Inquisitive youngsters aspiring to become professional sports stars got the opportunity to glean tips from Blades hero Steve Simonsen.

The goalie visited Stradbroke Primary School, one of the United Initiative's key school partners, to meet children aged five to seven years old.

The pupils have spent the last five months working with the United Initiative to improve their agility, balance, ball and coordination skills.
Steve talked about his football career to date and took part in a question and answer session with the budding young sports stars.

Martin Fallon, Headteacher at Stradbroke School said: "With over 90 children present there was no shortage of questions and Steve was able to provide the children with some great insight in what it is like to be a professional footballer. The feedback was tremendous and both the children and teachers were excited and impressed by Steve who was a great ambassador for the club."

Patrick Piearcey, United Initiative community health officer, also said: "Steve was fantastic and the children were excited to have a first team player attend their school. These children have worked really hard over the last few months and it was a fitting reward for their endeavor. I would like to thank Steve for his honest response to the children's questions and for providing the children with the motivation to do well at school and in their sport."

The United Initiative, which is the club's community division, has enhanced the Blades' programme of activity with schools and community groups around Sheffield. It uses sport as a tool to reach out to people of all ages.

Pupils at Stradbroke Primary School are currently involved in school work which focuses on the importance of physical activity and team work, plus the personal attributes needed to be successful in sport and in life. This links directly to the National Every Child Matters agenda.