Cancer Kickers at the Hawthorns

Cancer is a word often only whispered but on March 14^th 2026 it will be shouted from the terraces at the Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion Football Club during their Championship game with Hull City. 

While the Baggies may be fighting a relegation battle how many of those watching from the terraces will be fighting a battle of their own? Dealing with a known cancer diagnosis or debating whether to attend that screening invitation. 

Research shows 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life. A diagnosis can cause isolation and loneliness particularly in men who find it difficult to open up about their thoughts and feelings. Family and friends may also struggle not knowing what to say or do.  

The Albion Foundation has designated March 14^th as Foundation Day. An opportunity to showcase a deserving cause and this year they have chosen Cancer Kickers Walking Football (CKWF). 

CKWF celebrates its 1^st Birthday on March 10^th and has grown in popularity week on week.  It is open to anyone who has been affected by Cancer and is not restricted to men only. Meeting every Wednesday for 2 hours, participants engage in light exercise, a game of footie, refreshments but more importantly find hope, support and friendship from everyone involved. 

In recent weeks, members of the CKWF have enjoyed a trip to the Emirates where we took on Arsenals Prostate Cancer Team and have trained at the WBA Training ground enjoying banter and a kick about with 1^st Team players including Club Captain Jed Wallace, Alex Mowatt, Charlie Taylor, George Campbell, Kristian Bielik and Chris Mepham. 

What to expect on the 14^th March?

Before the game members from The Albion Foundation, Cancer Kickers Walking Football and Specialist Professionals will be available both inside and outside the stadium to answer your questions, distribute leaflets and raise funds for the foundation. Testimonials will be displayed on the digital noticeboard and feature in the matchday programme. During the half time break CKWF members will take to the pitch with some of Albions ‘Old boys’ including Bob Taylor and Tony ‘Bomber’ Brown. 

It would be great to see you on 14^th March or any Wednesday at The Albion Foundation, Ray Hall Lane, B43 6JF. Start time 11.00 – 1pm. For further information call Kev on 07813101672

If football is not your game why not join the Cancer Rehab class at Kingstanding Wellbeing Centre, Dulwich Road, B44 0EW on Mondays 12 - 1pm or Thursdays 10.30 – 11.30. Following the session light refreshments will be provided and more importantly a chance to chat, ask questions or simply ‘step off’ life’s treadmill for a while in a relaxed and friendly environment. For further information call Mark on 07940926612

If you or a loved one has been affected by cancer the important thing to remember, is you are not alone so, please don’t suffer in silence. 

https://www.wba.co.uk/news/cancer-kickers-initiative-builds-community-f…

https://theaws.co.uk/my-cancer-journey/