CALM Charity Match
On Sunday 1st September, Tankerton FC hosted an event at Seaview in support of the charity, CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably). CALM is leading a movement against suicide, the single biggest cause of death among men under the age of 45 in the UK. The twin aims of the day were to raise money for the charity and to heighten awareness of the increasing tragedy of suicide among young men.
The event was organised jointly by the TFC fundraising committee, led by Jason Tongue, and Jackie Kavanagh, the mother of Liam who took his own life aged just 31, after battling depression. Jackie had teamed up with Jenny Woledge and Debbie Cooley who had both lost their own sons, Will and Ryan. In all, the lives of six young men who had been the victims of depression were remembered on the day.
The central event of the day was a football match between a team comprising members of TFC men’s and ladies’ teams and “The Lost Boys”, a mixed-sex team of Liam’s family and friends. After marking a minute’s silence, the teams battled away for 90 minutes with The Lost Boys emerging as 3-1 victors.
At half-time there was an extended break for an auction of sporting memorabilia, conducted by TFC Treasurer, Dave McGovarin.
Following the match there was a speech by TFC Chairman, Andy Davidson and presentation of medals to both teams and of a trophy to The Lost Boys’ captain.
Supporters of CALM had organised various stalls and attractions to entertain visitors and to raise money for their cause. Thanks go to all those who helped out in various ways on the day. In all, the event raised a magnificent £3,264 for this very worthwhile charity.