South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) celebrated a new team at its second annual football tournament as Gatwick’s Swarz FC were crowned champions for the very first time. 
More than 350 colleagues, friends and family came together at Lingfield College on Sunday, 17 May for a fantastic day of football, family fun, friendly competition and fundraising to support SECAmb Charity.
Thanks to the generosity of those attending, more than £700 was raised during the tournament. Funds raised will support initiatives delivered through the charity that make a meaningful and lasting difference across the ambulance service and the communities SECAmb serves.
On the pitch, a total of 14 teams battled it out for the trophy, with a Gatwick home derby delivering a thrilling finish to the tournament. Swarz FC faced off against the Glorious Gatwickians in a closely fought final, securing a 1-0 victory to take the title home and prevent last year’s champions, Thanet, from retaining the trophy.
It was also a strong showing for Sussex teams, with Polegate and West EOC sharing joint third place after impressive performances throughout the day.
The event featured several memorable moments on and off the pitch, including some friendly fixtures involving the Executive team and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) colleagues led by Interim Chief Executive, Jen Allan, who took on former champions Thanet.
Former professional footballer, Nicky Forster, attended as special guest and presented medals to the runners-up and winners before handing over the tournament trophy to the new champions. Capped at England Under-21 level during a playing career spanning more than 700 games, Nicky played for clubs including Brentford F.C., Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. and Reading F.C. before moving into football management and leadership and wellbeing coaching.
A huge thank you also goes to the incredible community first responders for keeping everyone refreshed, St John’s Ambulance, the volunteers who helped the event run so smoothly, all the supporters who came out to cheer on their teams and suppliers who took part in the day; Indulgent Ice Creams, Andrea Face on Facepainting, Bougee Bar and Bouncy Boss for helping provide refreshments and entertainment, Speedy Hire for its support and City Screen Print Ltd for donating charity stickers.
Everyone who took part, whether on the pitch or supporting from the sidelines, played a part in making the day a fantastic celebration.