More than 300 spectators took to the stands at St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday evening (June 10) as Hamble Club F.C.’s adults’ inclusive team took to the pitch in a spirited fundraising tournament against staff from Silverlake Automotive Recycling.
The annual event, hosted by Hamble Club F.C., gives players from its inclusive section the chance to experience playing on a premiership-quality pitch. This year’s opponent, Silverlake, a leading automotive recycler based in Shedfield, was invited to take part in recognition of their continued sponsorship and support of the club’s inclusive programme.
The Hamble squad featured a diverse group of players, many of whom face significant physical and neurodiverse challenges that prevent them from participating in mainstream football. The team included individuals living with cerebral palsy, visual impairment, autism, ADHD, COPD, limb amputations, a single lung, and even a heart transplant. On the pitch, these players showed nothing but determination, grit, and joy for the game.
Despite their best efforts, and a series of dedicated training sessions, the Silverlake squad was still put through its paces by the Hamble players. The round-robin match format of 20-minute games meant that every player had the chance to participate. Hamble’s First Team physio was on hand throughout the night to offer support — strapping up the occasional ankle and knee, ensuring everyone could enjoy the experience safely.
One Hamble player described the night simply as “the best night of my life.”
Allen Prebble, Managing Director of Silverlake, who took to the pitch alongside his team, said:
“This was a fantastic night all round. Hamble Club F.C. does an incredible job making football accessible to everyone, and we’re proud to support that. The determination and joy of the Hamble players was nothing short of inspiring. Our company squad of 20 players, brought together for the night, have all agreed to keep training. We’ve enjoyed the camaraderie that comes from being part of a football team and we’re all benefiting from the exercise. We’ll be honing our skills and stamina for next time!”
Hamble Club F.C. is home to the largest inclusive football section on the South Coast. The club has recently shifted away from using the term “pan-disability football” in favour of “inclusive football,” which they believe more positively reflects the ability and passion of their players. The club is aiming to influence the Football Association to adopt the new terminology.
Steve Harris, Chair of Hamble Club F.C., added:
“This was a phenomenal night for our inclusive section, and we’re deeply grateful to Silverlake, not only for their financial support but also for turning up in force and making it a truly memorable experience. Grassroots football faces rising costs, and thanks to sponsors like Silverlake, we can continue offering affordable and inclusive opportunities for everyone who loves the game.”
Looking ahead, Silverlake plans to sponsor new kits for Hamble’s inclusive squad as they prepare for a landmark fixture in September, their annual match against FC Barcelona. Hamble remains the only club outside of Spain to take on the iconic team.
