Playing Football at Leicester City Football Club to Raise Money for the Boparan Charitable Trust
As the superstars from Liverpool and Real Madrid were making their final preparations for the 2021/22 Champions League final, a team of 5-a-side footballers from SF Engineering was getting ready for a football tournament of their own this week – The Boparan Charitable Trust’s Super League 5-A-Side Football Tournament.
The tournament was back after a two-year break because of the Covid-19 pandemic, with 20 teams battling it out for the coveted trophy. It took place at the King Power Stadium, home to Leicester City Football Club.
The Boparan Charitable Trust helps children with life-limiting illnesses and disabilities, as well as children living in extreme poverty. It works with children and families across the UK, providing essential funding for life-changing equipment such as wheelchairs and sensory toys, as well as specialist therapies.
Richard Smith, General Manager at SF Engineering, welcomed the return of the event after the break during the pandemic. “We took part in this event in 2018 at West Brom and again in 2019 at Wolverhampton Wanderers, so it’s great that it is now back.
“It’s special getting to play on the same pitches as Premier League players, and it’s always a good atmosphere, with plenty of banter between the teams. This year was no exception.
“The most important thing, though, is being able to provide support to the Boparan Charitable Trust. The work they do across the UK is humbling, so we were all proud to provide this financial support and help promote the work the Trust does.”
The SF Engineering team included Richard Smith, Leon Collins, Tom Swannell, Greg Harper, Kelvin Sands, Omar Stamatopoulo, Jon McFadden, and Dave Cole. Super-sub Jack, Leon’s 10-year-old son, was also named in the matchday squad.
What about the performance on the pitch?
“We got through to the knockout stages, but we were put out by the eventual runners-up,” Richard said. “Congratulations to the winners and everyone who took part, thanks to Leicester City Football Club for hosting us on the day, and thanks again to the Boparan Charitable Trust for organising the event and for the work you do.”
