06 May REGULAR PARTICIPANT PAUL SHARES HIS SPORTING MEMORIES STORY

Since the turn of the year, the Huddersfield Town Foundation has proudly delivered the reminiscence programme known as Sporting Memories virtually.

Taking place twice-weekly, the sessions give participants the chance to meet like-minded people, share stories and enjoy some social interaction that they may not otherwise be afforded.

One regular attendee is Paul, a lifelong Town fan who joined the programme to compensate for the loss of interaction with other supporters on a match day.

Paul and his fellow attendees will often be joined by Town legend and Ambassador Andy Booth, giving an extra level of insight into his career and the club as a whole.

On the positive impact of the programme, Paul commented:

“These sporting memories sessions have become a regular treat and valuable distraction from all that’s been happening in the world.

“Discussion often extends to other sports and opinions offered on a variety of world issues, putting the world to rights can be very cathartic.

“Modern technology has many pitfalls, but it can provide a platform for maintaining social contacts and establishing new networks.

“The sessions work very well for me and my gratitude goes to those at the Sporting Memories Foundation and the club’s representatives who arrange them each week.”

Kayleigh Catford, Yorkshire Project Coordinator at the Sporting Memories Foundation added:

“It’s brilliant to see that not being able to meet face to face over the last year hasn’t stopped the Huddersfield Town Foundation supporting participants.

“The club has gone from strength to strength, the volunteers have really embraced the Sporting Memories concept and benefits such as our KITBags. I echo Paul’s thanks to Evan and the team at the Foundation.”

The Town Foundation’s virtual Sporting Memories sessions take place 10.30am-11.30am every Monday and 1pm-2pm every Friday on Microsoft Teams.

As Paul mentioned above, you do not need to be a Huddersfield Town supporter to attend – anybody over the age of 50+ and looking for a new way to socialise is more than welcome.

If you would like to take part or require further information, please contact Health Coordinator Evan Hall on evan.hall@htafcfoundation.com or 07741 671 599 in the first instance.