When Gladesville Sharks FC decided to replace all player kits for the 2026 season, we were left with a large collection of jerseys, shorts, socks and boots. The designs may have been changing, but the gear was still in great condition and had plenty more football left in it.
At the same time, local 10-year-old Kei was preparing for a very special trip to Kenya.
His original plan was simple: take his own outgrown football boots and uniforms and give them to children who shared his love of the game. Inspired by the words, “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then just feed one,” Kei decided to ask his community for help.
That is when our paths crossed.
The Sharks donated as much gear as Kei and his family could fit into their suitcases, including kilos of jerseys, shorts, socks and boots. Thanks to the generosity of the wider community, Kei’s collection grew to include 28 pairs of football boots, more than 80 uniforms and pairs of socks, six balls, shin pads, gloves, medals, trophies, books, first aid supplies and even chess sets. An incredible $3,000 was also raised through GoFundMe.
Kei has now returned from Kenya after fulfilling the goal that started it all.
In Kibera, he distributed Sharks uniforms and football equipment, joined the children for a match on a muddy and unfamiliar pitch, and later helped serve dinner to the players and coaches.
He also travelled to Malindi, where he met Metro United’s Under 14 and Under 17 teams. Around 30 boys train there every day after school, yet many play without boots or shin pads and previously shared just one ball. Kei joined an Under 14 training session and delivered three new balls, uniforms and other much-needed equipment.
Seeing Gladesville Sharks jerseys being worn with pride by children, youth players and adult teams on the other side of the world is something our club will never forget.
We are incredibly proud of Kei. One young person, one generous idea and a few suitcases brought an entire community together.
Thank you to Kei and his family, A-Goal, Agape, everyone who donated, and all those who helped turn surplus football gear into new opportunities, new friendships and unforgettable memories.
This is what community football is all about. 💙
