Norwich City FC’s Josh Sargent makes surprise visit to see the Mad Dawgs youth program at RAF Mildenhall

RAF Mildenhall had a surprise visit from a Norwich City footballer as part of the Championship club’s commitment to make the sport accessible for all.

Striker Josh Sargent, who also has 23 caps for the US national side, came on December 1 as part of the Canaries’ official charity, the Community Sports Foundation which works with the base to deliver regular soccer schools to a mixture of British and American children.

The 23-year-old found out more about the site’s youth program team called the RAF Mildenhall Mad Dawgs, took part in a Q&A session, signed items and had a group picture – before heading out to the base’s plaza to watch the Christmas light switch-on with families and base officials.

Chad Barkalow, RAF Mildenhall youth sports director, said: “Having a sports star, especially an American footballer, in the UK come to visit our youth was amazing.

“Many of our youth were excited to see one of their sports heroes walking around the building and enjoyed having the opportunity to talk and meet with him.

“The youth have the great opportunity of living here overseas, but with all of the advantages of our location, it can mean that our kids miss family and friends back home. Josh shared his connection with staff and kids, being an American away from home for the holidays he felt a piece of home coming to the base.

“It was impactful for everyone to see a big-name athlete come in and share the same experiences as them, and think about being a sports star one day. Our kids are now more excited than ever about playing the sport, and I look forward to more opportunities like this in the future. GO DAWGS!”