Andrew Bascome through the ABC Football School and in partnership with his brother David Bascome founder of Bascome Enterprise and Power of One launched an appeal for donors for their youth programme, the programme is looking to raise $25,000.00.
An emotional Andrew Bascome said, “All I want to do, is just teach football and just give back to football and try to just help that one kid that might not have any hope and feel worthless and useless.
Bascome added, “You don’t know what kids are going through, I have been through that. I’ve been molested and it’s difficult, I don’t want the kids today to go through what I went through.”
“I was taken advantage of through football,” continued Bascome, “Because I loved the game, I did not like going to school because I lived at Sunshine League and we got teased everyday, but when I played football I became Andrew and not the guy they would normally tease.”
David Bascome said, “The Power if One Programme will work hand in hand as we will work toward team build and confidence in our young people.”
Bermuda Football Association President Mark Wade released a statement saying, “The Bermuda Football Association stands by Coach Andrew Bascome for speaking publicly of what he endured. He has served football as a player and coach with distinction whilst carrying this burden. We hope that his healing continues and his bravery is an inspiration to others.
We encourage those who continue to suffer in silence to make contact with the relevant authorities and other help agencies. Our sport has always been a reflection of life and society and we endeavor to do what we can to ensure that our clubs are a safe haven.”