The inaugural Bernie Smith Cup took place at the Robert Martin Sports Ground, bringing together eight teams – five teams from four local Exemplar Health Care homes and three teams from the local community. The event, organised to raise funds for The Matt Hampson Foundation, saw an enthusiastic turnout and spirited competition.
Eight teams participated in the tournament, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship:
· The Willowbeck Wanderers (from Sheffield’s Willowbeck care home)
· MM Madness (from Sutton-in-Ashfield’s Meadowcroft care home)
· Maddie’s Misfits
· Ward’s Warriors (from Codnor’s Yarningdale care home, managed by resident Ken Ward)
· Eastlands (from Sutton-in-Ashfield’s Eastlands care home)
· Codnor Inn
· Moorgreen Colt’s Old Stars
· Riley’s Rangers (from Yarningdale care home, managed by resident Neil Riley)
Over 100 people attended, including participants and spectators.
The tournament concluded with Moorgreen Colt’s Old Stars triumphantly taking home the Bernie Smith Cup. They made it to the final with Meadowcroft care home’s MM Madness.
Willowbeck care home’s Willowbeck Wanderers also made it to the semi-finals.
The trophy itself has been named in loving memory of Yarningdale resident and major football fan, Bernie Smith, who sadly recently passed away.
The event raised £1100 for The Matt Hampson Foundation, a charity that supports young people seriously injured through sport.
The charity activities, including a raffle, were a major hit. Popular prizes such as afternoon tea for two at the Wizard’s Den and a KLM Hair voucher drew significant interest. Players, team managers, and residents shared their excitement, reflecting on the memorable experience of participating in the tournament.
Alison Walvin, Home Manager at Yarningdale care home, commented:
“The Bernie Smith Cup exceeded all our expectations. It was wonderful to see everyone come together for a day of football, fun, and fundraising. We really appreciated the support from the community and the dedication of the participants.
“This event not only showcased the talent and enthusiasm of our residents and colleagues but also highlighted the incredible work of The Matt Hampson Foundation. We’re thrilled to have raised significant funds for such a worthy cause and can’t wait to do it all again next year.”
Sarah Martin, Activities Coordinator and organiser of the day, added:
“I am overwhelmed by the amount of support we received from staff at Yarningdale, other Exemplar Health Care homes and the local community. It was great to see everyone come together for an amazing charity and a very special man, Bernie. We can’t wait to bring you the Bernie Smith Cup 2025.”
The local community responded positively, with pub teams and other community groups actively participating.
Plans are already in motion to make the Bernie Smith Cup an annual event, building on this year’s success and further strengthening community bonds.
