Annual Meg Newton Memorial Football Match Brings Community Together
30 April 2026
On 29th May, Newcastle College hosted a charity football match to celebrate the life of former student Meg Newton.
Meg studied a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching and Fitness) course and alongside her main study programme, was a talented footballer and second team captain of the College’s Andy Griffin Football Academy (AGFA) ladies team.
Passionate about the sport, Meg dedicated her time outside of college to coaching at grassroots level and had ambitions to achieve her Level 1 Football Coaching qualification.
The annual memorial match saw both current and former AGFA students take to the pitch, with Meg’s family in attendance. After a nail-biting match, the game ended in a 3-2 victory for the current AGFA Ladies team. Raising funds in her memory, a raffle and bake sale also took place and spectators had the emotional opportunity to leave their memories of Meg on dedicated photo boards, a wonderful way for our college community to come together and remember her.
Speaking about the event, Todd Bailey, NSCG Curriculum Manager for Sport and Public Services, said: “The importance of keeping Meg’s memory alive is equally as important to us as helping raise awareness of what support is available for women and girls if they, or someone they know, is experiencing threats, violence or abuse. With each year, this event gets incredible support from Meg’s family & friends, NSCG staff, local services and our current learners. This continues to be part of the legacy that Meg leaves behind at NSCG.
The match raised over £2196, with all proceeds going towards funding a headstone for Meg’s memorial, ensuring her memory is honoured in a lasting and meaningful way.
