As the sixth season of Man v Fat Carlisle football concluded recently, the league took a moment to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its players at the club’s end of season awards ceremony.
Celebrating the dedication, determination and positive progress of the teams, the event showcased the journeys that each player has been on: improving their physical and mental health, forging relationships with their fellow players, and showcasing their skills on the pitch.
Man v Fat Carlisle is a weight-loss football league for overweight or obese men in Cumbria. It provides a supportive and friendly environment to help lose weight, enjoy a weekly kick about, and improve members’ overall health and wellbeing.
Speaking at the event, the Carlisle league’s head coach Beverley Young said: “I can’t believe the club is now officially two years old! I’m so grateful we have the opportunity to take a little time out of the fixtured games to celebrate and share our season’s achievements – whether weight, football or personal.
“Season six was our best season for weight loss yet. An incredible 190kg was lost between the players. That’s the weight of a Bengal tiger or a Kawasaki 650!”
Kicking off the night with the much-coveted Top Weight Loss Scorer, Brian Brooks found himself in the spotlight.
His remarkable and consistent weekly weight loss saw him take home the award. He had more reasons to celebrate later in the evening when he was further recognised with the Amazing Loser award, having lost an impressive 10 per cent of his total body weight since the start of the season and 20 per cent overall.
Hot on his heels for both awards was Lewis Whittaker, who also lost an incredible 9.5 per cent of his body weight in less than four months.
Mike Saul of Scran United Reds, was applauded for achieving the Biggest Waist Loss award, losing almost five inches from his waistline this season alone.
In recognition of their behind-the-scenes contributions, Mike Cameron and Shane Statter were awarded with Clubman medals and were applauded for consistently going the extra mile.
Mike’s help with online surveys and spreadsheets was invaluable, and Shane stepping in to captain both the Scran United Reds and his own Fatarsealona Oranges sides was commendable.
One of the most heart-warming highlights of the ceremony came as two new entrants for season six, father-son duo Charlie Moultrie and Aaron Moultrie, were recognised for their remarkable milestones. Both achieved their 10 per cent weight-loss target.
Charlie shared, “I joined MVF with my son to support him on his way to a healthy lifestyle. We both enjoy the benefits of MVF and would recommend it to anyone who wants to give it a shot.
“To have banter with your kids is magical and sets you up for a better future for them and yourself, as you have a platform to talk with them on issues in the future.”
Bringing the focus back on to the pitch, the next award of the evening was the Golden Boot winner.
This season, Brendan Reilly topped the charts with an astounding 32 goals to his name in just 14 games, putting him ahead of Ash Clarkson with 19 goals and Ian Gillatt on 18.
As the ceremony continued, Rhys Ash of Borussia Muncheneverything Whites, was honoured with the Players’ Player award. Rhys was recognised for his persistent support and encouragement of others, as well as his skill on the pitch.
The Goalkeeper of the Season award went to Saint-Eat Again Green’s Dennis Craik.
With man of the match nominations coming in almost every week, Dennis was a worthy successor to Kevin Brough, who had held the title for the past two seasons.
The team-based awards brought more applause and celebration, especially for Parmesan Belgrade Blacks.
An historic season for the side saw them take home the season six cup, the top team weight loss trophy, and the league title after going 10 games unbeaten.
Beverley added: “There are so many reasons to celebrate, but I personally love seeing how the players reach out to welcome new lads to the club and to fellow club members during their personal challenges. It can often be unseen, but it is what I absolutely love about our club.
“Man v Fat Carlisle is the best club for men to lose weight, build fitness, make new friends and be part of a great community.”
The Man v Fat Carlisle football league is for all abilities, and there’s no age limit. Players can go at their own pace, regardless of fitness. For more information, or to join the programme, visit www.manvfatfootball.org/carlisle or search ‘Man v Fat Football Carlisle’ on Facebook.
Cumbria Crack carries match reports from the league every week. Read the latest here.
