The Football season has come to a close, but here in the West Midlands, a more personal end was being played. One in which members of the Birmingham Adult Transplant Sport Team played against the Blues All Stars. The former are all people who have been given the gift of life by a generous donor, whether that be organ or bone marrow. The latter are former professionals who have played for Birmingham City Football Club.

Arranged by Martin Searle to raise money for the University Hospitals Birmingham Charity, the match took place at the Cradley Town Football & Social Club. The owner of the club allowed the Birmingham Adult Transplant Sport Team to play in their team’s colours, leading to a clash of red vs blue. Upon arriving, the music was already in full swing by DJ Jim. As things were set up, everyone started arriving, filling up the stands with drinks in hand ready for the match to begin. Along with special guests Councillor Hilary Bills, who has recently become Mayor of Dudley, and Deputy Lieutenant Dr. Lucy Martin.

Those special guests were part of the pre-match introductions, shaking hands with both teams and the referees. Then the match began. Played on the full field, but with 35 minutes each way, each team was giving it their all. There was plenty of action on the field, with the crowd enjoying it all. And there I was, doing my best to get as many shots of a different kind as possible. Stood at one end on the pitch within the shade, I was snapping away with my camera all throughout.

The Blues All Stars were quick in gaining a few goals, which didn’t deter the Birmingham Adult Transplant Sport Team. Plenty of great moves were made, but they weren’t enough until the very end. The end result might have favoured the Blues All Stars, but both teams were happy with a match well played. With the transplant recipients happy to have the opportunity to play against former professionals.

With the match over, the music kicked into gear again as everyone headed inside. There was food, provided by the staff of the Cradley Town Football & Social Club. A good buffet full of sandwiches, chips, pasta, and rice. Then it was time for the auction. Many things were on offer, with a few signed footballs, team shirts, and items from other sports such as snooker and cricket. Most of it was bid for, with the proceeds from those items also going to the UHB Charity.

It was an enjoyable event to be watching. The reactions from those in the stands to every miss, every goal, showed just how much they were loving it. All the players certainly seemed to be enjoying it, as the energy from both teams was visible throughout the 70 minutes on the pitch. Even inside with the auction, people were having fun trying to claim the high interest items for themselves.

The event is just one of many ways that awareness is raised for life not being over for someone who has a transplant. The gift of life helps recipients continue being active and enjoying what they love. The University Hospitals Birmingham Charity is helping to provide transplants recipients the best care possible with the new transplant centre being opened at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.