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Off the back of Hull FC’s Alzheimer’s Society campaign and kit launch, we at Summit Vans wanted to help raise further awareness by connecting with our local community.
So, we reached out to St.Mary’s Care Group (dementia care specialists) and drummed up the idea to create a competition between two of the region’s care homes to discover which housed the biggest Hull FC fan.
Chanterlands & Riverside: Exceptional Care Homes
First and foremost, having visited both Chanterlands and Riverside care homes, we were taken aback by the facilities, thoughtfulness, and overall atmosphere each home presented.
It’s evident that the pride of the staff and their unwavering dedication are at the core of all that’s good; this feel-good factor also radiates from their residents.
Strong Competition
The homes came alive with friendly banter and rivalry, each championing resident and staff stories surrounding their connections with Hull FC, all in hope of winning the competition and bringing home the accolade as well as the prizes!
An Unforgettable Surprise
Having heard some incredibly inspiring and heartfelt stories, the Summit Vans team were split, when it came to choosing a clear winner. As a result, we decided to surprise two worthy winners with an equal share of the spoils.
Ralph & Ken: True Hull FC Fans
Ralph and Ken were chosen for very different reasons. What was clear was that they were both huge Hull FC fans and both worthy winners.
We surprised the pair of them with the new Hull FC Alzheimer’s Society shirt signed by the players, some classic merch’, as well as tickets to the Charity Match Day against Saints on August 3rd.
Their reactions were priceless, and their gratitude was heartfelt, making the moment truly unforgettable for everyone involved. And despite the result, we’re delighted to see they had a brilliant day out!
Ralph’s Story: A Father’s Love
Ralph’s journey with Hull FC is deeply intertwined with the memory of his son, Craig, who lived with Muscular Dystrophy. Despite the challenges, Ralph ensured Craig’s life was filled with joy, much of which came from their shared passion for Hull FC. Ralph reminisces, “Back then, the team played at the old Boulevard Stadium; it was our second home. Craig would have moved into the stadium if he could have.”
Craig’s passing at 19 was a heartbreaking loss, but Ralph honours his memory by continuing to support Hull FC. “Supporting FC is a connection with my son Craig that I never wanted to lose, and so I carried on supporting and have never stopped” Ralph explains. His dedication to Hull FC is a testament to his enduring love for his son.
Ken’s Story: Reliving Through Rugby
Ken, an 85-year-old resident at St Mary’s Riverside Care Home, has a profound love for Hull FC. Despite living with dementia, his passion for the team remains a constant. Ken recalls attending games with his father, a skipper on a fishing boat, and cherishes memories of a victorious game at Wembley. “Although Ken can’t remember all the details, the atmosphere and Hull’s win at Wembley are vivid in his mind,” shared Sam, the Deputy Manager at St Mary’s Riverside.
Sam often watches games with Ken, bringing him joy and a sense of community. Ken’s love for Hull FC provides a vital connection to his past and a source of happiness in the present.
Summit Vans, St.Mary’s & Hull FC: A Shared Journey
Before this initiative, there was no obvious, direct correlation between the three entities involved. However, since the competition, there is a new found connection between the organisations and its people.
Ultimately, there was a common drive and goal- to raise awareness for the UK’s leading dementia research charity: Alzheimer’s Society.
The Importance of Sports & Community Connections
If for whatever reason you’re not a fan of sports, you can’t deny its relentless, unwavering ability to weave its way throughout our communities and bring them closer together.
Our St.Mary’s experiences only further highlighted the powerful impact of sports, communities, and people. Such gatherings foster a sense of unity and shared purpose, emphasising the significant role collective spirit plays in enhancing lives.
A Legacy of Love & Support
Ralph’s and Ken’s stories, along with the dedication of staff like Sam, Jackie, Laura, Lynee, Dave, Michelle (and more) embody the true spirit of Hull FC fans. Their unwavering support for the team (and each other) not only keeps memories alive but also brings joy and a sense of community to those around them.