Football in Thanet has always been built on community. From youth teams taking their first steps in the game, to Sunday league battles, women’s football, academies and senior football, the area has a rich footballing culture with thousands of people dedicating their time to the sport every week
Now, a new facility has joined that football landscape, with the opening of Kix Arena, an indoor 3G football venue in Ramsgate.
Created by four local founders; Danny Stokes, Henry Piper, Ryan Moore and Luke Rothwell, with a shared passion for the game, Kix Arena has been designed to give players, coaches, clubs and football communities another place to train, develop and enjoy football throughout the year.
Located on Whitehall Road Industrial Estate, the facility offers five-a-side and three-a-side pitch hire, a dedicated coaching lane with training equipment, and tennis football, giving players opportunities to work on their technique, improve their skills and enjoy competitive football in a different format.
The idea behind Kix Arena came from experiencing football from different perspectives.
Between the four founders, there is a mix of grassroots coaching, playing experience, football parenting and business knowledge – but the common factor is a belief in the positive impact football can have on people of all ages.
Co-founder Danny Stokes has spent years coaching grassroots teams and has seen first-hand how football can help young players build confidence, friendships and a love for the game.
Henry’s football journey has centred around creating opportunities for girls, having set up a team to give young female players the chance to enjoy and develop within the sport.
Ryan brings experience from both playing and coaching, having represented local Kent clubs before moving into grassroots development and helping young players improve and progress.
Luke’s connection to football comes through the eyes of a parent, having spent many years experiencing grassroots football from the touchline – from early morning matches to the challenges faced by players, coaches and families.
Together the founders hope Kix Arena can become a valuable addition to the Thanet football community, supporting players and teams from across the area.
The facility provides an all-weather option for clubs looking for additional training space, coaches wanting somewhere to work on player development, or groups simply wanting to enjoy the game with friends.
Looking ahead, the team has ambitions to continue developing Kix Arena, including introducing interactive football experiences and exploring opportunities to work alongside local clubs, schools and community organisations.
For the team behind Kix Arena the goal is simple – to create a place where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy football, develop their skills and feel part of the football community.
With football continuing to grow across Thanet, Kix Arena hopes to play its part in supporting the players, coaches and clubs who make the local game what it is.
