Grimsby Town Football Club give care-experienced young mascot a once in a lifetime opportunity at historic match

With a sold-out crowd and national coverage on ITV and Sky Sports, the match was a landmark moment for the club and the local community. Fans witnessed a spirited performance from Grimsby Town, who held their own against one of the most storied teams in English football before sealing the win on penalties.

Among the many memorable moments of the day was a heartwarming experience for one very special young fan. Seven-year-old Jack*, a football-mad local child in foster care, was chosen to walk out as a mascot alongside the players, thanks to a growing partnership between the club and North East Lincolnshire Council’s Children’s Services. 

A second mascot was also chosen by the NSPCC after the club offered free mascot packages to charitable organisations via the Grimsby Town Foundation.

Jack* was selected as part of the Council’s commitment to celebrating and supporting children in care. Jack’s* social worker shared how thrilled he was when he learned the news:

“He is a passionate and talented young footballer, currently playing for a local grassroots team. His dedication and enthusiasm are remarkable, and he’s a shining example of resilience. I couldn’t be more excited for him.”

Dressed proudly in a full Grimsby Town home kit, Jack* said before the match:

“I still can’t believe it, I’m so excited.”

Although he was cheering for the Mariners, he admitted his favourite player is Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, who started off on the bench but came on in the second half.

Grimsby Town has been a proud and vocal supporter of children in care, becoming the first club to sign up to the Foster Friendly business scheme last year. Over the past 18 months, the club has gifted hundreds of match tickets to children in care and care leavers, and hosted special events to make them feel part of the football community.

Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services and a board member of the Grimsby Town Football Club Foundation, attended the match and praised the club’s ongoing commitment:

“The club continues to show what true community partnership looks like. Moments like these can have a lasting impact on a child’s confidence and sense of belonging.

Their support makes a real difference in the lives of our young people.”

Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder for Children and Education added:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Grimsby Town Football Club for continuously showing what being a corporate and community parent is all about.

Since signing up to be our first Foster Friendly business they have gone above and beyond for the children in our care, and we can’t thank them enough.”

The football club’s Chief Executive Officer Polly Bancroft was delighted to support.

“We wanted to do something special for the Manchester United game and offered free mascot packages to charitable organisations via the Grimsby Town Foundation,” Polly said.

“One of these went to the council and another to the NSPCC.”

Polly said: “Hopefully, the young people involved had a night they will never forget, just like our players, staff and supporters.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the council’s children’s services team and the NSPCC.”

*Names have been changed to protect their identity