London Lions’ Justin Robinson highlights importance of sport to city communities

Sports clubs must continue to play a prominent role in helping people from ethnic minorities feel a sense of belonging and offer the support to challenge social issues head on, according to London Lions captain Justin Robinson.

As the country looks toward life returning to some degree of normality following the difficulties of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, engaging in active sport remains a positive outlet for many.

Research commissioned by the Lions revealed 37 per cent of people from ethnic minorities felt most included within their community and peers when playing sports.

Part of the study, which was conducted across a nationally representative cohort of 2,090 respondents, also showed 42 per cent of people from ethnic minorities feel they would have been more likely to deviate away from anti-social activities in their youth if they had greater access to sport and community programmes.

Robinson grew up in Brixton before going on to further his basketball career in the United States collegiate system.

The 34-year-old point guard still has close ties to the south London district and believes projects such as those initiated through the London Lions Foundation can make a real difference.

Robinson told the PA news agency: “Especially in the city communities, I think they are imperative really for the kids, because it gives them a sense of belonging.

“It is probably even more so now, especially with the lockdown. A lot of the kids have been out of school and stuck back at home, where we know there can be all kinds of issues for different families.

“To be honest, I think things have gotten worse than when I was growing up.

“A lot of public funds have been cut and a lot of the local youth centres have been shut down –