A DELIGHTED pensioner who has always dreamed of playing football professionally was given the chance to enjoy a kickabout with Colchester United stars.
Percy Corps, 70, often regales his carers at Colchester’s Colonia Court with stories of his trips to watch Southend United with his uncle and brother in his youth.
A self-proclaimed football fanatic, Percy has been a resident at the home for a year.
He has enjoyed many careers throughout his life, including gardening and pub work.
Thanks to the Active Essex partnership’s links with Colchester United, Percy was granted his wish to go pro – if only for an afternoon.
The club’s Football in the Community scheme told Colonia Court about their walking football session, designed for anyone with neurological or mobility issues.
The dementia-friendly sessions are held once a month at Shrub End Community Sports Centre.
Staff at the care home knew Percy would jump at the chance to play football alongside the professionals.
The players helped Percy dribble the ball across the pitch with his walking frame, weave his way through cones and score several goals.
“I had a fantastic day with the players at Colchester United,” he said.
“It has been a while since I last played football, but once I got going the memories came flooding back.
“I even managed to score a few goals - maybe they will consider me for their next signing.
“I want to say a huge thank you to the lads on the team and to my carers for helping to arrange the activity.”
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Jiji George, home manager at Colonia Court, said: “We were thrilled to arrange Percy’s football experience.
“We know how much the sport means to him and playing with Colchester United will have meant the absolute world.
“You can tell he had a blast just from the pictures, but you should have seen him go in real life.
“We’re always looking for unique experiences like this to help residents continue their hobbies into retirement, so we’re really grateful to Colchester United and Active Essex for making this happen.”
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