NewsWataru Endo and Giovanni Leoni surprise local primary school children with LFC Foundation

The Liverpool duo arrived at the school in Knowsley last week for the final lesson of the day, joining pupils in a sports-based session led by LFC Foundation coaches, giving them an afternoon to remember.

The surprise visit sparked unforgettable reactions from the pupils, with one child bursting into tears of happiness when Endo and Leoni entered the hall. After the excitement settled, the youngsters quickly put the players to the test through a series of mini-games and drills led by LFC Foundation coaches.

Speaking after the session, Leoni said: “It’s really good to see the kids have fun and enjoy the day and I hope to be able to do this more.

“I have a lot of memories from when I was the same age as them, so it’s good to come here and spend time with them. It means a lot to me when you see how happy it makes them, and it’s one of the best things to do as a footballer.”

Endo added: “They had so much fun and they enjoyed their time with us, and we had fun too, so it is always a great thing to do.

“As players, we can show ourselves on the pitch but also off the pitch and it’s important to do these things as footballers, and we are always happy to support LFC Foundation.”

The Premier League Primary Stars programme, which is funded by the Premier League Foundation and delivered by LFC Foundation, uses the appeal of football to help children be active and develop essential life skills.

Colin Contini, director of operations at LFC Foundation, said: “It was fantastic to welcome Wataru and Giovanni to Hope Primary School and see the excitement their visit created.

“Through Premier League Primary Stars, we use the power of Liverpool FC and football to inspire young people to be active, build confidence and develop important life skills. Visits like this create lasting memories and help reinforce the positive impact sport can have on young people.”

Last season, LFC Foundation engaged more than 10,000 primary school children through the programme, which included in-school activation, non-curricular activity and virtual support.

Read more about the Premier League Primary Stars programme here.