A KIND Redditch boy is breaking with tradition and using his birthday to give something back to others.
Nine year-old Kenzie McKeon from Batchley decided that this year he wanted to spend his birthday not only playing football with his friends, but raising money for children’s charity Barnardo’s too.
Kenzie, who plays for Redditch junior team Mayfly Tigers U10s, has helped organise two floodlit matches at the Valley Stadium to take place next Saturday (January 28) and all money raised will go to Barnardo’s.
Mum Lindsey West said: “Kenzie has always been quite aware of why it’s important to think of others and give to charity because we donate food hampers every Christmas and always give unwanted toys and clothing to charity too, but I must admit, I was quite shocked when he told us he wanted to give his birthday presents to charity and have a fundraiser instead of a birthday party.
“He said he wanted to “raise money for children who don’t have a mum and dad, or who are outside in the cold, and who don’t have hugs in the morning.” I was quite taken aback, but I am very proud of him.”
Manager of the Mayfly Tigers, Mark Anthony stepped in and pulled together the parents of the other youngsters in the Mayfly teams to help organise the event, and it is hoped plenty of people will come along to cheer them on.
The youngsters will also all be playing in fancy dress – with colourful wigs and tutus to make the match a real spectacle.
Tickets for Kenzie’s Birthday Games – consisting of two football matches as well as live music – cost just £3.
The first match, kicking off at 6.30pm, will see the U10’s Mayfly Tigers play U10’s Redditch United for the Sean Holmes Memorial Cup. The second match, kicking off at 7.30pm will see the U11’s Mayfly Tigers play the U11’s Studley Bees for the Billy Ferris Memorial Cup.
There will then be live music from the UK Feds and refreshments in the Reds Bar to round off the celebrations. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/357534144603268/ to find out more.
