Otters hit road to Wembley in memory of much-loved Paul

They decided to embark on their very own Road To Wembley, with players and parents, along with coach Christian Justice, each covering a distance of 57 miles – the distance from Rustington Otters HQ to the home of football, Wembley Stadium - and for a cause close to their hearts.

Goalkeeper Mason Foster’s mum Hannah said: “After having our season cut short for a second season in a row, and missing out on a cup final last season because of the Covid crisis, the team are determined to put the disappointment behind them, remain active during the lockdown and raise some money for a worthy cause with their efforts.

“Between them they will cover a combined total of 1,300 miles as they walk, jog and run the 57 miles over the next few weeks on the Road to Wembley.

“The team are also undertaking this fundraising effort in memory of Paul Bridle. Paul was a parent of one of our players, Libby, and very sadly, he recently lost his heroic 18-month battle with cancer.

“Paul was a huge lover of football, volunteering countless hours coaching and managing teams at Rustington Otters. Paul was also a big supporter of the under-tens and was often on hand to offer his words of encouragement to all the players from the sidelines as they developed from under-sixes to under-tens.

“We hope people will donate anything they can to help inspire the team to reach their target as they brave all weathers for Cancer Research to aid in the fight against cancer.

“By the start of this week, the kids and parents have covered a fantastic 380 miles. We have now reached our initial fundraising target and gone on to smash £1000 but we hope to raise even more.”

See a picture special here.

The team, run by head coach Christian Justice and assistant Richard Foster, comprises Mason Foster, Archie White, Thomas Hunter, Owen Justice, Joshua Treagus, Jenson Aston, Jake Banbury, Logan Arnold, Leo Richardson, Ollie Wright and Libby Bridle.

The Foster family even did a run in fancy dress, raising a few laughs along the way.

Hannah added: “All the boys – and our one girl Libby – really deserve a big shout-out and a well done for all their fantastic efforts. They have been jogging, running, doing long walks, walking dogs, kicking balls around the park, practising goalkeeping – doing anything they can to put the miles in.”

To donate to the cause and see the latest total, click here