372 Attend First Gravesham Inter-schools Wellbeing Trophy Final

The stage was set at Ebbsfleet United for final between Gravesend Grammar and Thamesview School on Sunday, April 14th. Following the Ebbsfleet women’s game against Aylesford, 372 fans from both schools gathered to witness an exhilarating match, culminating in a thrilling 2-0 victory for Gravesend Grammar. It was an unforgettable experience for the students to showcase their talents at the esteemed Kuflink Stadium, home of the National League team, Ebbsfleet United.

Peter Scutts, Director of the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund and organiser of the competition, expressed his enthusiasm: “We introduced the Elliott Holmes Memorial Trophy to encourage young people struggling with mental health issues to seek help by self-referring. Only 21% of our self-referrals are male, despite statistics showing they are more likely to take their own life. We need to explore different avenues to reach out to these young individuals. This initiative has proven to be an effective method of engaging with youth.”

Kerry Holmes, whose 19-year-old son Elliott tragically took his own life in June 2020, and Gemma Cayley-Smith, mother of Tristan, a 15-year-old Thamesview student who passed away in May 2023, offered inspiring words of encouragement to the players. Their presence underscored the profound impact of suicide on families and emphasised the importance of letting Gravesham’s youth know about the available local support. Before kick-off, a poignant one-minute silence honoured the memory of all young lives lost to suicide in Gravesham in recent times.

Ebbsfleet legend Jimmy Jackson, eager to support the cause, was on hand to present the trophy to Gravesend Grammar School. Medals for Thamesview School were awarded by Gemma Cayley-Smith, in memory of her son Tristan.

Mark Robinson, Director of Sport at Gravesend Grammar commented: “It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to play at such a great venue and we are delighted to be part of a fantastic cause.” and Callum Lane, Thamesview manager added: “The Thamesview team were honoured to play in front of Tristian’s family who inspired all of the lads with their incredible words prior to kick-off.”

Peter extended heartfelt gratitude to the four schools involved, to High Profile for the photography and to the club and its staff for their incredible support in making this event possible. Ebbsfleet United has pledged continued support for the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund in the upcoming season.