Since our chaplain, Revd John Boyers, got involved with Manchester United in September 1992, I have become more and more aware of SCORE and its work. I am glad to see its influence extending across the UK and to a wider range of sports- especially to Scottish Football and to Horse Racing! Chaplains can be of help to all sorts of people involved with sport, when crisis, need, or difficulty comes. I commend the idea of sports chaplaincy and the work of SCORE to you.
Sir Alex Ferguson, CBE, Manager, Manchester United.
There was considerable gratitude expressed for the work done by SCORE in provision of chaplaincy throughout the Commonwealth Games. People were impressed by the quality of the team involved, the breadth of provision.... So thank you SCORE for a massive contribution to the games.
Revd Christopher Mayfield, (When Bishop of Manchester 2002)
There is no doubt that our club chaplain, Malcolm Lorrimer, has performed a very valuable service at the club. For players, he almost acts as a mentor. With the rest of the staff, he has offered real support for those who have suffered bereavement or just need someone to talk to. In todays helter-skelter world, a voice of calmness can be inspiring and invigorating.
Jim Cumbes, Chief Executive/ Secretary, Lancashire County Cricket Club
The chaplain has a fundamental place, along with others, in providing care and support for all who work in racing.
Brigadier Cedric Burton, CEO, Racing Welfare.
Our chaplain Rev. Graham Locking is doing a tremendous job within our industry. Not only does he help stable staff, he gives support to individuals in every branch of racing.
Mark Tompkins, Trainer and Chair of Newmarket Trainers Federation
Our experience of chaplaincy at Bolton Wanderers has been uplifting...it has added a new and extremely important dimension to management and welfare...[but] is not something that can be provided by every clergy person. It is essential that any club... ensures that the right clergy are involved. SCORE can add significant value to chaplaincy and possibly promote it, by helping organisations to select clergy who are suitable for the role.
Allan Duckworth, Chief Executive, Bolton Wanderers F.C
We have numerous examples of the chaplains work, which demonstrate the difference he has made to club life. Key to the chaplains appointment and the development of his role, has been the support he received from SCORE personnel.
John Bowler, Chairman, Crewe Alexandra F.C
Chaplaincy gives a whole other dimension to our club. It brings a personal touch - people feel like they can be listened to as individuals. If chaplaincy was established in every club, I think it would be of huge benefit to the game as a whole.
Ian McGeechan, Head Coach British Lions 2009
Increasingly those involved in sport recognise the need for pastoral and spiritual care. SCORE chaplains address that need - and at the same time build links between local church and community. Chaplains bring a practical demonstration of Gods love into the clubs. This kingdom work deserves support from across the whole church.
Bishop Pete Broadbent, Bishop of Willesden
We appointed a chaplain at Newcastle because we recognised that the newer generation of players could benefit from having someone in this role - to support them, befriend them, and help them keep a sense of perspective. With the high intensity of the professional game I would commend the development of chaplaincy throughout rugby.
Rob Andrew, Director of Elite Rugby, RFU
The PRA welcomes the growing number of chaplains in the game as complementing its own player welfare work. This new role will help develop that partnership, and it is a significant addition to the ongoing player support and will benefit all involved in Rugby Union.
Damian Hopley, Chief Executive, Professional Rugby Players Association
Professional rugby can be a pressured world, and in my experience, particularly while at Wasps, chaplains can really help. They provide an independent ear, and are a good place to get confidential counsel and advice. It is an important role.
Matt Dawson, England & British Lions
I am delighted to endorse SCORE and their increasing involvement in sport. At Swansea we have had a SCORE chaplain for 4 years and would firmly recommend such a relationship to any team environment. It has been great to have a confidential friend of the club on board.
Tony Clement, Team Manager Wales U20, & Former Head Coach Swansea RFC
The involvement of SCORE with Ulster Rugby has been significant.
Michael Reid, Chief Executive, Ulster Rugby
Chaplaincy is integral to the life and work of London Wasps. Professional sport brings many pressures both on and off the pitch. Both players and staff at London Wasps have benefitted from the personal pastoral & spiritual support provided, and we happily commend it to others.
Tony Copsey, CEO London Wasps