Inspire Suffolk FC, previously Ipswich Town Disabled FC, are playing a match in memory of Justin Earley, a former player who died earlier this year, on Sunday 21st September at Dellwood Avenue, the home of Felixstowe and Walton United (KO 2.30pm).
Ben Hennon, who founded Ipswich Town Disabled FC in 2003, told TWTD: "Justin was in the first handful of players that I signed for the club and was involved right up until he passed away earlier this year.
"The idea of the match is to reunite as many of Justin's former teammates from the early seasons of ITDFC to play against the current side, which has been renamed following the change from the ITFC Community Trust to Inspire Suffolk.
"JJ, who was only 28 when he died after suffering a heart attack following an infection, was born with a defective heart valve, but he never allowed this to get the better of him.
"He lived for the game of football, following Ipswich Town avidly, as well as supporting local clubs such as Needham Market.
"He signed for ITDFC back in its founding season as a fresh-faced 17-year-old lad. He was brimming with enthusiasm for the game, just waiting for the opportunity to represent the club colours with the pride and passion that he felt was deserved.
"It was thanks to players with attitudes like JJ’s that helped the club to become a success and in turn help us and many others to grow in confidence in both our personal and professional lives.
"Funds raised from the match and raffle will be split and donated to the British Heart Foundation and a benevolent fund for Justin's mum.”
Entry is £3 for adults and £1 for children under-10, with tickets available on the gate or in advance from Ben Hennon via 07701 041572 or benhennon83@gmail.com or Sam Nunn on 07808 554686.
Prizes donated for the raffle so far include a hamper of Beauty Products from SBC (Simply Beautiful Collection), two hospitality tickets worth £70 each to a league game at Crawley Town, vouchers for bowling at Bear’s Boutique in Ipswich and vouchers for bowling at Kingpin. If you would like to donate a prize, contact Ben or Sam.
You can find out more about disability football at Inspire Suffolk via their website here.