Marine AFC are set to host two charity football matches involving Wirral Wise Guys this weekend, all in the name of men’s mental health.
Two teams comprising of 42 men from the men’s mental health charity will face off against Everton’s Rainbow Toffees and Magenta Living at The Marine Travel Arena on Sunday 23rd March.
In a jam-packed event, which will also include a raffle and auction fundraiser, both games will last 60 mins.
The first game against Everton’s LGBT supporters group, Rainbow Toffees, will kick off at 4pm.
The second game against the not-for-profit housing provider, Magenta Living, will quickly follow at 5pm.
More than 100 supporters are expected to attend in what is set to be a special day for Wirral Wise Guys, whose football therapy group launched in April 2024.
The charity’s founder, James Sheldon, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of the 42 men who are competing in our first ever Charity match against opposition, all in the name of men’s wellbeing.
“In the last 12 months, over 83 men have taken part.
“We’ve witnessed the formation of new friendships, significant improvements in mental health, and many participants reporting better physical health as well.
“We’re excited to see just how far we can take this project.
“Sport has an incredible power to enhance overall health, and we believe in its potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of our participants.”
But it’s not just the wise guys who are looking forward to kick-off.
“Myself and a few Magenta lads play football on a weekly basis and my good friend Eddie introduced me to Wirral Wise Guys and Wirral Football Therapy which has been a revelation for me”, said Richie Whelan from Magenta Living.
Mr Whelan continued: “Now I’ve helped organise a game of football for Magenta Living staff from all areas of the business to play against Wirral Wise Guys, looking back to where I was to now and how I am advocating and pushing the wellbeing of mental health in and out of the work place I am proud of myself and really looking forward to working with Wirral wise guys and putting on more events.”
Tickets for the games are still available at £10 for adults and £5 for children.
Featured image courtesy of Wirral Wise Guys
