Welcome to a special edition of the Sutton United Talk Time Podcast.
In this episode, we step away from the action on the pitch to focus on something just as important, the people, stories and community that make Sutton United what it is.
Mike is joined by two inspiring guests, each showing in their own way how football can change lives.
First up is Karen, who shares her incredible journey since discovering Parkinson’s walking football through the Sutton United Foundation. What started as simply getting involved has led to a life-changing moment, a call-up to represent England. Karen talks about what that means to her, how football has helped her manage Parkinson’s, and her mission to raise funds for an upcoming international tournament in Canada, including a major fundraising night at Sutton United.
Later, Mike speaks with Charlie from the Fantastic Freddie Foundation, the club’s Charity of the Year. Charlie tells the powerful story behind the foundation and how it is creating real opportunities for young adults with disabilities. From DJ academies and festival performances to skydiving and flying experiences, the foundation is all about breaking down barriers and giving young people the chance to live their lives to the fullest.
Together, these conversations highlight the real impact of football beyond the ninety minutes. Whether it is representing your country or creating opportunities for others, this is what community truly looks like.
🔗 Get Involved
Support Karen’s fundraiser: https://gofund.me/479ab9ce9
Learn more about The Fantastic Freddie Foundation: https://thefantasticfreddiefoundation.com/our-story
⏱️ Chapters
0:00 Intro and Welcome
2:15 Catching Up with Karen: Parkinson’s Walking Football
5:30 Growing the Community and Recent Tournaments
8:45 The Road to St George’s Park
12:15 The England Trial Experience
15:00 Getting the Call: Joining the National Squad
18:30 Fundraising for Canada: Quiz and Auction Night
22:15 Amazing Auction Prizes for Sutton Fans
25:45 How Football Helps Manage Parkinson’s Symptoms
28:30 Introducing Charlie and the Fantastic Freddie Foundation
31:15 Freddy’s Legacy: Breaking Barriers for Disabilities
34:00 DJ Academy and Summer Festival Trips
37:15 High Octane Adventures: Flying and Skydiving
40:00 How to Volunteer and Support the Foundation
42:30 Charity of the Year Highlights and Future Goals
43:37 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up
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