Men and Their Emotions (M.A.T.E) charity is proud to announce a high-profile celebrity football match on Sunday, 3 May 2026, at Swindon Town FC‘s County Ground. This exciting event will unite well-known personalities and former professional footballers in a thrilling showdown to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s mental health.
Founded by comedian and actor Daniel O’Reilly (aka Dapper Laughs), M.A.T.E was born from his own journey of overcoming severe drug addiction and suicidal thoughts. Now three years sober, Daniel has become a passionate advocate for men’s mental health. The charity is actively saving lives by breaking down the stigma surrounding men opening up about their feelings and seeking help.
The event was inspired by local organiser Gary Read, who approached Daniel and M.A.T.E following the tragic suicide of Swindon resident Steve Bailey. Steve was an ordinary working family man quietly battling mental health issues, and his loss left his family without a husband and father.
The match will feature Team M.A.T.E vs Team Harvey, supported by a lineup of celebrities and influencers dedicated to challenging the stigma around men’s emotions and mental health.
Confirmed players for Team M.A.T.E include:
Matt Lapinskas – Actor, former EastEnders & Dancing on Ice star.
Joe Cordina – Professional boxer, 2X IBF World champion, 2016 Olympian.
Cole Anderson – Social media influencer who recently appeared on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins
Mashtag Brady – Social media influencer
Tom Zanetti – Chart-topping musician
Gaz Beadle – Geordie Shore star & television personality.
Daniel O’Reilly (Dapper Laughs) – Touring comedian, actor, and founder of the M.A.T.E charity
Chart-topping singer and television personality Olly Murs will be attending the event, with many more big names to be announced.
Team Harvey is captained by MC Harvey of So Solid Crew and includes an exciting lineup of former professional footballers, including Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock, Jamie O’Hara, Dean Windass, and Leon Britton, with further big names to be announced.
The event promises high-energy football, celebrity entertainment, and a powerful opportunity for fans to support a life-saving cause.
Organised in partnership with Swindon Town FC, the match honours the memory of Steve Bailey and all those lost to mental health struggles.
As a registered men’s mental health charity, M.A.T.E provides a safe, non-judgmental space through its large online community (now with over 64,000 members on Facebook) and peer-to-peer support. Men can share experiences, seek guidance, and help reduce the tragically high rates of male suicide.
Funds raised from ticket sales, donations, and related activities will directly support the charity’s mission, including providing free counselling, dry housing, and essential support for men in need.
Daniel O’Reilly said: “This match is about more than football—it’s about showing men that it’s okay to talk, to feel, and to ask for help. We’re bringing big names and big energy to Swindon to save lives and smash the stigma.”
Event organiser Gary Read added: “After losing a close friend to suicide, I’ve seen first-hand how vital groups like M.A.T.E are. Teaming up with Swindon Town and these incredible celebrities will help us reach more men and make a real difference.”
*Team lineups may be subject to change on the day.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 3 May 2026
Venue: The County Ground, Swindon Town FC
Kick-off: 13:00
Tickets: Available now : https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Swindon/The-County-Ground-Swindon-In-Swindon/Celebrity-Charity-football-match/41997339/
For more information, to donate, or to stay updated on team announcements and ticket releases, visit the official M.A.T.E website at www.menandtheiremotions.org.uk or follow @menandtheiremotionscharity on Instagram.
Karen Woodham is the founder and owner of the Blazing Minds. She is also a Cinema reviewer and works with RealD 3D reviewing the latest 3D releases and IMAX, she has also had several articles published in various publications including the first edition of SFW Magazine. In 2015 she became an Award Winning Blogger and also has her website listed as one of the UK’s Top 10 Film Blogs.