ISLANDERS enjoyed football, mince pies and conversation at a special Christmas community initiative recently held by the Jersey FA.
The free afternoon ‘kick-about’ was designed to support those who might be experiencing loneliness or social isolation during the festive period.
Jersey FA chairman Jimmy Kelly explained that it formed part of wider efforts to support “wellbeing, inclusion, and community connection across the Island”.
He said around 30 people attended the event, which saw small-sided football games take place at the sports hall at Les Quennevais Sports Centre.
Mr Kelly noted that this included opportunities to play walking football, and that Islanders were also able to simply turn up for a chat, a cup of tea or coffee and a mince pie.
“The objective was about bringing people together and having some fun – and it definitely achieved both of those objectives,” he said, adding that the Jersey FA would “definitely look to do similar events next year”.
Mr Kelly highlighted that football could be played “at all different levels” and serve as “a tool for people to see each other, understand each other and break down barriers”.
He described it as “the perfect vehicle to bring people together”.
