Coventry City Football Club (CCFC) brought smiles to the faces of patients, families, staff and volunteers at our Coventry Myton Hospice this week, as players took time out of their busy schedule to pay us a visit.
From swapping stories with lifelong Sky Blues fans to striking a pose for photos, their visit truly hit the back of the net when it came to making a difference to everyone they met.
CCFC footballer, Jack Rudoni, said:
It was brilliant, I’m glad we could come and see everyone today. There’s so much good spirit here, lots of Coventry fans and everyone’s excited for the game on Monday. Coming to do something like this gives us an extra lift before a big game, seeing how much it means to everyone, so I’m glad we could bring a smile to people’s faces.
David, who’s been receiving care at Myton for the past three weeks, said:
I’ve been a fan for 75 years so this was such a treat. I’m leaving Myton tomorrow so the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. It meant so much to have the players come and see us all and hopefully it will help raise awareness of Myton and the wonderful work they do.
The CCFC squad, as well as beloved mascot Sky Blues Sam, enjoyed chatting with supporters, reminiscing about match day memories and spending time connecting with those receiving Myton’s care, as well as our wonderful staff and volunteers.
Michael, whose brother Tim is at Coventry Myton Hospice, said:
I’ve been a CCFC fan for 61 years and in all that time I’ve never missed a home game, but I’ve never had the chance to meet the players. They were all so lovely and gave us so much of their time. It was such a special experience to share with my brother.
CCFC footballer, Brandon Thomas-Asante, said:
It means a lot. Coming here is an opportunity to see into the lives of people who support us and knowing that everyone is going through something as well, it makes us want to give back, not just here, but on the pitch as well. Seeing how people remain positive in tough situations is inspiring, not just in the sense of Coventry but in the perspective of all of humanity. It’s amazing to see how people can come together.
Jeanette, whose aunt Dot has been at Coventry Myton Hospice for a week and a half, said:
It was so lovely to see a smile on Aunt Dot’s face – she even gave them all a thumbs up! We’re so grateful we got to share this moment with her. Little Ruby even played rock, paper, scissors with Sky Blues Sam – and of course she won!
CCFC’s Coventry-raised Josh Eccles said:
It’s one of those things that means a lot to me being from Coventry and playing for the club, it’s important for me to come and do my bit for the community. It’s nice for us to come here, go round the hospice, see what the staff do, see the patients and the unfortunate ones who can’t come to the games. It’s nice for us to come out here and see them and have a little chat.
CCFC goalkeeper, Ben Wilson, said:
To be able to give people joy and put smiles on people’s faces is amazing and that’s what I live by from day to day now. If I can put a smile on someone’s face then I feel like I’ve done a good deed for the day, and I feel we as players are able to do that. It’s amazing to see and the response has been great, the spirit has been lifted and that’s a fantastic feeling for us and everyone at the hospice.
Sue Medlock, Ward Manager at Coventry Myton Hospice, and season ticket holder at CCFC, arranged the visit, she said:
We are incredibly grateful to the Coventry City players for taking the time out of their busy season to visit us. Their kindness and generosity brought smiles to so many faces. Moments like these are so special, helping families create memories during what can be a very challenging time. We can’t thank the team enough for their support and for taking the time to visit Myton.
At Myton, we know that spending quality time and making memories with loved ones is priceless. Supporting families to enjoy these precious moments – while providing the expert, compassionate care we are known for – is at the heart of everything we do. Visits like this bring joy, connection and lasting memories, when they matter most.
