A youth football tournament, honouring the memory and legacy of former SPC staff member Mark Waddington, who sadly passed away in 2022, came to fruition across the globe in Africa in July.
The Play4Mark Tournament was held on 18 July near Nairobi and organised by an incredible young woman, Eve Radol.
Mark and his wife Jacinta first met Eve during a trip to Africa, and they were impressed with the young woman’s determination to make life better for African girls growing up in the second largest slum in Africa, Kiberra, through sport.
In the ultimate tribute and with the support of Mark’s family, Eve organised the Play4Mark Tournament, which聽aimed to bring together over 100 young players from different informal settlements to play, connect and celebrate the values Mark stood for – kindness, generosity and love for the game.
Prior to the tournament, Eve said “the aim is not just competition, but to create a positive and supportive environment where young people feel seen, encouraged and inspired, just as Mark made me feel”.
The tournament went ahead and was a great success, with a special ‘Play4Mark Spirit Award’ recognising a player who best demonstrates teamwork, respect and kindness.
It was an extraordinary gift from Eve, who, by the time of the tournament, was also planning her mother’s funeral after caring for her over the past five years.
To those who knew Mark, he left an indelible mark on the world and was awarded the College’s Facere et Docere award in 2022, before sadly passing away after a brave fight with cancer.
We thank Eve and Jacinta for sending us this video and photos from the Play4Mark Tournament, honouring Mark, who those who knew him will remember as a truly great man.
