The world needs a Father

2. Charlie*– A Father Who Protects

Charlie’s dad is in and out of prison. When he’s around, he brings chaos, not comfort. Charlie is a gifted footballer, but his anger often spills onto the pitch. His home isn’t a safe place. 

We pray that Charlie is learning that his heavenly Father is different:
“When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned.” – Isaiah 43:2
God protects, disciplines in love, and offers refuge. Charlie is discovering a new kind of safety—one that doesn’t depend on circumstances.

3. Hana and Mariam*– A Father Who Provides

These sisters lost their father to violence in the Middle East. Their mum, bringing them to the UK in a truck and raising four children alone, struggles to make ends meet. They sometimes come to football with a shopping trolley, hoping for food. 

But they’re learning to trust a Father whose resources never run dry:
“My God will supply every need of yours.” – Philippians 4:19
Through the kindness of coaches and the provision of God, they’re experiencing care that goes beyond the pitch. 

4. Mia*– A Father Who Delights in You

Mia was just eight when we met her. She had a dog bite on her face but still wanted to play football. When asked about parental consent for photos, she said, “My Dad wouldn’t care what happened to me—you could sell me and he wouldn’t be bothered.” 

No one had ever delighted in Mia. But God does:
“You are precious and honoured in my sight.” – Isaiah 43:4
Through Sports Friends, Mia is learning that she is loved—not for what she does, but simply because she is. 

Through the kindness of coaches and the provision of God, they’re experiencing care that goes beyond the pitch. 

5. Amir*– A Father Who Loves Unconditionally

Amir doesn’t have a dad, but he longs for one. He plays for a local team and begs his Sports Friends coaches to come watch him play, just so someone is there to cheer him on. 

He’s discovering a love that doesn’t depend on performance:
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
God’s love is constant, sacrificial, and unconditional. Amir is learning that he doesn’t have to earn it—it’s already his. 

A Global Movement of Father Figures

Radcliffe is just one town. But across the globe, 14,000 Sports Friends coaches are stepping into the lives of 280,000 young people, becoming mentors, protectors, providers, and encouragers. Most importantly, they are introducing children to the Father of the fatherless: 

“Father of the fatherless . . . is God in his holy dwelling.” – Psalm 68:5 

In a world aching for fatherhood, Sports Friends UK is offering hope—one child, one coach, one promise at a time. 

*Names changed.