Inspirational Denbigh Town player off to the World Cup!
Article: Denbigh Town FC
International recognition is on the way for a popular young footballer who has fought back inspirationally following a period of ill-health.
Denbigh Town Football Club are delighted to learn that defender Harry Lockley has been called up to play for England at this year’s inaugural Transplant World Cup.
The 22-year old had his season cut short last October following a kidney transplant and began his journey back to the pitch at the end of the campaign. Now, following some superb performances for Denbigh, he will head to the World Cup in September.
“I’m thrilled to be called up to play for England in the Transplant World Cup, especially after having a rough couple of years with my kidneys,” said Lockley.
“It’s been a tough journey but now to be back fit and ready for the Denbigh season along with going to play for England will top it all off for me.”
Harry is currently fundraising to make the journey possible and the club are encouraging everyone to donate if able to ensure that not only can Harry get to Italy, but would also be the first current Denbigh Town player to represent his country at a World Cup.
The World Transplant Games Federation announced that the first Transplant Football World Cup will be held 8 – 14 September in Cervia, Italy. The tournament is being staged by Associazione Italiana Cultura Sport (AICS).
For 40 years the WTGF has provided a unique opportunity for transplant recipients to participate in both the World Summer and Winter Transplant Games. Thousands of recipients from more than 70 countries have used these Games to benchmark their personal fitness and join the world’s greatest celebration of the gift of life.
Teams will compete in three preliminary rounds qualifying to a knockout semi-final and final round. Matches will be staged in accordance with FIFA rules with some modifications to safeguard the transplanted organs of the athletes.