens our children's sporting futures, but also goes against a commitment that was made years ago to the whole club.

Ballysillan Swifts are more than just a group of footballers. They represent a community, are a symbol of perseverance, dedication, and unity. Handing over the pitch built with their hard work to another team is not merely an allocation decision; it means disrupting the community's sense of belonging and undermining the trusted relationship between the public and the Council. This is not just about the pitch this is about community around the club also.

According to a report by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, UK, participation in sport significantly contributes to community cohesion, improves physical health, and promotes personal development among young people. Our children deserve the right to thrive in a stable environment where promises are kept. 

Let us unite and take a stand against the Belfast City Council’s insufficiently justified decision. Show support to our future generation who deserves to play on a pitch that was long-promised to them. Sign this petition to back the Ballysillan Swifts and stand for the integrity of our community agreements.