On Saturday, June 13, The Albion Foundation proudly hosted the inaugural Steve Moore Friendship Walking Football Tournament at West Bromwich Albion’s Academy, utilising both the 4G pitch and indoor Dome. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to Steve Moore, celebrating not only his life but the powerful sense of community and belonging that the Foundation continues to foster through its Cancer Kickers programme.
Steve first attended just the second-ever session of Cancer Kickers and, whenever his health allowed, became a familiar and much-loved face each Wednesday. Despite his battle with cancer, Steve remained committed to the group, cherishing the opportunity to enjoy football and regain a sense of normality, even if only for a couple of hours each week. His passion and positivity left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Following Steve’s passing last year, his wife Ruth spoke movingly of how much the programme meant to him. In a generous and deeply thoughtful gesture, she chose to donate the collections made at his funeral to The Albion Foundation, ensuring that Steve’s legacy would continue to make a difference. From these donations, plans were formed to create a lasting tribute—an event that could bring people together year after year in Steve’s memory.
Working alongside Kevin, Foundation staff began shaping the vision for what would become the Steve Moore Friendship Tournament, inviting teams from across the country who share a similar commitment to supporting individuals affected by cancer and other health challenges.
The tournament welcomed sides representing Arsenal in the Community, Sky Blues in the Community (Coventry City), Norwich City Community Sports Foundation’s Big C Tackling Cancer, Neuro Walking Football Worcestershire (Movers and Shakers FC), Moore Than Cancer, and Beat the Block from Walsall FC Foundation. Joining them were two Cancer Kickers teams, making for a truly special and emotional day of football.
Teams competed in a round-robin format, with matches taking place throughout the morning on the Academy’s 4G pitch. Following a break for lunch, provided by AF Catering, the action continued in the Dome where the remaining group games and knockout stages were played. The fast-paced schedule kept energy high, but the focus remained firmly on friendship, wellbeing, and shared experience.
Former West Bromwich Albion players Joe Mayo and Micky Fudge were also in attendance, taking in the atmosphere of the day, engaging with teams and spectators, and helping to present medals and trophies—adding to the sense of occasion for everyone involved.
Beyond the football, organisations including Prostate Cancer UK, Let’s Talk Hope, Healthy Sandwell, and Utilita Energy were on hand, offering vital information, advice, and support to participants and spectators alike—highlighting the holistic approach that underpins each organisation’s work.
The atmosphere throughout the day reflected the impact of the event, with participants sharing just how meaningful it had been. One Cancer Kickers participant said:
“As a Baggies fan I felt very proud of what the Albion Foundation and others achieved with this event, and my thanks goes to everyone who helped make it happen.”
A Moore Than Cancer player added:
“The tournament was absolutely brilliant. It ticked all the boxes of community, support, joy, hope, fun, kindness, understanding and safety. Thank you Kevin, Chloe and all at the Foundation.”
After a competitive group stage, Cancer Kickers 1, Arsenal in the Community, Sky Blues in the Community, and Moore Than Cancer progressed to the semi-finals. Arsenal in the Community and Moore Than Cancer emerged victorious, setting up a final that perfectly reflected the spirit of the day.
In a tightly contested match, neither side could find a breakthrough, and the final ended 0-0. In keeping with the tournament’s values of camaraderie and respect, both teams initially expressed a desire to share the title. However, in the spirit of friendly competition, a penalty shootout followed. After a series of well-taken penalties, Moore Than Cancer edged the victory as Arsenal’s final effort struck the post.
Reflecting on the event, Ruth Moore shared:
“Lots of work went into this and for the time I was there, everyone was smiling, happy and enjoying a marvellous day! Thanks for all your hard work and preparation that went into making this such a brilliant celebration of life and football.”
She added:
“A totally perfect day. Thank you to all the teams, the foundation, the referees, and the spectators for making it so. Steve would have loved it.”
The Albion Foundation would like to extend a sincere thank you to all players, staff, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to such a meaningful occasion. Special thanks go to referees Bob Humphries and Lee Morris for officiating throughout the day.
Above all, the tournament stood as a powerful reminder of Steve Moore’s legacy—bringing people together, creating moments of joy, and proving that football truly has the power to change lives.
