Is Charlton right? As some of the
highest-paid people on the planet con- verge on South Africa for the biggest sporting event the world has ever seen, many would question whether the ability to kick a ball can ever justify the rewards that come with it. A couple of years ago, Gordon Brown urged foot- ballers to embrace their responsibilities to society: “Whether they like it or not, our footballers have a greater respon- sibility than anyone else, because they are so idolised and respected by our young people,” he said. England captain Rio Ferdinand cer-
tainly believes in the power of football: “You’ve got to use your position to say something that will inspire kids and motivate them to improve their lives. I believe we can do so much to help.”
But what’s happening in practice? I head for the South Coast first, on my mission to discover whether football still has heart and soul. David James, England goalie and captain of Ports- mouth, has a reputation as one of the good guys in the sport. “People have this terrible view of footballers, but the truth is there are only so many watches you can have; then you have to use your money to do something valuable in the world. I know Beckham does his bit.” David Beckham does indeed do his
SETTING GOALS: England goalkeeper David James (in the white T-shirt) is involved in a number of charities, but among the most impressive is the one he set up five years ago when the 39-year-old visited Malawi, the world’s fourth poorest country. “Over 90 per cent of the population live off the food they grow themselves,” he says. “Many of them can’t grow enough and starve.” He set up the David James Foundation, which pays for farmers to go out to Malawi and work with the native farmers to help them improve and make the most of their land. “If you can help, you should,” he argues.
bit. The most famous footballer in the world is a big giver to causes through the David and Victoria Beckham Chil- dren’s Charity. “You want to reach out and help everyone but you can’t, so I’ve set up the charity to work out where the help is needed,” he says. As well as the charity, Beckham is a
Unicef ambassador and invests in young footballers through the David Beckham Academy. “I started in football because I went to the Bobby Charlton Soccer and Sports Academy and the experience
watches you can have; then you have to use your money to do something valuable in the world” DAVID JAMES
“The truth is there are only so many
COURTESY OF DAVID JAMES FOUNDATION
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