The event saw young players take to the pitch in front of parents, grandparents and extended family, with the stands filled with encouragement throughout the afternoon. Cheers rang out for goals, tackles and passes alike as the children, wearing matching kits and club badges, played with visible pride and enthusiasm.
Colin McGowan, chief executive of Hamilton Community Stadium, said the atmosphere reflected the power of local communities working together.
“There is something special that happens when a community comes together,” he said, describing the afternoon as “truly amazing” as families supported the young players from the sidelines.
Following the matches, players and families gathered together to enjoy a post-game meal, with McDonald’s providing food including chicken nuggets, cheeseburgers and chips, alongside fruit drinks.
The afternoon was rounded off with Equi’s vanilla ice cream, giving the children a chance to relax and socialise after their time on the pitch.
The event also carried a wider message beyond football. On departure, every child received a football from the children’s charity Blameless. Each ball included a QR code giving families access to a free 164-page book titled There’s Always Hope, which shares personal recovery stories from people affected by addiction.
McGowan said the inclusion of the book reflected an awareness of the challenges faced in many communities.“Harmful addiction is present in every local community,” he said, adding that the organisers hoped the gesture might reach someone in need of support.
“Perhaps someone, somewhere, reading this book may start their recovery journey.”
The afternoon was delivered through the combined efforts of youth coaches, parents, volunteers, Hamilton Community Stadium, ML3 Fitness and Wellness and the children’s charity Blameless, with McGowan praising the collective commitment behind the scenes.
He said the success of the day demonstrated what can be achieved when organisations and families work together for a shared purpose.
“I honestly believe that when communities come together and work together, there will always be hope,” he said, while thanking everyone involved in making the event possible.
