Our Ben

In December 2022, we lost a very special person who was close to us all, Coach Ben Hampton.

Kris Hatton:

“Believe it or not, this lad used to come up to my chest. But as you all know, he can eat! And before we knew it he turned into a 6ft 3 gentle giant with a heart of gold.

I started my journey with Ben back when he was a young, quiet but brave as you like goalkeeper. We spent many sessions together and Winston Churchill Sports Centre and Half Term camps at Ash Manor.

Now I’ve coached many kids, and quite a few move on but always remember their journey with me. But Ben on the other hand, I couldn’t get rid of.

He stayed with us all the way through to U16 and then made a decision to join our College for another 3 years. During this time we could see a drastic change from Boy to Man. He bought so much banter to the group and was brilliant for us in the sticks.

After the 3 years, I thought here we go, might not see him as much now as he will be off tackling the world. Oh no wait! He became a coach with us lol. But what a coach he was. The kids loved him to bits, the other coaches loved him to bits, I loved him to bits!

The journey that I went through with this very special human is one I will never forget. From keeper, to student, to coach and finally to friend.

Ben you have been in my life for a very long time but you will be in my memories forever. I love you and miss you mate.

I will see you again mate. But not yet.

Sleep well xxxxx”