In 2020, Maureen volunteered at Welcome House, a center in Hull that supports asylum seekers. She noticed many young men staying in local hotels, awaiting their refugee status, who appeared anxious, isolated, and had limited English skills. When she asked what they needed, they expressed a desire to play football. Maureen provided a ball, and despite only having flip-flops, the men enthusiastically played in the park.
Determined to do more, Maureen contacted the Tigers Trust, which arranged free football sessions starting in May 2023. With guidance from Chris Johnson of the East Riding County Football Association (ERCFA) and a £500 grant from Barclays Sported, they formed a team named Acorn FC—after Anei Akon, a young Sudanese asylum seeker whose surname means "acorn." The team affiliated with the ERCFA, acquired equipment, and began training three times a week.
On November 19, 2023, Acorn FC played their first match at Hull University's 3G pitch, winning 10-2. The event united players from twelve nations, exemplifying the power of football to bring people together. Despite challenges like funding shortages and equipment needs, support from organizations such as the Tigers Trust and the St Vincent de Paul Society enabled the team to continue.
By January 2024, additional funding allowed the purchase of proper football boots and the formation of a second team. Collaborations with individuals like Tony Baker from Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd led to plans for regular fixtures and the establishment of a local mini football league. The journey of Acorn FC highlights the dedication of volunteers and the community in using sport to foster inclusion and provide hope for asylum seekers in Hull.
Maureen, a volunteer at Welcome House in Hull, noticed that many asylum seekers staying in local hotels were feeling isolated and anxious. Among them was Anei, a young asylum seeker from Sudan with strong leadership skills. When asked what they needed, the men said they wanted to play football.
Maureen took action, starting with a simple football. Despite having only flip-flops, the men enthusiastically played in the park. This small gesture soon turned into something much bigger.
Support from the Community
Maureen met with Kayleigh Jackson from the Tigers Trust, along with other volunteers and Anei. Kayleigh arranged for the Tigers Trust to donate 20 pairs of trainers and connected the group with Chris Johnson from the East Riding County Football Association (ERCFA).
Chris brought essential football equipment like balls, cones, and bibs and explained how they could form a proper team. Soon after, the team received a £500 grant from Barclays Sported, allowing them to buy football boots, a kit, and affiliate the team with ERCFA.
The team was named Acorn FC after Anei’s family name, Akon, which means "acorn." For Anei, the acorn symbolized a fresh start and the hope that something small could grow into something big.
Building the Team
With boots, kits, and a place to train, Acorn FC started practicing three times a week on a 5-a-side pitch provided by a local charity. On November 19, 2023, the team played their first match at Hull University, with transportation funded by the St Vincent de Paul Society. The event brought together players from 12 countries, and Acorn FC won 10-2, despite it being their first time on an 11-a-side pitch.
This match showcased the uniting power of football, with everyone feeling immense pride. However, challenges soon followed—players needed shin pads, and funds had run out. With help from Kayleigh and the Tigers Trust, they received the shin pads needed to continue playing.
Overcoming Challenges and Growing
In January 2024, Anei and Maureen secured more funding through a grant from the Marist Fathers, which provided money for essentials like boots, a ground to play on, and referees. By January 22, 25 pairs of boots and 22 base tops were purchased, fulfilling Maureen’s promise to the players.
A second football kit was donated by the Tigers Trust, and the growing interest led to the formation of two teams: Acorn FC Blue and Acorn FC Green.
Plans for the Future
Tony Baker from Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd partnered with the team to organize regular matches and work on forming new teams. Together with Anei, now managing and organizing over 80 young players, Tony is planning to establish a local mini-league. This league will allow Acorn FC and similar teams to play friendly matches, as they’re not allowed to join established leagues.
A Growing Legacy
Acorn FC’s story is a testament to the dedication of Maureen and everyone who supported her. From one football and a promise to a thriving team, the “small acorn” is now growing into a “giant oak tree.” The team continues to need funding to keep the dream alive, but its future is bright, thanks to the power of community and perseverance.
