Starring Soccer Aid role for Freddie

Eagle-eyed viewers of the Soccer Aid for UNICEF match on Sunday, 12 June may have spotted our very own Freddie Woodley-Shepherd (IRW) taking centre stage on the pitch. 

In 2006, Freddie’s family, together with singer Robbie Williams, helped to establish the event, which now takes place annually and has raised over £75 million for UNICEF to date.

Soccer Aid for UNICEF is the world’s biggest celebrity football match which sees an England team of celebrities and retired footballers take on their opponents, the Soccer Aid World XI FC.

Each year, the winner lifts the Freddy Shepherd Memorial Shield, which is named after Freddie’s Grandfather who passed away when he was just ten months old. 

On 12 June, Freddie was tasked with the important job of delivering the match ball for kick-off.

In front of a sold-out London Stadium crowd of 55,000 people, he climbed into a mini racing car and drove the ball perfectly to the centre circle. 

Freddie’s proud parents were waiting for him on the side line as he drove the car back from its spot. 

His Dad, Warwick Shepherd, said: “He was very brave and not at all fazed by the huge crowd. 

“Freddie had a fantastic day and loved meeting the celebrities and ex-footballers. His favourites were David Beckham and Mo Farah.”

Click below to watch Freddie carrying out his very important role. 

At this year’s event, Soccer Aid for UNICEF raised a record £15.6 million for the charity’s vital work giving children around the world the care-free, play-filled childhoods they deserve. You can still donate Soccer Aid for UNICEF by texting FORTY, THIRTY or TWENTY – to 70818, or go to www.socceraid.org.uk/donate.