In Birmingham, a football club stands apart—not for their trophies, but for their extraordinary story. Birmingham Transplant Football Club comprises 30 players who share a life-saving bond: each has undergone an organ or stem cell transplant, giving them a second chance at life.
Founded in 2024, every team member owes their life to a generous donor and the expert care at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Beyond the pitch, their mission is clear: to showcase the success of transplantation, not through words or lectures, but through the beautiful game of football.
Rich Smith, a veteran transplant athlete with 30 years of experience in transplant sports, explains: “We don’t just play football; we tell a story. Our matches show people that organ donation works. After a transplant, it’s not about mere survival—it’s about thriving.”
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This spirit drives them to compete at the highest level. Birmingham Transplant FC has proudly won the British Transplant Games football tournament twice and boasts players who have represented England in the Transplant Football World Cup and European Transplant Football Cup.
Among them is a 17-year-old who received a liver transplant at age two—now running on the pitch with the vitality of any teenager. The team’s first female player, a heart transplant recipient and accomplished athlete, further symbolizes their inclusive and inspiring spirit.
Rich’s own journey began in 1993 with a transplant at age 25. Encouraged by his doctor to live life fully, he has since embraced marriage, fatherhood, and a vibrant sporting life. For many players, the club has helped conquer the fear of never playing again. Jon Bailey, who had a liver transplant in 2021, shares, “One of my biggest dreams was to play football again.” Rowan Caney, a former Aston Villa Youth Team player who had a bone marrow transplant at 18, praises the club as “brilliant” for giving him a place to continue his love for the sport.
Beyond physical health, the club fosters strong mental and emotional support. “There’s a very close bond between us,” Rich says. Some players even shed extra weight to meet the demands of competition, motivated by the camaraderie and challenge.
Birmingham Transplant Football Club welcomes players of all ages and genders. Training sessions take place on the second Thursday of every month at Alexander Stadium, a place where life is celebrated every time they step onto the field.