MAN v FAT football club helps Thetford men shed excess weight and build new friendships

A football club that encourages men to kick their excess weight has been hailed a success.

The MAN v FAT club in Thetford has helped 20 men to collectively lose more than nine stone through its weekly football sessions that promote a fit and healthy lifestyle.

At the sessions, each player is weighed before battling it out on the pitch where both match results and individual weight loss contribute to an overall league table.

The club not only encourages weight loss but also fosters new friendships between the players while supporting their mental health.

Player Charlie Knott said: “My partner and I found out that we were expecting a baby and it gave me a real kick to try and get fitter and healthier so I could be a more active father and get involved in activities with my little one.

“I don’t think I’d be who I am today without being a part of MAN v FAT.

“Everyone has pushed me to hit my percentage goals which I’m now approaching 20 per cent weight loss.

“This has really helped me improve on many fronts, from confidence to general day to day fitness.”

MAN v FAT Football Thetford takes place every Tuesday evening at Breckland Leisure Centre in Croxton Road.

In addition to football, players receive off-the-pitch support, including healthy meal recipes, fitness tips, and full access to MAN v FAT’s online gym and mental health platform.

The club, which has grown from two teams to three, is looking for more players to join its squads and information about how to sign up can be found at manvfatfootball.org/thetford.

There are also clubs in Ipswich which take place at Portman Road and Ipswich North at Whitton Sports and Community Centre in Whitton Church Lane.

Lee Wicks, who coaches at the Thetford club, said: “It's a pleasure to be in a position to help out such a positive group, who are working on their own person goals but also all wanting the best for each other and the Thetford MAN v FAT community.

“MAN v FAT is a social group as well as being a weight loss and football group.

“Some of the guys have been here for years and are now very close friends - the way they encourage each other is great to see.

“I want the best for all the players and for them all to hit their short term and long term goals.”