Home From Home

Hayden Allen, England

Goal Click, Southampton, and Utilita have created a new storytelling series, telling the inside story of the Football Rebooted campaign to rehome at least 1 million pairs of quality football boots across the UK - all through the eyes and voices of the individuals and communities contributing and benefiting from the campaign. Hayden Allen is a young player and Southampton FC season ticket holder.

What has your football journey been up until now?

My name is Hayden Allen, and I am 14 years old. I am from Southampton and have been a Southampton FC season ticket holder for the last 7 years.

I started playing for a Sunday football team from the age of 10, but due to several foot injuries, I made the decision not to play anymore. I do however play for my school football team, and we recently played in the Hampshire Schools Cup final. We lost 5-4 on penalties, although I did not play as I broke my ankle playing in the quarter finals. Unfortunately, I was wearing the boots I was given from the Football Rebooted campaign, and they had to be cut off my foot at the hospital!

There are lots of local teams that I like to go and watch, and they encourage people in the local area to come and support. 

What did you try to capture with your photos? Was there a wider meaning with the photos? 

I took photos at home and away matches of Southampton FC, as well as my school football team and when playing football with my friends.

I tried to capture people coming together and enjoying the game and show how football can give enjoyment to people of all ages. 

The Southampton FC players always come over and clap for the fans - it shows their appreciation.

What impact has Football Rebooted had on you and your community? How did you hear about Football Rebooted?

I heard about Football Rebooted from the Saints Foundation, who I have been working with at school. I think it is a really good campaign, as football boots are really expensive, and some people cannot afford to buy them. Being able to donate and recycle boots is a really good idea.

What does Southampton FC mean to you?

Being a Southampton FC supporter is like having another larger family. When I go to games, we always sit with other season ticket holders, so we see the same people regularly and get to know them. I went to the recent Southampton FC Under 18's final, and the support was brilliant.

What do you do to be more environmentally friendly? Is there anything you think football players and fans can do to be more environmentally sustainable? 

I used to buy bottles of drinks at Southampton matches but have now swapped to taking my own bottle. A lot of litter is left after the match, and I think people need to be more aware of the environment. We also travel to the matches either by public transport or by parking further away and walking to the stadium. 

Southampton FC recently held an environmental match day where they put on park and ride coaches for supporters to reduce the pollution and traffic into the city centre. I think it would be a really good idea if this was put on for all matches for fans.

Series edited by Emma Walley.