National football star Declan Rice has partnered with Müller Rice – the Full On snack. Following a big win in Prague, Declan went back to his roots in Kingston to surprise the local children at their Saturday football training.
The 24-year-old midfielder made his surprise arrival at Dickerage Sports Centre in a bright red Müller Rice truck. Declan Rice then burst out from the top of the truck singing “Rice Rice Baby” into a megaphone. The children couldn’t believe their eyes – they abandoned their training to sprint across the grounds to meet Declan, a local hero in the community. Dickerage Sports Centre was the first place Declan played football from aged three and it was considered a second home by the now national football player.
Declan kicked things up a notch, leading the kids through a series of favourite drills that he did as a child on the very same grounds. Declan cheered on the children as they attempted penalties, kicking the ball into the Müller Rice targets, and celebrated their wins with high fives and flying hugs.
Declan then handed out delicious Müller Rice pots in a variety of flavours to the children before answering their questions. The children interrogated Declan, learning everything from his favourite video game (FIFA), and his favourite song (Ice Ice Baby) to his favourite pre-game meal (LOTS of rice). He also revealed that his top West Ham player is Mark Noble and that the most special moment of his career was holding the trophy at the UEFA Europa Conference League final earlier this month.
Finally, Declan reunited with his mentor at Dickerage Sports Centre, Daniel Slocombe, who encouraged Declan to pursue football from a young age. Speaking of Declan, Daniel said “he was the most talented sportsman I’ve ever seen – hundred percent!”. He then showed local hero Declan a wall dedicated to his career, celebrating his success and inspiring those who want to follow in his footsteps.
Lushanthi Edirisooriya, Brand Manager for Müller, has said: “We are thrilled to have Declan partnering with Müller Rice and it was absolutely brilliant to see him share his enthusiasm for the product with his local community.”
Declan Rice has said: “It’s been incredible to come back to Dickerage – I spent a lot of my childhood here. It’s been great to see so many old friends and familiar faces and spend time with them. Thanks to Müller for bringing it all together and giving them a day they won’t forget.”
Daniel Slocombe, Centre Manager and someone who has known Declan since he was 8, has said: “Declan has worked so hard to get where he is. It’s amazing to watch him and see that path. Despite all his success, he never forgets where he comes from, and it’s wonderful to see his partnership with Müller Rice giving these children an unforgettable experience”
