A football community hosted a charity football match for a beloved referee following his terminal cancer diagnosis.
Loved ones and team players came together to celebrate the life and legacy of Redditch referee and coach Mac McLaren, who is living with terminal cancer.
The Mac McLaren Testimonial Match took place on Friday, October 24, drawing friends, family, and players from across the area to pay tribute to a man who has dedicated decades to grassroots football.
The event was organised by Damien Perry, who first met Mac in 2012 after Mac approached him to join Golden Cross FC, the football team he was managing.
“Mac had just left the Royal Navy after 12 years serving in places like Bosnia and Afghanistan,” said Damien.
“He was a devoted husband to Lisa and a proud dad and grandad. From the moment he joined our team, his passion for football and people stood out.”
Mac went on to play and coach for several local clubs, including Redditch Borough, Red Lion, Inkberrow Ladies, Alvechurch, and Feckenham, and also refereed matches under the Worcestershire FA.
“He wasn’t just a coach,” Damien added.
“He inspired players, especially the younger ones, including his daughter, Kayleigh.”
After battling melanoma and basal cell carcinoma in 2023 and beating cancer twice, Mac received devastating news earlier this month that his treatment was no longer working.
In honour of his contribution, teams made up of former players and colleagues, Redditch Borough Coaches vs New Woodland Cottage FC, took to the pitch.
The match took place at Redditch Borough Football Club on Cherry Tree Walk.
Local business G.S.P Construction sponsored the team kits, while donations poured in through a GoFundMe page, which has already raised more than £2000.
“He has always shown a heart of gold," Damien said.
"He will be forever remembered by everyone he has ever worked with within football in and around Redditch.
“We wanted to show our support by inviting everyone to come along and give Mac the recognition he deserves.
“It was about celebrating his life, his service, and everything he’s done for local football.”
The match is set to become an annual event, with the newly created Mac McLaren Trophy played for each year in his honour.
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