On June 22nd 2024, R;pple and the West Ham United Foundation hosted our first-ever five-a-side football tournament in partnership with West Ham United FC and Shawbrook Bank.
The charity tournament brought together over 200 individuals, organisations, and sponsors passionate about making a difference in mental health.
Adding to the magic of playing at West Ham United’s iconic training ground, former Hammers Matt Jarvis, Stuart Slater, John Moncur, Rufus Brevett, Geoff Pike, Paul Brush and Brian Dear returned to their old stomping ground to take in the atmosphere and mingle with the players.
For Jarvis, who met Alice at the Smiley Charity Film Awards, where they presented a short film, “Josh’s Story”, and as an ambassador for the WHU Foundation, the event held great significance.
Jarvis said: “When I met Alice and first heard about Josh’s story, I was incredibly moved. Being able to tell the story and use her experience to help others is amazing.
“There’s nothing better than being able to help and promote R;pple and the WHU Foundation’s work. I was very engaged back when I played here. We’re very much a community club at West Ham so it’s paramount that the Foundation embodies that, which it does.”
Commenting on the atmosphere of the tournament, Jarvis added: “When you’re a retired player, it’s so nice to be remembered fondly. Chatting to everyone, listening to them talking about memories of West Ham games I played in; it’s just great to be here and be a part of it.”
The event was a sellout, bringing together over 200 players from 21 different teams from across the country, and raising over £23,000 for the charitable causes.
Jack Sullivan, who was captaining his own team, opened the day, welcoming the teams and emphasising the importance of bringing the two charities together.
Relationship Director at the tournament’s headline sponsor Shawbrook Bank, and devoted West Ham supporter, Mark Hedley was delighted by the chance to bring the organisations together.
He said: “What a day! As a West Ham fan it was an absolute privilege to have taken part in the organisation and have West Ham legends here with us. I know everyone at Shawbrook shares my enthusiasm for helping to raise awareness for mental health, I'm delighted with what we achieved. I hope we did Josh proud.”
R;pple Suicide Prevention and the West Ham United Foundation extend their heartfelt thanks to tournament sponsors Anderson Wilde & Harris, Brickflow, FinWELL Training, LDS Sales Guarantee, Kuits Law Firm, and Westminster Consultant. Their generous support made this event possible and helped raise significant funds for crucial mental health initiatives.
Red the full article on www.whufc.com
