Living Life to the full through football
Stephen Preedy has practically become part of the fixtures and fittings in and around Sutton United’s football ground. He’s been a Sutton FC fan since his friend asked him to go to a match in 2012 and that began a chapter in his life that has brought untold benefits in so many ways.
Stephen then met Bobby Childs, Sutton United FC’s First Team Sports Therapist, who introduced him to a number of different projects that the club was running and Stephen got stuck in. Stephen hosted over 100 school games at the ground every season for both boys & girls over the next five years and also trained for his referee qualification.
He also began to assist the ground staff watering and tending to the pitch when required, carrying out this role for 4 years. Helping Bobby in and around the ground with tasks that needed support, formed an even stronger relationship between Stephen and Sutton United FC.
As a keen footballer himself, with a mental health disability, Stephen then got involved in the pan disability team. Steve King, who runs the disability section, employed Stephen initially as a player and then as a coach. Stephen also supported the kit manager for the first team when needed.
As the pan disability team travelled to play in tournaments, including Belfast, Stephen found that being involved made a huge difference to his mental health, getting him out of the house and meeting and spending time with others.
Stephen said: “The club is like a family and I’m so proud to go to work each week and deliver the projects that I am involved in. Being part of Sutton United really helps me to get out of bed and it is amazing to be part of it.
“It has made a massive difference to my life and I owe Bobby a big thank you for encouraging me to get involved. Going forward I just want to do more with the club to help others.”
In addition to his many other roles at the club, Stephen is now also involved in running the Walking Football group which aims to keep those over 50 who either through a lack of mobility, or other reasons, can’t play the traditional game. Tackling fitness and social isolation Stephen has become a key figure with the team.
Bobby Childs, First Team Sports Therapist, Sutton United FC said:
“Stephen has developed his ability to manage football sessions whether it be Walking Football or school game refereeing and has certainly grown as a person during his time with us.
“He is always willing to pitch in and I hope he remains involved at the club for as long as he feels the benefit of doing so.”
