Shiloh’s story

Age 17

From the age of six, Shiloh’s life was shaped by instability, negative influences, and the absence of positive role models in the community. Instead of a childhood built on safety and encouragement, he experienced disruption, exclusion, and a lack of the support he desperately needed.

His struggles with behaviour led to him being excluded from primary school – something he describes as a moment that “ignited the fire” down the wrong path. Instead of receiving the help that could have set him back on track, each exclusion reinforced the idea that failure was inevitable.

By the time he reached secondary school, Shiloh had attended a Pupil Referral Unit where he acted out to gain respect from peers, only to find the cycle of poor behaviour and lack of support continuing. Returning to mainstream education, the pattern escalated. Over his school years, Shiloh was excluded 75 times before being permanently removed from Year 11.

This instability pushed Shiloh further away from education and closer to the streets. With limited opportunities and a need for belonging, he became involved in knife crime. The consequences were devastating – his best friend lost his life to violence. At just 16, Shiloh himself was placed on probation, facing a future that seemed dominated by crime and lost potential.

“AT SPORT 4 LIFE, I’VE MET people who genuinely believe in me and want to support me ”

The Turning Point

It was at this crucial moment that Shiloh was introduced to Sport 4 Life UK through his probation officer. For the first time, he encountered an opportunity that offered him not punishment, but belief, encouragement, and a chance to build a different future.

Shiloh joined Sport 4 Life’s Summer Jobs Programme, where he took part in a six-week sports coaching placement. Through this initiative, he:

  • Delivered sessions at Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programmes.

  • Supported and mentored younger children.

  • Worked as part of a team.

  • Built vital communication and leadership skills.

For Shiloh, this was more than just work experience, it was a community of people who believed in him.
“I’ve met so many friendly staff members – people who genuinely believe in me and want to support me. Rhys has taught me a lot, he believes in me and helps me believe in myself.”

The Impact

The difference has been transformative. Shiloh has:

  • Successfully completed his programme with Sport 4 Life.

  • Continued to work with the organisation at events, valued for his attitude and commitment.

  • Rebuilt his confidence and self-belief.

  • Developed aspirations for his future.

He is now enrolled at college to study music and has ambitions to pursue a career in the automotive industry, goals that once seemed out of reach. Importantly, he is also committed to giving back, using his experience to support other young people at Sport 4 Life.

Looking Ahead

Shiloh’s story is one of resilience, and the power of the right intervention at the right time. His advice to other young people is simple but powerful:


“Sport 4 Life isn’t what you think it is – give it a chance, take on opportunities, and most importantly, believe in yourself. The support they provide could change your life, but only if you want it to.”