Davies backs Kick It Out campaign

Ben Davies went back to school as part of his role as Swansea City's Kick It Out ambassador ahead of this weekend's Barclays Premier League clash with West Brom.

After a two-week break, the Swans return to league action on Saturday against the Baggies, in what will be a fixture dedicated to Kick It Out's 'Season of Action' initiative.

And Davies, who is one of Kick It Out's 'Next 20' ambassadors, paid a visit to Welsh-speaking Neath Primary School to talk to the pupils about his career and to promote the anti-racism campaign.

The 'Next 20', which forms a part of Kick It Out's 'Season of Action' to commemorate its 20-year anniversary, sees 20 young football stars raising awareness of the organisation by engaging with the younger members of their local community.

Speaking after signing photos and t-shirts for the school children, who also got their hands on the FA Cup that was being toured around schools, Davies explained why he feels it is crucial to help educate young people.

"I think it's massively important to get Kick It Out's message across to young people like the children here today," explained the Wales international.

"These kids look up to the players in our team, so hopefully we can educate them and help broaden their minds. 

"But also, most of them are following the Swans too, so I think it's great for us to go into schools and give something back to them for supporting us.

"It gives them a boost that someone local can actually come through and play at the top level with their hometown club. 

"If there are any footballers here, hopefully it gives them a bit of confidence too."

Meanwhile, Kick It Out's Paul Mortimer attended the event with Davies and expressed his delight at the full-back's contribution.

"I think he really embraced what being a 'Next 20' ambassador is all about," said the former Charlton Athletic and Aston Villa midfielder.

"Communities are a huge part of football clubs, and when you have someone from your community who has managed to become a professional footballer, it's important to create those links.

"I think it's fantastic for the kids because you can see how much they love it and the reason for that is because they can look up to him and see that he is one of them. 

"He's a local boy, he has an affinity with the area and I think it's a fantastic way to give back to these young kids." 

During the warm-up before kick-off on Saturday, both Swansea City and West Brom will wear Kick It Out t-shirts in support of the campaign.