Foundation of Light’s ‘Design a Ball’ competition has seen many supporters step up to the challenge with scores of entries flooding in as part of the creative contest.

As part of the competition Fans were asked to design a football to be used by Sunderland AFC’s official charity during their annual showcase matchday at the Stadium of Light.

From over 200 impressive entries three finalists have been chosen with designs from North East pupils. 

Lambton Primary School pupil Adrian Britton and St Mary’s Primary School pupils Ava Hunter and Eleanor have made the shortlist.

The Northern Echo: Luke O'Nien holding Eleanor's design

Ten-year-old Ava chose to use the colours of the Black Cats’ change kit to bring her design to life; while Eleanor used the ‘Ha’way the Lads’ and ‘Ha’way the Lasses’ rally cries as the focus of her football design.

The Northern Echo: Trai Hume holding Ava Hunter's design

Season card holder Adrian from Washington said he wanted to highlight passion and pride, so he incorporated the famous Black Cats eyes from the Stadium of Light display, as well as including the Foundation of Light’s Heart on Your Sleeve logo.

The Northern Echo: Jobe Bellingham holding Adrian Brittons football design

Foundation of Light Managing Director, Jamie Wright said: “We’ve been delighted with the response from supporters to the contest. It’s a really great initiative from Alive and Kicking - not only will fans have the chance to see their creation brought to life with this one-of-a-kind competition, but they’re also championing sustainability and positive social impact.”

Now the three finalists have been chosen the amazing trio of designs will be put to a vote to decide which creation will brought to life in this one-of-a-kind competition.

The most popular design will then be produced and made available to buy from the Beacon of Light.

The football will also be used during the half-time pitch activities when Foundation of Light have their annual dedicated matchday later in the season.

The ‘Design a Ball’ competition is a special collaboration with Alive and Kicking, the world’s only not for profit football manufacturer use the lifecycle of a football to grow and strengthen communities.

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Alive and Kicking are known for creating ethical jobs for adults facing difficult circumstances, they give opportunities to employees with no formal work experience or education allowing them to have access to benefits, including a fair wage, health care and a pension scheme.

Using the profits made from selling footballs, Alive and Kicking ensure young people have free and safe access to football and mental health education.

Supporters can have their say on any of the Foundation of Light’s social media channels – X formerly Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, with further information available at www.foundationoflight.co.uk