County captain Labadie and ex-skipper Pipe launch academy

Kixx Newport, based at football and fitness centre Carbon Fiit in Usk Way, opened with around 100 children attending the opening sessions.

The first event was a huge success with all sessions available being fully booked up and enjoyed by around 100 children and with midfielder Labadie excited about what it means for local young talents.

The 30-year-old, who captained County to another cup upset against Swansea City, said: “The launch on Saturday was just incredible. We really couldn’t have wished for it to go any better than it did.

“All the sessions were fully booked up for the launch and discovery day which meant the atmosphere was just absolutely electric.

“Everybody really seemed to be having a fantastic time and seeing so many children laughing, smiling and getting active was truly an awesome thing to witness.

“It was a truly proud moment for myself and David with us both having very strong ties to the city, and now we are given this amazing opportunity to make a huge impact and help make a difference to the lives of many children in Newport.

“Everything that our Kixx Academies will do as a brand, will all be about making a positive im-pact on every child, and at every opportunity. This is an awesome mission to have as a business. ”

Pipe, who won a cap for Wales in 2003 and made over 200 appearances for County during two spells with the club, is looking to help young players of all abilities.

“Kixx as a business and a brand nationally, its family values, passion, care and overall goals, match up to mine and Labs’ and what we want to achieve in Newport,” said the 36-year-old, who led the Exiles back to the Football League in 2013.

“We have some amazing facilities at Carbon Fiit and it will be the home for our Kixx Newport Academies.

“The best thing about Kixx is that it’s for all children regardless of ability. We will help build con-fidence and not only skills for on the pitch, but for off the pitch too.

“Football as a child is just something you should enjoy, to have a laugh with friends and to create memories that will last with you forever.

“Last weekend felt truly amazing to be a part of and we would like to thank all the parents and children who attended.

“Many of attendees actually booked on back in March before the entire world went into lockdown, so we are sincerely humbled by the level of support and patience that has been shown to Kixx Newport at the start of our journey.”

For information on booking visit kixx.org.uk or go to the Kixx Newport Facebook page.