What starts as a game of football can sometimes become something far more powerful.
For Chris Cowcher and the “Crocs”, a weekly six-a-side football match has grown into a friendship built on support, connection and looking out for one another. Now, they’re taking that same team spirit beyond the football pitch and into the Peak District, raising vital funds for Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind along the way.
On 4 July, Chris, alongside Matt, Nick, Chris, Dan and Rob, took on the Edale Skyline – a demanding 24-mile circular route through the Peak District. Their challenge wasn’t just about testing their physical endurance; it was about shining a light on the importance of men’s mental health and helping ensure that more people can access the support they need.
More than just football, raising an incredible £1062.50
The Crocs first came together during the uncertain months between the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2021. What began as a chance to kick a football around every Wednesday evening soon became something much more meaningful.
With members ranging from their 20s to their 40s, the group has become a place where everyone can leave the pressures of work, family life and everyday challenges at the side of the pitch.
For Chris and the team, football isn’t simply about the scoreline. It’s about belonging, friendship and having people around you who notice when you’re not quite yourself.
Why they chose CWW Mind
The group chose to support Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind because they understand that mental health can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
Chris explains that the Crocs are fortunate to have one another, but many people don’t have that same sense of connection.
By fundraising through this challenge, they’re helping ensure that local people who may be struggling, feeling isolated or overwhelmed know that support is available when they need it most.
Thank you
A huge thank you to Chris, Matt, Nick, Chris, Dan and Rob for choosing to support Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind.
Your commitment, generosity and willingness to use your challenge to start conversations around mental health will have a lasting impact on people across our local communities.
We wish you all a huge congratulations on completing the Edale Skyline and thank everyone who donated to support your incredible fundraising efforts.
Together, we can ensure that nobody has to face a mental health problem alone. 💙
Could you take on your own fundraising challenge?
Inspired by Chris and the Crocs?
Whether it’s a hike, run, football tournament, bake sale, skydive, marathon or something completely unique, every fundraiser helps us continue providing vital mental health support across Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire.
No matter how big or small your idea, our fundraising team will be with you every step of the way, providing advice, resources and support to help make your challenge a success.
If you’ve been thinking about fundraising for a cause that makes a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with our Fundraising Team today and let’s work together to ensure that nobody has to face a mental health problem alone.
💙 Email: fundraising@cwwmind.org.uk
