Testimonials
Included below are just a small selection of testimonials we’ve received from our participants in recent years, if you'd like to tell us about an experience you've had in a Football Aid match please Contact Us or why not post on our Facebook page.
“This is a very big thank you to all of the Football Aid staff for giving me the opportunity of having an unforgettable experience. I am a lifelong Arsenal fan and therefore playing the Emirates was a dream come true! We were made to feel like real superstars on the day by your professional attention to detail and all the care taken to ensure our day was better than we could ever have imagined. Everyone should should do it at least once in a lifetime as it is a day to talk about and relive forever.
This also goes for my son Mark who was lucky enough to be chosen as a mascot. You have no idea how happy this made my little boy feel, he will cherish the memory till he can go join you and play in one himself. Many thanks to all at Football Aid”
Noel Brady
Arsenal 2010
"Football
aid is a fantastic charity. I am proud to be part of Football Aid's
history and can happily boast to my team mates that I have played at and
scored goals at some of the biggest stages in English football.
I
was lucky enough to take part in 3 Football Aid events in 2011 and each
one holds really unique memories. From the floodlit 4-3 defeat at
Leicester to my four goal haul at the first ever Blackpool match, my
brace at Villa and the opportunity to share my experiences with a great
bunch of team mates and opposition. The Football Aid team deserve
special recognition for their hard work on matchdays to bring these
events together. But most important is the charity. I have taken part on
events that have raised a total of over £30,000 for Football Aid's
partner charities and community football projects. The one thing that
will stay with me (apart from my cheesy goal celebrations and awards for
Man of the Match and Moment of the Match) is the way these events bring
together the whole community. It's great to see young children right
through to proud Grandparents and family at each match.
Thank you Football Aid, I can't wait to play again next year and beyond."
Andy Harland
Aston Villa, Blackpool & Leicester City 2011
"I have to say the whole experience was absolutely fantastic. I'm a lifelong Birmingham fan but having never previously been anywhere in the ground other than in the stand, to suddenly find myself PLAYING on the hallowed turf was simply immense. Aside from the game itself, two things stand out:1) How brilliantly organised everything was
2) How you strived to make everything as authentic to a real match day as possible - right down to us emerging from the tunnel to the tune of Feel It by The Tamperer! Classic!
The only disappointing thing was I didn't score (come on ref, I was never offside!). Thanks again, carry on what you're doing and you will bring pleasure to many more unfit, balding 40-year olds like me! Cheers"
Iain Buckle
Birmingham City 2010
“Thanks to all at Football Aid and Blackburn Rovers FC for last night’s experience, I've always dreamed of pulling on a Blackburn shirt and taking to the field at Ewood Park. Last night my dream came true.
In the past I've looked at the cost of Football Aid and taken a step back thinking I simply couldn't justify the cost, but after playing for the first time I now know that it was worth every single penny.
My step son Rhys was delighted to be one of the mascots last night and he simply had one the best evenings of his life. The look of delight on his face when he hit the back of the net in the warm up will long stay with me and his Mum. His shirt is a virtual write off now with all the signatures he got from the fantastic club legends. Thanks again to all.”
M. J. Sinnett
Blackburn Rovers 2008
"Blackpool was a great day and many thanks to the 4 legends who clearly enjoyed the day just as much as the players. Ciaran Donnelly still a class player, and what can I say about Derek Spence.......? Well a great all round bloke, very funny, had a serious team talk with us and a fantastic ambassador for the community trust and Blackpool.
Many thanks"
Michael Ingham
Blackpool 2011
"I had a blast - the most amazing thing I have ever done in my life - well worth every cent - mind you I think I'd had my money's worth by the 15min mark!
Everything was just perfect right down to the strip hanging up in the changing rooms. I've attached a bonus for me - it was the article in the Bolton News Paper. The headline made the front page & the article was about half a page inside!
http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/4405253.Howard_lands_from_Oz_to_realise_Whites_dream/
Once again thank you for all your efforts in helping me realise LIVING THE DREAM."
Howard Fox
Bolton Wanderers 2009
“Fabulous day yet again, good on Celtic for facilitating the game under difficult circumstances and Neil Lennon (our captain) was brilliant! Managed to set up the first and score the winner (albeit played like a coo) but truly the stuff dreams are made of!
Also really good to see some kindred spirits from previous games, there seems to be a growing bunch of "regulars" now playing, you should maybe think of having a kind of "footballaid reunited" facility?
Anyway thanks again for a great day, fabulous memories and please get my name onto the team sheet for next year. I'm sure I'll be able to walk again by then!”
Gerry Diamond
Celtic 2008
"I had the fortune to play in the Charlton game and also the QPR game and both games once again did Football Aid proud, both sets of legends were all great characters and made both days even more special. I would also like to pay particular credit to the Football Aid representatives for the days who were Stewart at Charlton and Donald at Charlton. The games ran smoothly without hitch (well from where I was standing!) and the enthusiasm of the organizers was infectious and once again added to the spirit of the day!
I keep saying it but keep up the good work, it is all for a great cause and truly is a fantastic experience. Its great to meet a cross section of other players of differing abilities and to share their experiences and their thoughts on the event!
I cant speak highly enough of Football Aid, I have now done five different clubs and I am going to be doing 3 or 4 next year guaranteed ... (just don’t tell my missus!)"
Jason Guy
Charlton Athletic 2008
"Can I just say a huge thank you for yesterday, I fulfilled a lifetime ambition by playing at Stamford Bridge! (Despite the fact that "Playing" may not be the correct choice of words!)
A thoroughly enjoyable day thanks to all those involved for arranging it, and I would be extremely interested in the events for next year.
Once again many thanks."
Matt Day
Chelsea 2007
"An excellent performance from the Away team, marshalled by the ever youthful D. Busst. The Home team tried hard but the cream always rises!
4-2 Benno!!
Seriously great organisation, commitment and teamwork - well done everyone on a great day!"
David Busst
Club Legend and Football in the Community Director
Coventry City 2008
"I really enjoyed being involved in the match at Selhurst park, so much so I could not think about anything else for two whole days. Stepping out on the pitch was amazing, as the game got going the feeling felt more natural.
I feel good knowing that I have played a part in raising money for a good cause.
It was a shock for me to be awarded Man of Match for my team as I was down to play just the first half at right back, but events had changed during our half time team talk and I was asked If I would like to stay on and play left back, I was happy to be playing at selhurst park regardless of my position played, so how could I turn down a opportunity like that from the Boss Jim Cannon, so I said yes I'll play anywhere for the team!
I will always remember the day as my "dream come true" debut for Palace.
Thank you to all involved at Football Aid and Crystal Palace FC, for the experience."
Dwayne Simpson
Crystal Palace 2007
"As always the experience was fantastic. The facilities at the stadium are second to none and everyone taking part, both on and off the field, made it yet another great day to remember.
The day was made even more special by my son, Jacob, being mascot on the day. He loved everything about it immensely and has been talking about it non-stop since. He wants to know when he can go back and play on the pitch. Looks like I'll be buying the DVD so that he can watch it all over again...
I'll come back every year that my legs will allow me to and probably a few years after they've stopped working as well.
Kind regards, best wishes and my undying thanks to everyone involved with Football Aid for making my lifelong dreams come true each year."
Dene Gagliardi
Derby County 2009
"Just wanted to pass on my appreciation for the efforts of all of the Football Aid staff and the legends who took part in yesterdays Everton Game.
To play on the pitch at Goodison Park was a boyhood dream come true even though I'm nearing 30, which was aided by such helpful staff, players and organisation. To be able to 'Live the dream' and also help a great cause in the process is just a win win situation. Yesterday's experience was enhanced even further by winning the bid to be Captain for the day and capping it off with the first goal of the day at the Gladwys end was just perfect. All topped off with a 3-1 win!
I will definitely be looking to do this again, despite aching all over today and I will also be passing this on to my friends who are fans of other teams who take part in this. The only negative point is that it's now all over! However, I look forward to receiving my photo's and DVD to be able to re-live the day. I'm also off to Ikea today to buy a frame for my match shirt, signed by Stuart Barlow and Matt Jackson.
Thank you again and I'm sure I will be speaking to you again soon."
Darren Wollaston
Everton 2010
“Please pass on my thanks to all at Football Aid who made the day possible. To play at Tynecastle was quite simply a dream come true and it was a day I will never forget. I would highly recommend the experience to any football supporter who grew up dreaming of playing for their team.
To have the chance to meet and play alongside the likes of Jimmy Sandison, Gary Mackay and Alan McLaren, all players I idolised in my youth, was fantastic. To then have Steve Banks take control of our team at half time was just sensational.
Now that I've had a taste of what its all about, I’m already poised to sign up for next year!”
Bruce Millar
Heart of Midlothian 2008
“Hi, would just like to say once again thank you for the excellent night out I had at Tranmere last week as the centre forward and captain for the football aid team. It was my first experience of such an event and I hope it wont be my last. I have played in several cup finals during my playing days never did I get such a thrill as I did with the Hollyoaks event at Tranmere.
The lads of Hollyoaks were great for the role they played in ensuring it was a great night. I keep reliving my chance to win the match in the last minute in my head and it still hurts.
Hate to think what John Terry must have went through!!!!!!”
Gary Stobbs
Hollyoaks Celeb Match 2008
"Only just got my energy back, to say thanks for a great day (not as good as last year result wise). A great day, thanks to all, Scott Booth, Trevor Steven and Pat Nevin for his game summary, hilarious!
Both Mascots Ryan & Freddy scored during the warm up, unlike the rest of us during the game...
Weather: What a scorcher
Result: What a shocker
Really had a great time, the whole family did, thank you."
Adrian Alcock
International Challenge 2008
“Football Aid really is amazing. I have had Diabetes since 1984 so I get a double benefit from Football Aid: I get to play at my favourite football grounds and considerable funds are raised for a Diabetes related charity, among others.
This year's game at the Walkers was so good that despite regular flashbacks I am still struggling to believe it really happened! Every single second was exciting and the game was a sheer joy to play in! It was an honour to play in the same team as Muzzy Izzet and equally special to play against Mike Whitlow, 2 players I have seen many times over the years at Filbo! Playing alongside people you used to watch home and away is a sensation that is hard to describe but it is one of the things that makes Football Aid such an exciting experience.
Thank you Football Aid (for permanent flashbacks.......)”
Adrian Landers
Leicester City 2010
“I am struggling to put into words the absolutely fantastic experience that I had yesterday. The day surpassed all my expectations. My only regret is that Football Aid did not do this 20 years ago when I was in my prime but better late than never!!
The day was organised so superbly that for a few precious hours you could actually dream that you were experiencing something similar to the experience of real Liverpool legend. Speaking of legends, Brian Hall, Alan Kennedy and Jan Molby were absolutely superb. It was a lovely touch to have physiotherapists on hand to give massages and to help with the pre match warm up etc. To cap it all off my son was mascot for the day and the smile on his face was the icing on the cake.
Superb day, fantastic experience, Great Club. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to "Live my Dream".”
Nigel Ford
Liverpool 2008
"Many thanks for a fantastic event and a memorable experience. Everyone from Football Aid and Manchester City F.C. have been so gracious and hospitable. I flew all the way from the U.S.A. to participate in the match and it was worth every penny and all the effort to do so.I hope to participate again next year.
Thank you and regards"
Simon Crossley
Manchester City 2009
“I am back home in USA returning from one of the best days of my life, as always The Football Aid experience is Magic!!! I would like to give thanks to you and all the people from Football Aid for the tremendous work they put in everyday, attending and organizing the events. On my Game at Man Utd the atmosphere was fantastic!!!, I had the opportunity of encountering people from previous games and it was like we were friends forever, let me tell you there is a bonding experience thru the game of football, the club of your choice and of course Football Aid itself.
You have no idea my satisfaction from this events, I could go over and over and feel the same excitement like it was my first, when the day is over one of the greatest things is to hear that Football Aid got the funds to help others, in the end the magic is for everyone!!!
I will continue to support Football Aid and encourage others to follow too. See you next year!!!!
All the Best to the Football aid Team !!!! Your work is noticed....Congratulations for the hard work over these years!!!!”
German Sanchez-Myles
Manchester United 2010
“As a Man Utd Season Ticket Holder, this experience showed me exactly why United are "The Best, On and Off the Pitch".
The professionalism of the day, from everyone involved at Manchester United, Carrington Training Ground and Football Aid made me understand what goes on behind the scenes at this world class facility to prepare both the present winning squad/team and the future generations. Just to sample a little part of their day was a dream come true.
The Insight from the motivational morning presentations through the training masterclass and the opportunity to listen to Denis Irwin about how Manchester United continue to achieve was both revealing and inspirational.
Having Played (and scored) at Old Trafford in 2002, now trained at Carrington in 2008 and supported the Red Devils since the early 70's my life is complete. Thank you for giving this fan the opportunity to fulfil his football dreams.”
Doug Chadd
Manchester United Master Class 2008
"I thoroughly enjoyed every minute and it was as good and even better than I thought it would be. The only regret I have is that I wasn’t a bit more selfish in front of goal!!
I would certainly recommend the whole experience and if I can persuade my fiancée (bearing in mind we’re getting married next year) I’ll be back again in 2009 – don’t suppose there’s a discount for over 35’s??!!
Once again, thanks for one of the most memorable days of my life."
Dave Stephenson
Middlesbrough 2008
“I have to say that this was one of the most fantastic experiences of my 38 years to date.
The opportunity to play (and score!) at St. James Park is something that I will dine out on for a long time and will live with me forever.
Thank you for a truly memorable experience.”
Jonathan Appleby
Newcastle United 2008
"I would like to thank you for making my dreams come true. The opportunity to raise money for a good cause makes it all worthwhile. As a Norwich City supporter it was an experience I did not think I would ever get, to play at Carrow Road, to meet like-minded people, to be managed by City greats and to play alongside Darren Huckerby and Gary Holt was amazing! I can not believe that I can now say I scored a goal in front of the Barclay End which was set up by Huckerby!! Such a magical day that I will bore my wife and friends with for years to come. Thank you Football Aid."
Ian Davenport
Norwich City 2010
“I have been a Forest supporter for over 30 years since my Dad took me to the Trent End to watch whilst I had to stand on a milk crate. I am a true red and followed them from the ups (European Cup winners, twice!) and the downs (relegation to League 1) and have many happy and fond memories. I have to say that yesterday I was a bit unsure about how real the experience would be....and boy was I impressed with what Football Aid and the club did.
From the 1st minute my family and I were looked after, seeing current team players, having photos with the European Cup and a tour of the ground and that was all before we even started. The kit being laid out, the journey down the tunnel, the warm-up and of course the match were all things that will stay with me for a very, very long time. The Football Aid staff, the club and the legends were fabulous. The whole experience was amazing and one I have not stopped talking about to anyone who will listen!
I will always remember my penalty save and my diving save from a close range Steve Hodge header. Words can't describe the experience, all I can say to football supporters, is go for it....you really will make many happy memories as well as supporting a great charity.”
Lee Randall
Nottingham Forest 2010
“An absolutely first class event. Football Aid looks to really take detailed care to make the event as authentic as possible - from the kit being laid out professionally in the changing rooms, to the excellent officials, legends, filming of the event etc.
I thought the guys who were from Football Aid at our event did a really good job of being on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Thank you very much.”
Paul Fitzgibbon
Portsmouth 2009
“It
really was a wonderful day at QPR. I saw my first match in the 1975/76
season (April Bank Holiday Monday - Rangers 2 Arsenal 1!), so finally
to tread the hallowed turf was a dream come true! My son and fiancée
were in attendance & we all agreed that the Football Aid staff were
first class. The Legends, Clive Wilson & Danny Maddix, when they
played, didn't hog the limelight, but encouraged and brought others
into the game at every opportunity.
Please pass on our thanks to QPR, Dave Robinson, Clive & Danny and all of you at Football Aid. It's great to be involved in helping to increase the coffers for very worthwhile charity causes too.”
Grant Foster
Queens Park Rangers 2008
“An absolutely tremendous day that more than lived up to the build up. I looked forward to this 'once in a lifetime' chance for so long and it delivered so much more. The entire experience was so professional and I really did feel like the captain of Rangers on the day.
I haven't stopped thinking about the match since it finished and I am already weighing up the possibility of it being a 'twice in a lifetime' experience.
All the best”
Stuart Blackwood
Rangers 2010
“Thanks for the great day Football Aid!!
The legends and staff were all awesome and a lot of money was raised for a great cause.
Thanks for the memories”
Ian McBride
Reading 2010
“I have to say that last Tuesday night is one that I will remember forever, the opportunity to walk out onto the Hampden Turf wearing a Scotland strip was simply FANTASTIC.
From start to finish the whole experience was great, from the minute I walked into the Stadium till I left everyone was so friendly and helpful. I would like to thank your staff for taking care of us, making sure we were in the right place at the right time and also the celebrities who were very approachable and friendly.
I think the whole concept is superb (for us mere mortals) and may you have many more successful years ahead.
Thanking you most sincerely”
Finlay Wylie
Scotland International 2010
"The limbs are struggling from the weekend - but it was more than worth it.
The whole experience was just unforgetable for both me and my son Josh who was one of the mascots.
Your guys who organised it did a fantastic job and to hear that we raised £7,000 from our game just put the icing on the cake - well done to you all.
The game couldn't have gone much better, we were losing 2-1, got a last minute penalty, scored and then won on penalties (cant wait for the dvd).
This is the first time I have done it, but we all said in the dressing room it would be great if we could all meet up next year to do it all again!!
Once again thanks for the memories."
Jonathan Bennett
Sheffield United 2008
“I have always had a dream of playing at Hillsborough and after my attempt to become a professional footballer failed dramatically at the first hurdle, I felt the dream was over. When I first heard about Football Aid I was determined to realise my lifelong ambition. Just to stand on the centre spot before the game last night was fantastic, but to run down the tunnel and play a game on the pitch was quite unbelievable.
It was a totally unforgettable experience and I nearly ended up getting divorced last night when I told my wife it was the best day of my life!
Thank you Football Aid”
Steve Manley
Sheffield Wednesday 2008
"Just a quick note to say thanks to all the Footballaid team for making my day (and that of my mate Matt) such a brilliant and memorable experience at Southampton on 14th May. I am now the envy of all the player in my own football club - even those who are supporters of arch rivals, Portsmouth (I am a Pompey supporter too, but I left my allegiances aside for the day ...)
The fact that we also raised over £12,000 for charity makes it doubly worthwhile. For a player of my dubious ability to be able to do something like this is a lifelong dream and one that I have now realised.
I am looking forward now to seeing the photos and match DVD. I will certainly be back next year."
Nick Poling
Southampton 2008
"I’m compelled to say what a fantastic event Southend was and what a great day I had.
I’ve done a few of these games now and in my opinion Southend was pretty much exactly how they should be run. It’s not the size of the ground or how big a name the team is that you are playing at that makes a good event; more how the day is run and how the Legends and the club treat you. I couldn’t fault this at Southend with Steve Tilson and Paul Brush being absolutely fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble for them and they acted like “one of the lads” telling stories and sharing in jokes.
I think the best compliment I can pay the Southend event in the current times is that I felt like it was more than value for the money."
Phil Thorpe
Southend United 2009
"This was a fantastic event which was all that I expected, it was truly about living the dream.
Absolutely excellent, wouldn't hesitate in doing it again. Can't actually believe we didnt equalise in the 35 minutes of the second half, but down to some superb goalkeeping!
Thanks to football aid for a brilliant evening."
Andrew Donald
Stoke City 2011
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Football Aid staff, my fellow players and everyone else who was involved on the day. The whole experience was outstanding; from relaxing in the players lounge, to walking into the dressing room and seeing my kit hanging there. Not only was the day very special to me personally it was great for my family who saw me run out in the strip and take part in a great match, my granddad was beaming the whole time! 3-3 was a fair result as well as no one deserved to be on the losing side.
Sadly my football talent is very limited but I was pleased overall, if I was feeling slightly indulgent I would claim an assist for the equaliser as I played Gary Bennett in to score.
Once again thanks to everyone who contributed."
John Mulliss
Sunderland 2007
"I saw my first Spurs home match (aged 11) in 1967... I believe it was against Fulham and Sir Bbby Robson was playing left half for Fulham!.....I remember spurs won 4-2 (I think!)
I continued to see most of Spurs' home matches (standing on the old shelf) until late 1970`s when my marriage and then 3 lovely daughters and work committments did not allow me to go to live games as often as I would have liked.
However since 1967 and throughout my childhood, early adult hood and up to the present day I had always dreamed of playing at the Lane. It has been a standing joke that if asked what i would do if I won the lottery...I have always said "arrange for me and a few mates to play at White Hart lane!"
I therefore cannot begin to express how special the day and match was for me...and to play with my best mate Andy Dust, after we saw the Fulham match in 1967 together...and we have been playing football together since he was 5 and I was 7 years old...made it even more special for me.
At 51 years of age I count myself blessed that I can still play football and so far the legs have not (completely) gone..
Friday's match was the nearest thing I will experience to time travel....for throughout the day and match I was again that 11 year old kid..."
Steve Cornish
Tottenham Hotspur 2007
"Well what can I say? I've been going to the Millennium Stadium watching Wales since it was built and always wondered just what it would be like to put on the red of our country and stand on the field with the national anthem playing. Well now I needn't wonder anymore!
My legs are killing but it was the most amazing sporting experience ever, seriously. I will not be able to wipe this grin off my face for years. Everything from the pre-match tour, arriving in the dressing rooms to see the kits with our names on them, the national anthem and the awesome match itself (Pat Nevin elbowed me in the head! It was an honour) was just out of this world. The 76,000 empty seats had a real treat that day I can assure you, but not as much as I and everyone else did.
Many thanks to Nationwide and Football Aid. I'll never ever forget this."
Andrew Davies
Wales International 2009
“I certainly did have a fantastic time being involved in the game at Watford on Friday, it really was a dream come true, my sons were itching to get on the pitch and play, so hopefully they may be able to do the next one at Watford.
Keep up the great work.”
Kevin Hills
Watford 2008
"Just wanted to say what a fantastic day Saturday’s event turned out to be not only was the football event well organized but I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Football Aid staff that were present at the Hawthorns as not only were you all helpful and helped make the days events perfect but you were also a great bunch of guys and very humorous.
The whole day was just perfect and my Wife, children and friends all said what a lovely day the had and how well organized it all was. We are all just so pleased we raised so much money for field of dreams which after all was our reason for doing this and all being well we all from Sainsburys will be doing next years event.
See you all next year"
Chris Bradley
West Bromwich Albion 2008
"Just wanted to say thanks to all at Football Aid for another brilliant day.
It was a really good game which my away team managed to win 2 - 0 and I was over the moon to notch a goal, my second at Upton Park in three Football Aid outings! If I keep on like this Curbs will be on the phone to me! I played for the first time at Upton Park with both my brother and Dad on the pitch so it was really special.
As always the Football Aid staff were exceptional - friendly, helpful and welcoming, they made sure our day lived up to expectations. The West Ham staff were once again brilliant as well.
The atmosphere of the spectators was fantastic too, they really got behind both teams and gave us all a big cheer when we finally made it into the bar for our celebratory pint!
So, thanks again for a great day."
Lee Healey
West Ham United 2008
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you in conjunction with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the fantastic occasion you provided at Molineux on Friday 31st April 2010. As it was my first participation in any such event I can only describe it as memorable to say the least, as an avid Wolves supporter having attended countless number of games at Molineux over the years to take to the pitch and play there was just fantastic and a night I'll never forget.
I can honestly think of nothing that could have made the occasion any more special and will deffinately be looking to secure a position for next season's event as soon as the opportunity arises. Once again a massive thank you to you all from a very proud Wolves fan...See you all next season!!"
Craig Wilkinson
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2010
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