Story added: 16th October 2026

Norwich City players support EFL Together Against Racism campaign at St Michael’s Junior School

More than 400 pupils at St Michael’s Junior School in Bowthorpe received a surprise visit from Norwich City players Jovon Makama and Caleb Ansen as part of the EFL’s Together Against Racism campaign. 

Delivered by Norwich City Community Sports Foundation, the special assembly explored the importance of inclusion, respect and tackling discrimination, while educating young people on how racism can be reported and challenged. 

The visit formed part of the EFL’s annual Together Against Racism campaign, which brings clubs, players, supporters and communities together to combat racism, promote inclusion and encourage the reporting of discriminatory behaviour both in stadiums and online. 

St Michael’s Junior School has worked closely with the Foundation for several years through a range of education programmes, including Premier League Primary Stars and the EFL’s Joy of moving initiative, helping pupils develop confidence, wellbeing and important life skills. 

During the assembly, pupils heard from the two Norwich City players about their journeys in football before taking part in a question-and-answer session focused on equality, inclusivity and standing together against racism. 

The event concluded with a number of pupils reading poems they had written about inclusion, Black History Month and standing against racism. Their thoughtful and creative work impressed both players, who took time to sign copies of the poems and chat with the children about their messages. 

Speaking after the visit, striker Jovon Makama said: 

“It was really nice to spend time with the children today and talk about standing up against racism. Caleb and I were able to answer their questions, share some of our experiences and hopefully help them understand the importance of supporting each other. 

“The poems were brilliant as well. You could see how much thought and effort had gone into them, and it was great to hear their messages about inclusion and respect.” 

Discussing the campaign, Makama added: 

“Together Against Racism is important because people need to know there are ways to report incidents and that there are people there to support them. Unfortunately, racism still exists, so it’s important that young people understand they can speak up and that they don’t have to deal with it on their own.” 

Goalkeeper Caleb Ansen also highlighted the importance of educating young people from an early age. 

“Together Against Racism is really important because there is no room for racism in football or society. It’s important that children understand what to do if they see or experience it and know there are people they can speak to. 

“We wanted the children to know that they should never be afraid to report discrimination and that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and included.” 

The Foundation’s Premier League Primary Stars Manager, Zac D’Rosario, said the player visit helped bring the campaign’s messages to life. 

“The children had been learning about Black History Month and discussing discrimination, inclusion and respect. Having Jovon and Caleb in school made those messages even more meaningful. 

“The pupils were incredibly proud to share their poems and it was fantastic to see the players taking the time to listen. Opportunities like this inspire young people, not only through football, but by helping them understand the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.” 

Deputy Headteacher Ollie Bennison praised the long-standing partnership between the school and the Foundation. 

“Having Norwich City Community Sports Foundation and the players in school today has been an outstanding experience for our children. The messages around inclusion and belonging are incredibly important and having role models deliver them makes a huge impact. 

“Our relationship with the Foundation has developed over the last seven or eight years and it continues to provide fantastic opportunities for our pupils. Days like today are memorable experiences that really stay with children and help reinforce important values.” 

The EFL’s Together Against Racism campaign runs from 16-26 October, highlighting the efforts clubs and communities make throughout the year to tackle discrimination, celebrate diversity and create more inclusive environments both on and off the pitch. The campaign also encourages people to report any racist or discriminatory behaviour they witness, helping to make football a safer and more welcoming game for everyone. 

To find out more about reporting racist or discriminatory behaviour at Norwich City matches, please visit the club’s reporting guide by clicking here.

To report discriminatory behaviour relating to Norwich City Community Sports Foundation programmes or activities, please click here.