What happens when rugby lads and football lads stand side by side? Something powerful.
Article by Francesca Johnson-Harding.
Whether it’s rugby or football, sport has always been about having each other’s backs. That’s why a group of young lads from Gateshead Rugby Club have come together with their footballing mates at Stockton City — a charity football team — alongside County Durham men’s mental health hub Checkmate. Together, they’re opening the door a little wider for men who need sport, connection, and someone to talk to.
On 15th February, they’ll be walking 14 miles from Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby and back, inviting friends, families, teammates, and members of the public to join them. The aim is simple: make this about people, not pitches.
A Walk Born from Loss
This all began with the loss of a young man called Matthew Barton. Known as Barton to his mates, Matthew tragically took his own life just before Christmas. In response, his friends Harry McCabe, Harry Harding, and his cousin Jack McCabe came together to ensure his life was remembered — and that something positive could grow from the heartbreak.
Harry McCabe spoke about his friend:
“We never imagined we would be writing something like this, but tragically our community has lost a young life to suicide. We didn’t just lose a friend — a mother lost her son, a sister lost her brother, a partner lost the love of her life, and a baby boy lost his daddy. More than anything, he was a family man.
He was a massive Newcastle United fan, but really, he loved the game in all its forms — watching Middlesbrough matches, following non-league football, and spending countless hours with games on the TV. Football, and sport in general (rugby, golf, pool and more), was never just about competition for him. It was about time spent with friends, shared conversations, and moments that mattered.
He is deeply missed — not only by those who knew and loved him, but by the wider community that has come together to offer condolences and support during this heartbreaking time. This community has united to do this for him, and for everyone who is struggling with their mental health.”
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young men in the UK. Too many lads struggle quietly. This walk is about changing that — together.
Rugby and Football, Side by Side
Football and rugby have always had their differences: different cultures, different environments, different rivalries. But at their core, both sports are built on the same foundations: teamwork, loyalty, community, and looking after your own.
Whether it’s a muddy pitch on a Sunday morning or a packed stadium on a Saturday afternoon, both sports create belonging. And that sense of belonging is exactly what so many men need. Seeing those two worlds come together has been incredibly powerful.
Harry Harding said:
“It’s not about one person, even though this started with Barton. It’s about making sure that men are connected and supported on and off the pitch. It’s checking in with that one person if they just don’t seem okay and letting them know men have a space to talk, share, and be heard.
Gateshead Rugby Club is such an inclusive place, and these lads have each other’s backs on and off the pitch — but that’s where football and rugby are the same, as I have seen that with the lads from Stockton City.
When the days are dark, it’s hard to see your way out or know who to turn to. We have our sport, but when you don’t have that, where do you go? Checkmate links to so many sports and gives men in the Northeast ways to find their people and know where to turn.”
Checkmate: Building Connection Through Sport
Checkmate does incredible work bringing men together through sport and social connection. They run five-a-side football, padel tournaments, pool nights, golf days, running and walking clubs — and they’re only just getting started.
Harry McCabe said:
“I’ve been to a couple of their sessions recently, and what really stands out is how normal it all is. Just lads of different ages and backgrounds exercising, releasing endorphins, having a laugh, and — if they feel comfortable — talking. No pressure. No judgement. Just genuine support.”
Looking ahead, Checkmate has big plans: expanding activities, reaching more men, and creating a permanent hub where lads can train, socialise, eat together, and simply switch off in a safe environment. The aim is simple — make connection, movement, and community part of everyday life, and in doing so, help break the stigma around men’s mental health through action, not just words.
A Walk for Connection, Remembrance, and Support
That’s why they are doing this sponsored walk. Everyone is welcome on 15th February. Support will be in place at Whitby for anyone who can’t complete the full distance, including cars or public transport back to Robin Hood’s Bay. No one gets left behind.
A time to walk.
A time to remember a friend.
A time to talk.
All funds raised go to Checkmate – Men’s Mental Health Hub: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/harry-mccabe
This is for Barton.
This is for those who are struggling.
And this is for every lad who needs to know they are not alone.
