ABI Football Group- What it Means to the Community
For many people living with an acquired brain injury, the journey back to confidence, connection and identity can feel long and isolating. Our ABI Football Group exists to change that — and as our community grows, so does the need for wider support to ensure it can continue transforming lives.
In a recent conversation, our Director and Occupational Therapist, Ryan Price, sat down with player Nic to reflect on what the group truly means to those who take part.
Nic spoke honestly about life following brain injury — the loss of identity, the loneliness, and the sense of disconnection that can come when everyday life changes overnight. Before joining the group, he describes feeling isolated and unsure of where he belonged. Through football and peer connection, that began to change.
Today, the ABI Football Group offers something far deeper than weekly sessions. It provides a space where individuals with shared experiences support one another, rebuild confidence and rediscover purpose. It is a place where people are understood without explanation, and where progress — however big or small — is celebrated together.
Ryan shared how vital peer support is in neuro-rehabilitation, not only for physical recovery but for rebuilding identity and self-worth. The sense of belonging created on the pitch extends far beyond football, helping participants reconnect with their communities and themselves.
Looking ahead: a celebration of resilience
The group is now preparing for an exciting milestone — an upcoming 11-a-side stadium match. For players, this is far more than a game. It is a powerful celebration of resilience, teamwork and personal progress. Walking out onto a stadium pitch represents confidence regained, friendships formed and barriers overcome.
However, opportunities like this are only possible through the generosity of sponsors, partners and the wider community.
Why community support matters
This team continues to grow because people believe in it! To help us continue to offer opportunities like our upcoming 11-a-side match, we are reaching out to our colleagues and local businesses to help us create a meaningful match-day experience!
By partnering with us, sponsors are not just supporting a football team — they are directly contributing to rehabilitation, mental wellbeing and social reconnection for people across our community.
Get involved
If you or your organisation are able to support our 11-a-side match, we would love to hear from you. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available at a range of levels, and every contribution helps us continue making a difference.
🎟️ Tickets for our upcoming match are available via Eventbrite here.
🤝 To discuss sponsorship or community partnership opportunities, please contact rachael@headsuptherapies.co.uk.
This group is about far more than football.
It’s about rebuilding lives, together.
