Love Stevenage had the pleasure to speak with Danny Mole, the Chairman and Co-Founder of Lads Speak Out FC. Alongside Mitch Te Braake and Tom Nielow, they established Lads Speak Out in September 2022 with the goal of raising awareness about men’s mental health through football. Their journey officially kicked off with their first game in November 2022, and since then, they’ve been passionate about using football as a way to bring people together and start important conversations.
Jay Ellis leads the charge as the Manager of Lads Speak Out FC, while Tom Nielow, who co-founded the club, also serves as the Manager and Chairman of their dedicated Fundraiser Team. Dan Dawson supports the fundraising efforts as the Assistant Manager, helping push forward with their mission. Together, they’re not just a team on the pitch – we’re a community committed to making a difference.
What inspired the creation of Lads Speak Out Football, and who were the key figures involved in its founding?
In 2018, I lost a close friend who tragically lost his battle with mental health. It was a really tough time, and I felt like I needed to do something that could help others in similar situations. Football has always been a big part of my life, so I thought, why not create a space where lads could come together, play football, and have a chat if they need to?
In 2022, I met Tom and Mitch while playing for another team. After a few conversations, we all realised we shared the same passion – raising awareness for men’s mental health. That’s when we decided to set up our own team, which is how Lads Speak Out Football was born.
Can you describe the initial goals and vision for Lads Speak Out Football when it was first established?
Initially, we just wanted to create a space where lads could come together and play football on a weekly basis. The main idea was to make it an environment where people felt comfortable enough to open up about any struggles they were facing. It wasn’t really about creating a formal team at first.
We never expected to have games straight away or even turn it into a proper football team. But as soon as we started, the interest from lads wanting to join was way bigger than we anticipated. After just a couple of games, we realised we’d started something really special.
How has the organisation evolved since its inception, both in terms of mission and activities?
It’s grown massively! Because of the number of lads who wanted to play, we ended up creating two teams – Lads Speak Out FC, who are now playing in League 3 of the Sunday League, and Lads Speak Out Fundraiser, which organises charity games almost every week.
The fundraiser team focuses on raising money for a cause that’s close to our hearts – Mind in Mid Herts. It’s incredible how fast everything has progressed, and we’re really proud of how the community has come together to support us.
Can you share some examples of the impact Lads Speak Out Football has had on players, fans, and the wider community?
The feedback we’ve received from the lads has been amazing. We asked a few players from both teams how LSO has impacted them, and the responses were heartwarming. A lot of the lads have mentioned how they’ve made new friends, found extra support, and appreciate having a safe space to talk and play football.
There’s one young lad who has supported us since the beginning. He told us that having LSO as his support network has been a huge help for him, and he loves cheering us on because of the message we stand for. One of our players who was struggling with loneliness said that being part of the team has given him a reason to look forward to weekends, and knowing that the lads have his back has made a world of difference.
How does Lads Speak Out Football measure success, and what are some milestones the organisation has achieved so far?
Success for us is about lads turning up to our weekly meet-ups, having a chat, and playing football. If even just one lad speaks up each week, we feel like we’ve done what we set out to do.
Our biggest achievement so far has been joining the Sunday League. It’s a proper milestone for us. And on top of that, we’ve raised money for Mind in Mid Herts through our charity games. Honestly, every time we help someone open up, or when we raise money for mental health, it feels like we’ve scored the biggest win.
Are there any new initiatives or projects in the pipeline that you’re particularly excited about?
Yes, we’ve got some exciting stuff lined up! In the future, we’re looking to organise our own charity football tournament. The idea is to have charity teams from across Hertfordshire come together and compete for a cup. It’ll be a great way to raise both money and awareness for the charities involved.
We’re also thinking of setting up coffee evenings, so the lads can meet up away from the pitch and have a chat in a more relaxed environment. We believe it’s important to provide different kinds of spaces for conversation, not just on the football field.
How can individuals or organisations get involved with or support Lads Speak Out Football moving forward?
We’re always open to new players, businesses, or anyone who wants to get involved. If anyone is interested in being part of what we’re doing, they can reach out through our social media pages. Even if someone just needs to talk, we’re here for that too. The door is always open.
What has been the most rewarding experience for you personally in working with Lads Speak Out Football?
For me, it’s the messages we receive from people saying that LSO has helped change their lives. Creating a safe space where lads can feel comfortable, make friends, and play the game they love has been so rewarding. I’ve made lifelong friends through this team, and we’ve all become one big family. That sense of community and knowing that we’re making a difference is priceless.
How has being part of Lads Speak Out Football changed your perspective on football and its role in society?
Football has always been a massive part of my life, but my perspective has definitely shifted. Before LSO, I used to think football was all about winning or losing. Now, I realise it’s so much more than that.
Seeing the lads turn up every week, knowing they’ve got support both on and off the pitch, is more of a win than any scoreline could ever give. It’s become clear that football is a powerful tool for bringing people together and making a real difference in society.
If you could give one piece of advice to young football fans or players about the importance of speaking out on social issues, what would it be?
You’re never alone. Speaking out really does help. That’s not just our name; it’s our motto. Don’t be afraid to reach out because everyone matters, and there are always people who will listen and support you. Football is more than just a game – it can be a force for good.
