Funders and brokers do battle (with an egg and spoon!)

Competitive spirit was alive and well as funders and brokers took part in the third annual Coach Core Foundation Sports Day, with the finance industry out in force for a day of nostalgic games.

Teams from United Trust Bank, Arkle, Close Brothers, Cambridge & Counties Bank, Propel Finance, The Leasing Foundation, Moorgate Broker Network, and Asset Finance Solutions (UK) Ltd lined up for a series of old-school events that included everything from frisbee throwing and skipping to the blindfolded egg and spoon race.

But before the games began, attendees were reminded of the real reason they had gathered: the life-changing work of the Coach Core Foundation. The audience heard moving accounts from young apprentices who shared their stories of transformation through the foundation’s unique sports coaching apprenticeship programme. Their courage and resilience set the tone for the day — a celebration of opportunity, teamwork, and perseverance.

Then came the competition. While the games were light-hearted, the drive to win was very real. Lending a touch of elite athleticism to the day were sports legends Jo Pavey, Heather Fisher, and Rory Gibbs, who not only supported the event but also offered words of encouragement to participants throughout.

Despite valiant efforts, the finance sector’s finest couldn’t quite make the podium. But spirits remained high during the post-event networking session, where tall tales of athletic prowess and next year’s training regimes were shared over refreshments.

“This event was a brilliant example of how we can come together, have fun, and support an incredibly worthwhile cause,” said Lee Simms, Managing Director at Asset Finance Solutions (UK) Ltd. “We may not have taken home medals, but we’ve certainly left with a renewed sense of camaraderie.”

The Coach Core Foundation, the Leasing Foundation’s chosen charity of the year, continues to create real opportunities for 16–24-year-olds facing systemic barriers to employment. Their sports coaching apprenticeships help build not only job skills but also confidence and purpose.

Running fundraising events throughout the year, including golf days, there are many ways to support the Coach Core Foundation. Visit their website for more information.