St Helens Walking Football Club was treated to a professional matchday experience, complete with a roaring crowd and appearances from football legends, thanks to a campaign by Carlsberg.
The surprise event saw David James and Gemma Bonner join the team on the pitch, turning an everyday game into an unforgettable occasion.
Peter Fitzpatrick, chairman of St Helens Walking Football Club, said: “What an absolutely incredible day for the team.
“Carlsberg gave us an experience none of us will forget anytime soon.
“To walk out to a roaring crowd, and be surprised by legends like David James and Gemma Bonner, was a truly special moment.
“It’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions.”
St Helens walking football team
The event was part of Carlsberg’s new campaign encouraging people to rekindle their childhood dreams.
Research commissioned by Carlsberg found that many people abandon lifelong ambitions by the age of 29 due to financial pressures, family commitments, and social expectations.
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The study revealed that 11 million people in the UK feel they never came close to achieving their childhood dreams.
Despite this, 45 per cent of those surveyed still hope to fulfil a lifelong ambition.
Jessica Stacey, head of access for Carlsberg UK, said: “This research shows that many of us impose a ‘dream deadline’ on ourselves at just 29 years old.
“At Carlsberg, we believe in celebrating the best, and that includes the passions that people hold throughout their lives.
“We wanted to show that age should never be a barrier to experiencing your dreams.”
David James said it was a “special” day for the players.
He said: “Not every player gets the chance to experience that, though, despite it being a dream for many.”
Source: https://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/25350490.st-helens-football-team-surprised-matchday-experience
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