In Sam’s Name is a talking group for men in North Nottinghamshire who have either been through, or are currently going through, a challenging time. It was founded in the memory of Sam “Sponge” Fisher who sadly passed away in October 2021.

Sam, Sponge or Mr Fisher as he was referred to amongst everyone was a cheeky, loveable character with a heart of gold. His passions were teaching, music, football and fashion. We would always greet you with “Alreyt Bod”.

On the outside Sam had a lust for life but unfortunately suffered mental health issues which had a major effect on his health and well-being.

In Sam’s Name encourages men to speak out and our group gives the chance for men to speak in confidence to one another and find strength and support amongst the group.

They have regular meetings in Worksop and Retford but have also begun to operate in Ollerton on a fortnightly basis and it is hoped that this new partnership with the football club will help promote their amazing work further and get more men in the local area talking.

In Sam’s Name have agreed to come on board as official training kit sponsor of the club, whilst the club have agreed to promote their work at games, across social media and in the match day programme. The club will also be working closely with In Sam’s Name across the season on different fundraising ideas.

Ollerton Town Football Club chairman Liam Kent expressed his delight at this new partnership saying; “I think it’s vitally important that groups like In Sam’s Name exist and I couldn’t be happier to be working with them moving forward.”

“Men’s mental health is such a huge issue, across the country, but sadly Ollerton has felt the effects of it too and hopefully by us working together, it can help men out there who maybe struggling.”

Explaining how the partnership came out, Kent added; “When I took over as Chairman, I felt it was important that the club give back to the local community. We always go out into the town, looking for sponsorship and things like that but it can’t be all take. Therefore I wanted to find a worthwhile cause for us to support which is when I found about In Sam’s Name.

“I contacted the guys and they were open to the idea and as the conversation developed, it evolved into this fantastic new partnership.

“I thank them for their support of the club and planning is already underway for how we can in-turn support them further and help them grow.”

In Sam’s Name added the following; “In Sam's Name is pleased to announce the partnership between ourselves and Ollerton Town Football Club and to be able to impact the community in a positive manner with the safe space for males that In Sam's Name provides.

“As a group we want to break the stigma of males talking about their mental health and to prevent suicide. For more information about our peer support meetings contact info@insamsname.co.uk.”

Finally, Councillor Lee Brazier, District Councillor for Ollerton, remarked; “Following the tragic loss of young men in our community, I reached out to In Sam's Name to see if they would support setting up a group here.

“To know that they are going to be in partnership with our wonderful Ollerton Town Football Club is brilliant and brings them to the forefront of our male community.

“I look forward to seeing this partnership grow and hopefully having In Sam's Name as a focal point will get people talking.”