In a spirited display of sportsmanship and community spirit, DadSpace and Black Eagle Athletic faced off in a charity football match on Friday the 15th of September, 2023. The event, held at Gallagher Stadium, home of Maidstone United, not only showcased the passion for the beautiful game but also emphasised the vital connection between physical exercise and mental well-being.
“Engaging in activities like football promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps alleviate stress and anxiety.”
With a final score of 5 - 3 in favour of Black Eagle Athletic, the match was a thrilling contest from start to finish, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats. The teams demonstrated outstanding teamwork, precision passes, and impeccable goalkeeping, providing the crowd with a display of top-class amateur football.
"We all felt like winners the moment we walked onto that pitch!” Lloyd - Mr Hat Trick
The event drew a diverse crowd, including avid football fans and families of both participating teams. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and unity, reinforcing the belief that sports have the power to bring communities together for common causes.
One of the most significant aspects of the match was the substantial sum of money raised for charity. Through ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships, the event managed to generate over £2,000. These funds will be split between DadSpace and Black Eagle Athletic, enabling both organisations to continue their vital work in promoting Mens Mental Health and a Childhood Obesity Campaign.
For those not familiar with DadSpace, we are a non-profit organisation, dedicated to providing Brotherly Support Between Fathers and family events. Funds raised at events allow us to expand our outreach program and support within the community.
Coach Foy said that the money raised by the lads playing for Black Eagle Athletic will be put towards a targeted campaign working with local schools to teach children in Kent about the importance of healthy eating and leading an active lifestyle. Signposting to local sports clubs and activities.
“Wow, our very first charity match since we started DadSpace nearly 2 years ago! I don’t think I’ve been so proud, seeing the DadSpace team glowing under the stadium lights in their brand-new kits, with all our friends and family there to support us was quite an overwhelming experience. One that I will never forget." Denver King - DadSpace Director
Speaking after the match, both teams expressed their gratitude to the community and event sponsors for their overwhelming support. The importance of events like these in not only about raising funds but also in spreading awareness about the connection between physical activity and mental health.
"Yes, it was a football match, but it was much more than that! It was family. It was togetherness. It was Brotherly Support Between Fathers” Denver King - DadSpace Director
Thank you to everyone who atteneded, donated and helped to make this amazing event happen. We also thank you our amazing event sponsors: HPS Heating Pluming Supplies Gillingham Martins Upholstery Supplies NexGen Cyber
The success of this charity football match serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together to support a common cause. See our calendar for latest events in your area.
We even made it into the KM!
We couldn't resist ending on some proud family photos that were submitted to us too.
