Veterans football team proudly takes part in VE Day Cup

Church Homeless Charity was proud to support a Middlesbrough veterans football team as they took part in this year’s MVFC VE Day Cup tournament.

The event brought together 12 veteran teams for a competitive seven-a-side tournament marking VE Day, with ex-service personnel coming together to enjoy football, friendship and the camaraderie that can be so important after military life.

Thanks to funding from Church Homeless Charity, the Middlesbrough team stepped onto the pitch in a brand-new kit designed alongside local veterans.

Inspired by classic Middlesbrough football shirts and featuring local landmarks including the Transporter Bridge and Newport Bridge, the kit reflected a real sense of local pride and identity.

While the team may not have lifted the trophy, the day was a huge success and a reminder of how powerful these opportunities can be for veterans. Events like the MVFC VE Day Cup create space for people to reconnect, support one another and feel part of something together again.

Steve Moran, Service Manager at Hardwick House, said:

“What a day at the MVFC VE Day Cup, a 12-team tournament that tested everyone involved. While the pictures with the trophy may be misleading as we didn’t win, we had a great time and thanks to Church Homeless Charity we really looked the part.

“These events mean so much to so many.”

At Church Homeless Charity, we know that small grants can lead to much bigger outcomes. Supporting this team was about far more than funding a football kit – it was about helping veterans build confidence, connection and belonging through shared experiences.

We are incredibly proud to have played a small part in helping the team represent Middlesbrough at such a meaningful event and to support opportunities that bring veterans together through friendship, community and sport.

Read more about how we support veterans experiencing homelessness.