UCFB Hike for Owen: Football team to hike Mam Tor raising funds for Parents Association of Children with Tumours

Members of the UCFB Men’s First Football Team will be completing a Peak District hike to raise money for a cause which personally impacts the team captain’s family.

The team captain, Will Jenkinson, has a brother Owen, who was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma — a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer — in 2022. Since then, Owen has faced his illness with incredible courage, resilience, and dignity.

The team are joining Will for the hike of Mam Tor, aiming to raise £1,000 for PACT (Parents Association of Children with Tumours).

You can read more and donate via the JustGiving page to help the squad reach their goal.

Here’s what they said on the JustGiving page.

“After enduring 18 rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of daily radiotherapy, Owen was given the all-clear in early 2023. He spent the year that followed doing what he loves most — living life to the full, making memories, and embracing every moment with his trademark smile and spirit.

“However, in early 2024, the family received the devastating news that Owen’s cancer had returned. Since then, he’s undergone further intensive treatment, including oral chemotherapy, a trial in Newcastle, and high-dose therapies — all in the hope of slowing the disease. Though these treatments haven’t had the desired effect, Owen has continued to show a level of strength and positivity that is nothing short of extraordinary.

“Throughout Owen’s journey, PACT has been a constant source of support — not just for him, but for the entire Jenkinson family. From thoughtful care packages and hot meals in hospital, to special days out, family staycations, and even a house in Sheffield for families receiving treatment, PACT provides the kind of compassionate, practical help that makes all the difference when families are facing their toughest days.

“This October, Owen’s sister Ciara and the incredible #TeamJenko are once again running, walking, and wheeling 5–10k every single day to raise money for PACT. Last year, they raised over £29,000 and inspired hundreds to get involved — all in honour of Owen and the many families like theirs that PACT supports.

“We want to do our part. As Will’s teammates, and as people who’ve been moved by Owen’s story, we’re proud to hike Mam Tor in solidarity — to raise funds, awareness, and support for a charity that has given so much.

“Owen is someone who refuses to be defined by cancer. He continues to face every day with a fierce love for life and an infectious positivity. It’s for that strength — for his smile, his fight, and his courage — that we walk.

“How You Can Help: We’re asking you to donate whatever you can — whether it’s the price of your morning coffee or something more — to support PACT in their vital work. Every donation helps bring light, comfort, and support to families facing childhood cancer.

“Thank you for standing with us, with Owen, and with PACT. Let’s climb this mountain together — literally and figuratively.”