Former footballer makes triumphant return to old club

A Woking care home resident and ex-footballer scored big when he went back to his former club.

When the team at Care UK’s Kingsleigh, on Kingfield Road, learned that Dave Hogden fancied a return to his old stomping ground at Charlton Athletic FC’s The Valley, they set to work.

 

Dave grew up in Woolwich and began playing for Charlton when he was 16 as a centre forward. After four years, he decided to hang up his boots to pursue a career as an HGV Driver, though his love for The Addicks never faded. 

Knowing how much a return to his home ground would mean to Dave, the care home team reached out to the club to organise a special surprise.

Dave was given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, with full access to the changing rooms, pitch and the press room.

Making the experience truly unforgettable, he was given the opportunity to hold memorabilia and trophies he had watched his beloved team win. 

Dave said: “I had a brilliant time, my favourite part was going onto the pitch and into the changing rooms. It has changed so much!”

Dave hung his wish on the Kingsleigh care home Wishing Tree, a special Care UK initiative that enables residents to revisit old hobbies or try something new. Whether it’s a fish and chip supper, a skydive or watching a football match, no wish is too big or small for the home’s team to try to grant.

Kelly Kelleher, Home Manager at Kingsleigh, said: “Everyone at the care home knows how deep Dave’s passion for Charlton runs, so we made it our mission to give him the opportunity to return to his lifelong club. You could see the sense of pride he felt as he walked past the Charlton Athletic FC signs that covered the ground.  

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and ambitions, and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Dave had a fantastic time and hasn’t stopped talking about the day out since!  

“I want to say a massive thank you to Charlton Athletic and the team here who helped make Dave’s wish come true!” 

Kingsleigh has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilling lives. The home provides residential, respite and specialist dementia care, surrounded by beautiful gardens in a quiet residential area of Surrey. Within the home, residents have access to a cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.