PGMO x FSA: Xmas foodbanks & toy collections

Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) and the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) have joined forces this festive period to support fan-led foodbanks and toy collections – and our member groups have warmly welcomed the support from PGMO.

In the lead-up to Christmas, match officials donated food and toys at pop-up collections hosted at training camps before delivering them directly to supporter-led initiatives at six clubs across the country. 

Three drop-offs took place over the weekend at West Ham United, Cardiff City and Walsall, with another three scheduled at Everton, Newcastle United and Ipswich Town during the final round of matches before Christmas. 

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor, who supported the recent weekend delivery at the London Stadium, said: “Christmas is a time for everyone to come together and, as a group of match officials, we wanted to give back and support people over the festive period through the football family. Our game has the power to unite people in many ways and it’s a privilege for us as officials to play a small part in that.” 

Referee Isaac Searle, who delivered toys in support of the collection at Walsall on Saturday, added: “The toy collection at Walsall truly reflects the spirit of football. Supporter groups do amazing work all year round and making this donation on behalf of my colleagues across the game, helping bring some joy to families and children at Christmas, is something I’m honoured to be part of.” 

Walsall toy collection © Owen Russell

John Ratomski, founder of Irons Supporting Foodbanks, West Ham, said: “Our work is built on the strength of the football community. Seeing match officials arrive with donations reinforces that the whole game stands behind the people who rely on us.”

In Cardiff, where officials delivered items to the Cardiff City Supporters’ Trust Foodbank, Board member Phillip Nifield highlighted the partnership’s value: “These donations make a meaningful difference to families across the Rhondda Valleys and having match officials involved further strengthens the bond between football and our communities.” 

And at Walsall, Ray Dale, Saddler’s Trust Secretary, emphasised the importance of involving all parts of the football community: “Our toy collection brings a bit of cheer to children who might otherwise go without. Having match officials contribute shows what can be achieved when the football family pulls together.” 

PGMO and the FSA’s partnership has grown significantly in recent seasons with this initiative reflecting a shared commitment to continue improving relations between officials and fans, while supporting local communities. 

Jane Hughes, the FSA’s EFL Network manager, said: “Supporter-run foodbanks are rooted in their communities and this project shows football at its best – the game uniting to support those who need it most.”

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