AFC Totton
Today’s match brought together two university teams, teammates, friends, and competitors, but above all, everyone came together in memory of a young man who should still have been standing on that pitch with them.
Henry Nowak was just 18 years old. A first-year student at the University of Southampton, a teammate, a friend, a son. He was described by those who knew him as funny, kind and incredibly talented. On the 3rd of December, Henry’s life was tragically taken far too soon, leaving an unimaginable void in the lives of his family, his friends and the wider university community.
Football was part of who Henry was. He proudly represented both Villarrealgorithm CF and Southampton University Football Club. That day, those clubs came together not just to compete, but to honour him.
The match also supported 2wish Cymru, a charity that provides immediate and ongoing bereavement support to families affected by the sudden death of a child or young adult. They had been there for Henry’s family in their darkest hour, and the funds raised ensured they could continue supporting others facing unimaginable loss.
The fundraising efforts were incredible, over £9,000 had been raised at the time of the match, a testament to the impact Henry had on so many lives.
They played with passion.
They played with respect.
And they played in memory of Henry.
Everyone joined together in a moment of silence to remember Henry Nowak.
Southampton University went on to win 5–1, and the fundraising total has now surpassed £40,000, an extraordinary achievement and a fitting tribute.
Henry was honoured in the best way everyone knew how, through football.
