Dad Starts Soccer Team for Grieving Fathers Who Have Lost a Child. Now They Hope to Create More Across the Country (Exclusive)

In the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, a unique football team is bringing together fathers who have experienced the profound loss of a child. Forget-Me-Knot FC, founded by Sean Coleman in September 2025, has grown from a mere six original members to a robust community of approximately 36 dads who share a common bond through their grief and a love for the beautiful game.

Coleman, whose personal journey of loss inspired him to take action, created the club as a sanctuary for fathers seeking solace and connection. According to member Aaron Way, whose daughter Willow passed away in August, this initiative addresses a critical gap for men who often find it difficult to express their emotions in the wake of such heartbreak. “Grief after losing a child can feel incredibly isolating, and men don’t always have spaces where they feel comfortable discussing their feelings,” he remarked.

The team regularly convenes every other Monday at the Port Vale Foundation in Burslem, a venue made possible through partnerships with Royal Stoke University Hospital, University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, and the Port Vale Foundation. Forget-Me-Knot FC is not just a football club; it serves as a therapeutic outlet for dads navigating the emotional landscape of loss.

The sessions begin with a meaningful practice called “pits and peaks,” where members gather to share their experiences of the previous week, both the challenging and the uplifting moments. Way explained, “It’s a safe space for everyone to speak openly without fear of judgement.” After this time of sharing, the fathers head onto the pitch, focusing on camaraderie and connection rather than competition—a refreshing approach in the world of sport.

As the team continues to gain traction, many of the new members learned about Forget-Me-Knot FC through word of mouth, the bereavement team from UHNM Charity, or local support networks. “Awareness has spread as more people share the positive impact the club is having on their lives,” Way said, highlighting the power of community and social media in reaching others who may be silently suffering.

Beyond football, the group engages in various activities that foster a sense of belonging. They participate in community events, raise awareness about baby loss, and occasionally play matches with other clubs aimed at supporting bereaved parents. Social activities such as meals and game nights are also organised to ensure that all members feel included, regardless of their ability to attend football sessions.

The camaraderie built within Forget-Me-Knot FC creates a strong sense of trust, allowing members to express themselves freely. “Football offers a healthy outlet for stress and helps us reconnect with others. It allows us to find moments of normalcy while honouring the memories of our children,” Way observed.

The club has ambitious plans to expand its reach, aiming to support even more grieving families across the UK. “We want to continue building partnerships with organisations dedicated to supporting bereaved families, and we aim to raise awareness about baby loss and mental health,” said Way. The team also aspires to have matches against other groups with similar missions, further solidifying their community ties.

Surprisingly, the group has garnered notable recognition, which was not the original aim but serves a significant purpose. “The goal was simply to support dads through their incredibly difficult journey,” Way explained. Nonetheless, the attention they’ve received could facilitate important conversations surrounding grief, particularly for fathers who might feel alienated. “If this recognition encourages even one person to seek help, then it’s absolutely worthwhile,” he added.

As Forget-Me-Knot FC continues its vital work, its message remains clear: no one should navigate the journey of grief alone. “Grief doesn’t adhere to any timeline, and everyone processes it differently,” Way reflected. He emphasised the importance of seeking support and connecting with those who understand the journey—whether through a support group, a community, or a team like theirs. “It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s perfectly acceptable to take things one day at a time.”

With such a promising framework, Forget-Me-Knot FC stands as a testament to the healing power of community and sport, offering hope and companionship to fathers enduring the unthinkable.