Breaking the silence surrounding baby loss, Angels United FC plan to use the power of sport to get people talking.

More than a football club, Angels United is a family, founded by a group of dads that all share one thing in common, the heartbreak of losing a child.

When Olly Monk and his wife Katie received the news that they were pregnant with twin girls, their world turned upside down, they couldn’t wait to carry their daughters into their home.

However, this dream turned into a nightmare after regular hospital visits, endless scans, and devastating news.

Olly’s daughter’s, Poppy and Dottie, were born sleeping on 13 October 2019. Since this moment, they have been incredibly loved.

Finding himself surrounded by thoughtful friends and family, Olly realised that often people didn’t know what to say to him. Learning that he wasn’t alone during his suffering, he met a group of dads who knew exactly what he was going through.

Angels United was formed in 2020. It began as a support group, allowing men to open up about their struggles whilst enjoying a game of football.

“It’s nice to be with people who get it, because we’ve all experienced similar heartbreak. We all understand that some days may feel normal, but then the smallest thing can remind you of what you went through, bringing memories flooding back.

“It’s great to have the support of the group and also help others when they need it.

“We talk about our daughters every day and I wear Poppy and Dottie’s names on the back of my shirt, these things are so important to us,” Olly explains.

Now, to mark the start of Baby Loss Awareness Week, Angels United are teaming up with Sands United Stockport FC to commemorate the occasion and hold a game of football.

The match is set to take place on October 9 at Seel Park with kick off at 10:45am. Entry is free and the tea bar will be open.

Olly and the team are inviting anyone who may be interested to come down and watch. If football isn’t usually your choice of activity, come and support a group of loving dads playing in memory of their children.

Taking place at the home of Mossley AFC, the game will include a minute silence and see all players proudly wearing their Angels United shirts.

Approaching the birthday of his twin girls, October is an incredibly emotional time for Olly, who hopes he can help others by sharing his story.

Angels United always offer a listening ear to anyone who may need it and always welcome new members to the team.

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