A Day to Remember: Football, Friends, and Fundraising

What a day it was Sunday!

I'm still buzzing from the incredible energy and atmosphere.
I feel absolutely privileged to have been a part of this remarkable event, which truly showcased the power of community, sport, and giving back.

This past weekend was the third annual Chris Potter & Joey Beauchamp Charity Football Match in memory of two very well known local footballers alongside the opportunity to support three selected local charities

It was far more than just a football match; it was a reunion, a tribute, and a powerful statement of support for vital causes.


Old Friends and New Memories

One of the absolute highlights for me was the chance to catch up with so many old mates from years gone by.
Seeing familiar faces, reliving old stories, and making new memories on the sidelines was just brilliant and of course the countless laughs over the decades
It felt like no time had passed at all, and it was a wonderful reminder of the strong friendships that endure. Being surrounded by such great people, all united by a common purpose, made the day even more special.

It truly highlighted the best of our local  community, coming together for a great match that served a truly worthy cause.

A Special Tribute
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Amidst all the excitement and camaraderie, there was also a deeply poignant element to the day. It was incredibly moving to catch up with Chris Potter's family.

Chris was an old mate from college days, we worked together, we were ushers at each other's wedding and were close over the last 30 years but he sadly last his battle with cancer in 2020.

His presence was certainly missed by everyone who knew him.

Days like these are a powerful testament to the impact he had on so many lives. He'll always be fondly remembered and often thought of, and knowing that we were playing in a spirit that honoured his memory made every kick of the ball, every cheer from the crowd, and every moment of laughter even more meaningful. 

The collective spirit truly showed that while he's gone, his legacy and the memories we share will continue to unite us.

Football for a Cause: The Day's Heartbeat

The action on the pitch was certainly entertaining! The day kicked off with a brilliant Walking Football Tournament, which set a fantastic tone and showcased some impressive skill and passion from all involved. That led perfectly into the main event: an entertaining 3-3 draw between Abingdon Town and Oxfordshire Select at the impressive Oxford City Football Club. The crowd was fantastic, and their energy created a truly electric atmosphere.
But let's be clear, while the football was great, the real winners of the day were our three incredible charities:

• SeeSaw,
• ​The Joey Beauchamp Foundation,
• The Abingdon Bridge,

​The generosity shown throughout the day was nothing short of superb. Every ticket purchased, every donation made, and every raffle ticket bought contributed directly to these vital local causes. Seeing the community open their hearts and wallets to support others was truly inspiring. The final total is still being meticulously tallied, but the overwhelming support highlights just how much these charities mean to our local area.

Looking Ahead

This event was a powerful reminder that sport can be a incredible force for good. It brings people together, fosters community spirit, and provides a platform to make a real difference.

I'm already looking forward to future events like this.
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What a day. What a cause. What a community! 🙌