Lipson Co-operative Academy teachers laced up their football boots this term for a fiercely fun charity match to raise awareness for testicular cancer.

In front of a sun-soaked crowd of several hundred students, two staff teams, Brook’s Brawlers and Boyes’ Beasts, took to the school’s new 3G pitch, proudly sporting the iconic orange underpants of the It’s in the Bag charity over their shorts.

After a thrilling contest filled with goals, drama, and no shortage of laughs, it was Brook’s Brawlers, led by Headteacher Martin Brook, who edged the tie 6-4 over Deputy Head Paul Boyes’ team.

Scorers for the Brawlers included Craig Swiggs, Katy Geraghty, Kevin Mee, Arran Webb, and Martin Brook himself, while the Beasts replied with goals from Joe Lincoln, Tyler Joint, and Tom Marks.

Thanks to the hard work of Lipson Sixth Formers Lillie, Sienna, and others, the event raised £175.84 on the day, with even more donations expected. But beyond the fundraising total, the day succeeded in its wider goal: raising awareness of testicular cancer among young people and reinforcing the importance of regular self-checks.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 25–45, but it can affect younger and older men too. The message from It’s in the Bag is clear: check once a month, act fast, save lives. For more information on how to check yourself and support the charity, visit www.itsinthebag.org.uk

At Lipson Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, alongside academic excellence, the welfare and well-being of students and staff is central to their culture. The school has traditionally been part of the co-operative movement and their core values such as democracy, self-help, equality and social responsibility still very much influence Lipson’s way of working.

 Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said:

"It was an honour to lead the Brawlers, but this match wasn’t really about the scoreline, it was about community, kindness, and courage. I’m so proud of our students for organising this and even prouder of the conversations this event has sparked.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

"This is exactly the sort of thing we are so proud to see our schools doing, focusing not just academic success, but also raising awareness, making a difference, and coming together to support important causes. Huge credit to the Lipson staff, students, and community for their creativity and compassion."