Meet Victor Ponnudurai, the founder of Stevenage United FC. This inspiring football team came to life in January 2023 as part of the MAN v FAT initiative, which focuses on helping men who are overweight achieve their weight-loss goals through football. It’s not just about the sport – it’s about health, fitness, and well-being too.
MAN v Fat Football is a programme designed to help men lose weight through football. It combines weekly games with weight-loss coaching, providing a supportive environment for players to get fitter while enjoying the sport. Teams earn extra points for losing weight, making the focus both on fitness and teamwork. Open to men with a BMI of 27.5 or above, it’s a great way to improve health and meet new people. Learn more about the Stevenage league here: MAN v Fat Football Stevenage
Victor’s vision for Stevenage United FC was to create a supportive environment where men could bond over a shared love of football while also working towards their fitness goals. The team originally started with 5-a-side matches on Thursday evenings at the Stevenage FC Academy. But soon, the players wanted more – a bigger challenge. So, Victor introduced an 11-a-side team, giving players the chance to take part in more competitive football matches.
The team has grown rapidly since its humble beginnings, and within just 18 months, it has become much more than just a football club. It’s now a community where players support each other, both on and off the pitch. The club combines sport with social responsibility, making a positive impact on both the players’ lives and the wider community.
One of the standout moments for Stevenage United FC came in August 2023 when the team partnered with CALM – the Campaign Against Living Miserably. CALM is a leading charity in the UK that is dedicated to preventing suicide, especially among men under 45, as it’s one of the biggest causes of death in this age group. This partnership meant a lot to the team, as they wanted to raise awareness of such an important issue while also contributing to the charity’s efforts.
To show their support, every player donated £10 to have the CALM logo printed on their home shirts. A portion of that money went directly to the charity, with the team raising over £300 for CALM in just a year. The club is proud of this achievement and continues to promote awareness for mental health through their involvement with CALM, showing that Stevenage United FC is about more than just football – it’s about making a difference.
But the journey doesn’t stop there for Stevenage United FC. The team is always looking to grow and continue supporting important causes. They’re now looking for sponsorship opportunities to help them reach new heights. Whether it’s local businesses or individuals wanting to make a difference, there’s a chance for everyone to get involved and support this incredible team. Sponsorship will allow them to keep improving, reach out to more players, and expand their charitable efforts.
If you’re interested in learning more about Stevenage United FC or would like to become a sponsor, you can reach out to Team Manager, Victor Ponnudurai. He’s always happy to hear from new players, supporters, and anyone who shares their passion for football, fitness, and giving back to the community.
Contact Information:
- Team Manager: Victor Ponnudurai
- Phone: 07428 535 423
- E-Mail: stevenageunitedfc@outlook.com
Stevenage United FC isn’t just a football team – it’s a community that’s making a real difference. Whether you’re looking to play, support a great cause, or sponsor an exciting local club, this team has something special to offer. Together, they’re showing that football is more than just a game – it’s a way to change lives for the better.
