On Wednesday, Norwich City Football Club brought festive cheer to The Nook, a children's hospice in Norfolk, during a heartwarming visit aimed at uplifting families navigating challenging times. This initiative underscores the club's commitment to engaging with the community, particularly during the holiday season. Read more about Mattsson and Clement Spread Festive Cheer at Local Hospital.
The delegation was led by men's captain Kenny McLean and included players such as Jack Stacey, Liam Gibbs, and Ben Chrisene, alongside women’s team members Sarah Quantrill and Millie Daviss. Sporting director Ben Knapper also joined the group as they spent a couple of hours connecting with families and distributing gifts, bringing joy to those present at the hospice.
This visit follows previous engagements at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and James Paget Hospital, showcasing the club's ongoing series of charitable activities. McLean, who has participated in similar charitable efforts before, described the experience as both humbling and fulfilling.
"You don't really know how to feel about it because it's a couple of hours out of your day, which is nothing really, and it makes the kids feel amazing," McLean stated. "We can give some gifts out and just see them with a smile on their face because the situation they're in is obviously difficult, hence why they're here. It's amazing to come and just see that little smile."
He acknowledged the challenges faced by the children and their families, noting the gratitude expressed during their visit. "It's obviously difficult for them and the parents, but when they're telling you that they're grateful for what you're doing, when it seems nothing to us really, it's a couple of hours out of the day. It's a great feeling to have that effect on people."
McLean, a familiar face at The Nook, praised the facility and its dedicated staff. "It's a special place. Obviously, the facility is amazing. The stuff that we saw is incredible. What the people here do, what the nurses and stuff do, is amazing," he remarked.
Throughout their visit, every member of the City party made a point to interact with the children, posing for photographs, signing autographs, and distributing presents, ensuring that families left with cherished memories.
For Norwich City, a club deeply rooted in its community, such visits serve as a crucial opportunity to bring joy to those experiencing hardships. Women's player Sarah Quantrill expressed her enthusiasm about being involved alongside her male counterparts. "It's nice to come and give the kids an extra boost just before Christmas, just to give them a smile and give them a present," she explained.
Quantrill further emphasised the club's collective spirit, stating, "You won't find anyone who hides away from doing this sort of thing. Whether it's the hospital visits, the school visits, the community visits, everyone wants to be part of that. I think that just shows how much of a family the club is, and how everyone just wants to do everything together."
As the festive season approaches, Norwich City continues to embody the spirit of giving, demonstrating that the impact of football reaches far beyond the confines of the pitch.