Williams visited the charity’s Soccer Schools to talk to participants and coaches, whilst also acknowledging the thousands of pounds which have been donated as part of the proceeds of his book, You Saw Me Standing Alone.
At the session the City icon, and former CITC Ambassador, was introduced by CITC coaches.
He then briefly spoke with participants about his story and background before participants were given the opportunity to ask him questions on a range of topics around football and his career.
The session, which took place on the ‘Alex Williams MBE Community Pitch’, then continued as participants played mini games with Alex watching on.
Commenting on why City in the Community is so important to him, Alex said: “The Club when it started was all about bringing the community together and it makes me proud that, through CITC, we’ve been able to keep that ethos alive.
“It started back when, St Mark’s Church, West Gorton, brought people together and we’ve kept that tradition.
“It’s great to see so many young kids here today on the community pitch. It’s a fantastic CFA facility, so long may the great work continue.”
Following the day and visit, Alex also spoke about how much he enjoyed touring the book in the time since it was released, and how many times CITC has cropped up in the process.
Alex said: “CITC been discussed a lot, many of the City fans who live locally have been here since yesteryear and the book talks about lots of places and areas around Manchester that people can relate to, and that’s what has come back to me as feedback.
“It’s great for them to understand a bit more about my journey as I’m quite a quiet person and some of the things I’ve achieved have been a surprise to some. I don’t often shout about them, so it’s been really nice for them to come out with the book.”
You Saw Me Standing Alone depicts his lonely battle against racists who targeted one of the game’s first modern-day black goalkeepers.
You Saw Me Standing Alone is available from www.alexwilliamsbook.co.uk priced at £15. Part of proceeds will be donated to City in the Community.
GRAB YOUR COPY OF THE BOOK HERE
The CITC Soccer Schools have been running throughout the Summer holidays for young people aged 6-16 years and have provided a safe space for them to play football and keep active.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCmancity.
