Greener Bantams is Bradford’s pioneering tree planting initiative

Bradford City have planted 154 trees – one for every goal scored by the men’s and women’s teams last season – as part of the Greener Bantams initiative.

The trees, provided free of charge by the Woodland Trust, were planted on the club’s training ground at Woodhouse Grove School.

“It’s a simple way to inspire others with their connection to the environment,” Adam Keizer, the club’s sustainability officer, told BBC Sport.

“We want to plant a tree in order to preserve the goals scored this season and we started with last season’s statistics. It’s a bit of fun but more goals, more trees, so everyone wins.”

The Bantams, who are seeking promotion from League One, are the first EFL club to take part in the initiative which includes first-team players from both the men’s and women’s teams, academy players and pupils from Woodhouse Grove.

The Woodland Trust, which has planted 68.5 million trees since its founding in 1972, is at the heart of the project, providing free trees to schools, sports clubs and other community-led organisations.

John Martin, of the Woodland Trust, said: “Lots of studies suggest we’re healthier and happier when we’re around trees.”

“Trees help prevent flooding, provide shelter and shade, and there are plenty of training pitches where there is room for trees and all the benefits they bring.

“Breaking it down into something practical and fun feels tangible because anyone can plant a tree.”