Inside the Prostate United Boardroom: Football comes together to save men's lives

Former managers Sam Allardyce, Chris Hughton and Mick Harford joined football leaders, campaign supporters and media personalities in London in September to celebrate the launch of Prostate United 2026 and demonstrate the power of football to help save men's lives.

The trio were among a host of football voices attending the Prostate United Boardroom event, supported by TENA Men, where guests came together ahead of this year's challenge.

The event brought to life what Prostate United has become since launching in 2018: a football community united behind one common goal. From fans and players to coaches, physios, kit staff, chief executives and club legends, people from every corner of the game are coming together to tackle prostate cancer.

Hosted by broadcaster Steve Rider, the evening began with Prostate United founders Stephen Gilpin and Ross Burbeary sharing how a fundraising idea born from their connection to football has grown into a movement that has raised more than £1.5 million for Prostate Cancer UK.

Guests then heard from a panel featuring Sam Allardyce, Chris Hughton and FA Director Andy Ambler, who discussed football's ability to drive change beyond the pitch and the role the game can play in raising awareness of prostate cancer.

For Hughton, who was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer last year, the campaign has particular significance. Speaking at the event, he reflected on the support he received from across football after sharing his diagnosis and stressed the importance of helping more men understand their risk and seek early diagnosis.

Hughton said: "My life changed when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year. But my story is ultimately a positive one. I’ve been humbled at the kind messages from within the football community since speaking out, and among the messages I’m passing on is that this is a treatable disease if caught early. I’m pragmatic by nature but my aim now is to educate and help people and ultimately change the game for men – and football is the perfect platform to do that.”

Harford, who was also diagnosed with prostate cancer, spoke passionately about the role football can play in encouraging conversations around men's health. Drawing on his own experience and the support he received from the football community, he highlighted why awareness and early detection remain so important.

Allardyce praised the unique ability of football to bring people together, describing Prostate United as a club that unites supporters, clubs and communities behind a cause bigger than the game itself.

Their stories were a powerful reminder that while football is built on rivalry, prostate cancer affects every club, every league and every level of the game.

As preparations continue for October's challenge, more clubs, supporters and football personalities are expected to pull on the Prostate United shirt and join a squad determined to make a difference.

Join Prostate United this October and help change the game for men.