As another warm spring evening settled over the Harraby pitches, the Man v Fat Carlisle Football League once again sparked with the energy of close competition and the camaraderie of teammates.
The league, where six-a-side football blends with a supportive weight-loss programme, saw another uplifting week of play, celebrating individual achievements, shared determination and the collective spirit that defines this unique initiative.
The league standings highlight the fierce competitiveness of the season so far, with Parmesan Belgrade Blacks leading the table: the team looking almost untouchable with six victories in as many games.
Hot on their heels are Scran United Reds on seven points, while the narrow point range among all teams signals an unpredictable and thrilling season ahead, where a few good performances can dramatically shift the standings.
This week saw some close match-ups, with Parmesan Belgrade Blacks besting Fatarselona Oranges 10-7, Fatburn Rovers holding Scran United Reds to a draw 11-11, and Borussia Muncheneverything Whites overpowering Saint Eat-Again Greens 8-3. All scores reflect the added bonus goals from the teams’ weight loss efforts and food diary tracking.
The week’s stand-out players, selected as Players of the Match, made their mark not only with their goal-scoring prowess but also with their overall contributions on the pitch.
Kevin Brough, from the Blacks, made a series of stunning saves in the first half, setting his team up for a thrilling comeback in the second half. Meanwhile, Dan McAulay of the Blues showcased impressive touch and control throughout the game, ending with a spectacular last-gasp equaliser.
Tim Linford, Whites, was lauded for his pinpoint passing throughout the match, whilst Ryan Roberts stood out for Scran United Reds, excelling in both attack and defence and contributing three goals.
Ben Snell of the Oranges impressed with his expansive and direct play, which created numerous chances for his team. Finally, Ed Cooper of the Greens was a constant thorn in the opposition’s side, with his excellent movement and work-rate earning him Man of the Match.
Beyond the excitement on the field, significant weight loss triumphs were also recorded. Jack Cooper from the Oranges led the pack, shedding an impressive 2.5 kgs in his first week.
Following closely, Simon Patrick of Borussia Muncheneverything made significant strides with a loss of 2.2kg. Danny Etheridge, also of the Oranges, showed commendable progress. From Scran United Reds, Stu Wareing’s determination paid off with a 1.7kg loss, and the same accolade went to Jonny ‘Turtle’ Brown from Fatburn Rovers Blues.
Our star player spotlight this week shines on Ed Cooper, a 44-year-old senior lecturer from Carlisle.
Having been recognised for his dedicated efforts and impressive movement on the pitch, Ed said of the recent match: “It was a really enjoyable and close game, played with smiles on faces.”
Beyond his evident passion for football, Ed’s commitment to the Man v Fat league is driven by his own personal health goals.
Joining primarily to lose weight and increase his activity level, Ed is also battling Lyme Disease, and sees the league as a significant part of his recovery strategy. The blend of camaraderie, competitive spirit and an overall focus on health is exactly what brings and keeps players like Ed in the league.
Reflecting on this week’s performance, coach Beverley Young shared, “We’ve had some truly cracking results across the club, especially given a few key players were missing. It’s encouraging to see half the teams scoring weight-loss hat-trick goals.
“A special mention must go to our new player, Jack Cooper, who lost 2.5kg in his first week – a fantastic start to his journey with us!”
In a testament to the league’s excellence, this weekend saw Beverley and Dan McAulay, promotions expert and Fatburn Rovers midfielder, make their way to Manchester for the national Man v Fat awards. The pair flew the flag for Carlisle on the national stage.
Beverley, recognised for her outstanding leadership and motivational skills, was honoured as the North Coach of the Year, a proud moment for the entire Man v Fat Carlisle club.
Described by the club’s players as “always willing to go the extra mile”, “deserving the keys to the city” and “a force of nature”, she is a truly worthy winner.
Beverley added, “It was an amazing evening, with so many worthy winners amongst players, coaches, referees, top weight losers, community heroes and lots more. What men can achieve by being part of this amazing programme is outstanding.
“I’m so proud to play a part of it as coach in the only club in Cumbria. I’m also pretty proud to be the only female nominee and winner!
“Carlisle United won their Wembley place at the weekend, and this was nearly as emotional! Our Carlisle club received accolades from all round the country and it’s all down to the wonderful support and enthusiasm from my boys in Carlisle.”
The Man v Fat Carlisle Football League is much more than just a competition; it’s a supportive and friendly environment where men can improve their overall health and wellbeing. With more than 1200lbs lost so far and significant improvements in players’ physical and mental health, it truly is a testament to the power of community and shared goals.
Across the country, the FA-affiliated Man v Fat program has over 8,500 participants in over 170 clubs. The initiative targets men who are overweight or obese, with a BMI greater than 27.5.
For more information or to join the programme, visit www.manvfatfootball.org/carlisle or search ‘Man v Fat Football Carlisle’ on Facebook.
