Japanese-inspired restaurant chain wagamama’s Bath outlet has kitted out football team Larkhall Athletic Youth FC in a partnership that has also played up the importance of healthy eating.
Like most kids’ teams, Larkhall’s players had relied on shirts and shorts handed down by older teams within the club.
But the boys are now turning out for matches in a new royal blue and white kit supplied by wagamama’s George St restaurant, which is also providing a range of essential training equipment. 
The boys proudly took to the pitch wearing the new kit for the first time last Sunday against Warmley Rangers.
To kick off the link-up, Larkhall Athletic Youth’s under-10s team were invited to the restaurant for a Japanese-inspired team meal prepared by chef Tomasz Marciniak, who also gave them cooking masterclass featuring fresh ingredients, guaranteed to give the boys fuel ahead of the new season.
Wagamama’s support for the team forms part of a film shot by Neighbourly, the Bath firm which connects community projects with companies wishing to make a difference, which follows the team’s journey over the past few months. The film is being released online this month.
Following a successful year, Larkhall will continue to be trained by local coach Ashley Hamilton who will oversee them in the Hanham Minor League, playing against teams from Bath, Somerset, Bristol and Wilshire.
Wagamama general manager Natalia Lopes said: “We are proud to be supporting the local community through our sponsorship of Larkhall Athletic FC. 
“At wagamama we firmly believe in living a positive and healthy lifestyle, so what better way to bring this to life than a partnership with the club, kicking off with a team meal here at our restaurant. We wish them the best of luck.”
Wagamama, which opened its first restaurant in London’s Bloomsbury in 1992, now operates in 18 countries. It is owned by Duke Street Capital.
