Teaming up for strength and friendship is what Pokemon is all about. It’s been that way since Pikachu’s first Poke Ball refusal, and now it’s a philosophy The Pokemon Company is embracing IRL. Its partnership with the English Schools’ Football Association helped over 250,000 kids participate in local athletics in 2024. Now, the two organizations are setting their sights even higher. As Schools’ Football Week kicks off in the U.K. during March and April, the Pokemon Company has progress in mind. With more schools and students involved in the program, hopes are flying high as Zapdos. Here’s what you need to know.
The Pokemon Company and ESFA Partner Up
According to its joint announcement with the ESFA, The Pokemon Company is looking for 250 “trailblazer” schools to work in 2025. The goal? Improve students’ lives by improving access to scholastic soccer. Trailblazing schools will pledge to carry out activities for their pupils on and off the pitch. That includes fostering friendship and cooperation. To help with this goal, SFW Trailblazers will receive resources such as Pokemon-emblazoned apparel and equipment. Collaborating with scholastic athletics programs is a free layup for a brand with the global recognition and pull of Ash and the gang.
The Pokemon Company might not look like Rayquaza, but it’s been a legendary partner for Schools’ Football Week. There’s a huge overlap between imagination, education, athletics, and fun, and it seems both partners are making the most of it. Getting kids moving? Teaching the history of the sport in various countries? Creating art? Check, check, and check. The Pokemon / SFW collab might be new, but The Pokemon Company is a long-term partner of the ESFA. Although their 2025 collaboration is just beginning, it’s a great year to hit the pitch and show Hitmonlee what a real Mega Kick looks like.
