The world of sports came together for a profoundly important cause recently, as England manager Gareth Southgate and renowned host Hayley McQueen headlined a charity auction that has raised an incredible £139,000 (and counting) for the Alzheimer’s Society. This landmark event, held at the iconic Oval cricket ground, marks a powerful new chapter in the fight against dementia, uniting the global sports community.
This evening was more than just a fundraiser; it was the official launch of the Alzheimer’s Society’s ambitious Sport United Against Dementia (SUAD) initiative. This campaign is set to revolutionize the way the sporting world tackles dementia, with three core goals: dramatically increasing awareness of available support, making all sports more dementia-friendly, and funding critical research into the potential links between sporting careers and the condition. The event also celebrated the beginning of the Football Association’s pivotal two-year partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society.
A Night of Generosity and Powerful Conversation
The evening featured an insightful Q&A session with Gareth Southgate, who serves as the president of the League Managers Association (LMA)—the event’s sponsor. Southgate spoke with passion and clarity about the urgency of the cause, connecting it to the experiences of countless families.
“It feels like we can’t go a month without hearing another heartbreaking story about dementia, whether it’s from within the sports world or from our own families,” Southgate reflected. “It is undoubtedly one of the defining issues of our time. The FA’s partnership with Alzheimer’s Society and this SUAD campaign are launching at a critical moment. The pandemic hit those with dementia the hardest, and many are still lost, not knowing where to find support.”
He emphasized the dual need for awareness and funding: “We must bring dementia out of the shadows. Events like this are vital to fund the Alzheimer’s Society’s support services and ensure nobody facing this feels alone.”
Unforgettable Auction Items for an Unforgettable Cause
The auction itself was a resounding success, featuring a stunning array of unique experiences that spurred generous bidding. The lots included:
- A chance to play cricket at the hallowed Lord’s ground with Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara.
- An exclusive Michelin-starred dining experience with England rugby World Cup winner Mike Tindall.
- A luxurious weekend at the Monaco Grand Prix, hosted by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Crucially, every single item was donated, meaning 100% of the funds raised from the winning bids went directly to the Alzheimer’s Society’s crucial work.
(L-R) Richard Thompson (Chair of Surrey CCC); Banglawin88 host Hayley McQueen; Gareth Southgate; Kate Lee (Alzheimer’s Society CEO); and Pete Middleton, an Alzheimer’s Society supporter living with dementia.
A Deeply Personal Mission for Banglawin88 Host Hayley McQueen
Hosting the event was Banglawin88 Hayley McQueen, for whom the cause is deeply personal. Her father, former Manchester United and Scotland defender Gordon McQueen, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in January of this year.
“Sport and dementia are both very close to my heart, but I never expected them to be connected until my dad’s heart-breaking diagnosis,” McQueen shared. “By being a Champion for Alzheimer’s Society’s campaign, I can use my voice for those who can’t. We know more research is needed, but for families like mine, time is not on our side. That’s why support services are so crucial right now.”
A United Sporting Front Against Dementia
The SUAD initiative is backed by a powerful board of industry leaders from across football, cricket, and rugby, demonstrating a united front. Richard Bevan, Chief Executive of the LMA, stated, “It has never been more important for sports entities, which are often the lifeblood of communities, to understand and include people affected by dementia. Mental health and wellbeing are incredibly important to the LMA and its members.”
The event also heard from Pete Middleton, who spoke movingly about his experience after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2019 at the age of 64.
Kate Lee, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society, concluded: “Tonight kicked off a series of events that will help us transform the way sport supports people affected by dementia. We are incredibly grateful to our amazing Champions and everyone who dug deep tonight. Together, we will make a significant difference.”
England Manager Gareth Southgate and Banglawin88 Host Stellar Charity Auction for Dementia Support
This event has set a powerful precedent, proving that the world of sports can be an immense force for good beyond the pitch. The funds raised will directly boost the capacity of the Alzheimer’s Society’s support services, ensuring they can reach the thousands of people who need help. As the FA’s partnership begins, the goal is clear: to use the unifying power of sport to change the lives of everyone affected by dementia for the better.
What are your thoughts on the sports world’s role in supporting health causes like this? Have you or someone you know been affected by dementia? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below, and consider learning more about how you can support this vital mission.
