Banbury United Women will benefit from a unique and inspiring initiative, as a Men’s Football Tournament is set to take place in partnership with Savills to raise vital funds for the women’s side of the club.

A Rare Show of Support in Football

This event stands out for a simple reason: it’s still uncommon to see men’s teams come together specifically to support the women’s game. That’s what makes this tournament so meaningful—not just for Banbury United Women, but for the wider football community.

The initiative highlights a growing recognition of the importance of investing in the women’s game and creating more opportunities for players at all levels.

The Story Behind the Tournament

The idea was sparked by Rob Stait of Savills, whose lifelong connection to football inspired him to give something back in a new and impactful way.

Rob shared his journey:

“I’ve played football since I was three years old, catching the bug from the male members of my family. I started playing competitively at ten and continued well into my early thirties.

Football has given me so much over the years. I’m grateful for the lessons it taught me, the lifelong friendships it created, and the opportunities it provided. It helped shape my leadership skills, taught me the importance of teamwork, and gave me confidence and self-belief. I had the chance to trial for the Hampshire representative team, Combined Counties League opportunities, and play at some incredible places along the way — including Bisham Abbey, St Mary’s, Motspur Park and White Hart Lane.

Football has always been a part of who I am.

But until recently, I never really stopped to think about how different — and how much harder — that journey might have been if I’d been born a girl.

If I had, I doubt many of those opportunities would have existed. Even the interest in playing might have been questioned. Finding a team would likely have required more effort. Finding competitive matches against boys would have been harder. Even simply being included might have taken more determination.

Thankfully, the game has come a long way.

Seeing my older daughter play for her hometown and my niece represent Southampton has been brilliant. My son now plays as well, and at least once a season they face an all-girls team from an older age group — a great reflection of how much the game has grown.

At the professional level, women’s matches are now selling out major stadiums. The Lionesses have won two major tournaments, and young girls finally have the kind of representation that inspires them to believe they belong in the game. It’s incredibly important that this progress continues and that more girls not only start playing, but keep playing.

I’d like to thank Savills and our matchday sponsors for once again giving me the platform to support initiatives like this. The success of the previous two football tournaments, which raised money for inclusive community projects, has led to the opportunity to work with Natalie Brown and Banbury United FC.

Natalie is the only black female board director of a football club in the country, and I’m thrilled to collaborate with her for the benefit of building Banbury United’s women’s and girls’ teams. I’m incredibly proud to play a small part in giving something back to the female side of the beautiful game.”

Supporting the Future of Banbury United Women

Working alongside Banbury United F.C., this tournament is focused specifically on strengthening the women’s and girls’ pathway at the club.

It represents more than just a day of football—it’s a commitment to:
• Growing participation in the women’s game
• Providing better opportunities for female players
• Supporting long-term development at Banbury United Women

Get Involved

Teams, sponsors, and supporters are all invited to be part of this exciting event.

If you’re interested in:
• Entering a team
• Sponsoring the Men’s Tournament (9 May 2026)
• Or supporting the Women’s Tournament (10 May 2026)

Please get in touch via: natalie@banburyunitedfc.co.uk