On Sunday 11th August, The Bridge for Heroes UTD played at Lynn Sports for the 8.56 foundation Time to Talk Football event. 180 players and 18 teams came together for the event, including The Bridge for Heroes.

The 8:56 Foundation aims to raise awareness, and increase the profile and reduce the stigma associated with mental health. By using sport as an aid, the 8:56 Foundation was conceived to encourage men to talk and reduce the risk of loneliness and isolation.

8:56 Foundation story

On 15 April 2021, the world tragically lost Lee Calton to suicide at the age of 37. Lee was an incredibly popular and well respected man. So why the 8:56 Foundation? Lee was a massive football fan, who supported Arsenal and followed his local team King’s Lynn Town FC.

Lee and his friends would catch the 08:56 train out of King’s Lynn Station on a Saturday morning with his friends. These days were filled with laughter, banter, friendship, the occasional beer, and not forgetting the football itself. 8:56 therefore represents something Lee held in such high regard; happy times, fond memories and a group of friends that were always there for each other.

Whilst the 8:56 is a time, it also represents a journey. Just like Lee and his friends on match day, the 8:56 represents strength, support and sense of belonging that can be found in a group. Whether you’re winning or losing, whatever the weather, they turn up regardless.

Big thank you to all of those that came along and supported the team. We hear they won a game!

The team are already looking forward to next year!