The 2026 MAN v FAT Awards are just around the corner and there are a host of MAN v FAT clubs crossing their fingers that this is the year that they lift some silverware.
Picking up an award can be a real boost to clubs as they take on their week to week weight loss and the winners for 2026 will be announced at Villa Park in May.
A year ago, MAN v FAT Guildford lifted the Community Club of the Year accolade and it’s been a positive year since for the Surrey club, which is funded by Surrey County Council.
We caught up with coach Sam Morgan for the latest from Guildford!
1) Guildford won an Award at last year’s MAN v FAT Awards, how have you built on that in the past twelve months?
Winning Community Club of the Year was just the beginning for Guildford. Many of the ideas we’d been working on were only just taking shape and over the past year we’ve finally been able to see them come to life.
Our Community Champion has been a huge part of that progress. He relaunched the 11s squad and introduced a midweek friendly night, giving players from all teams the chance to mix, build confidence, and improve their fitness in a relaxed environment. The response was so strong that we secured sponsorship and players have the opportunity to get branded tracksuits and kits when they get involved.
As fixtures grew, we strengthened our links with Woking and Aldershot MAN v FAT clubs, building a wider network and even more opportunities for the lads. The club is now at full capacity so we are preparing to expand into further teams, attendance is rising, and the energy around the place is better than ever.
Next up, we’re planning a 24‑hour charity football match which is something we’re aiming to launch by the end of summer.
2) What do you enjoy about coaching at the club and how important is the funded opportunity in getting guys onboarded?
By the time Friday evening arrives, I’m usually wiped out from a full‑on week at work but without fail, by 10pm I leave buzzing from the MAN v FAT atmosphere. Coaching here gives me a real sense of purpose. I feel every player’s journey with them: the pride when they hit the numbers they’ve worked for, and the frustration when a tough week gets in the way.
There’s nothing better than seeing long‑standing members suddenly hit a run of consistent success, or celebrating a new player reaching their first 5% milestone. I make sure the whole community knows about those wins because they motivate others to achieve the same.
The funded places are incredibly important. They give local men the chance to try the programme with no financial pressure, and once they experience the support, the camaraderie, and the results, most realise they don’t want to stop coming. Every funded player brings fresh energy to me, to their team, and to the club as a whole. That steady flow of new faces has been a massive part of our growth.
3) What kind of community have the lads built at Guildford and why should other people consider joining?
The community at Guildford is built on support, fun, and a completely judgement‑free environment. The standard of football is always impressive, but ability isn’t what matters. Men of all sizes, fitness levels, and experience are welcomed and valued.
Our captains set the tone, keeping their teams motivated through WhatsApp and celebrating every achievement, big or small. When someone hits a milestone, the whole club gets behind them. Players even receive FIFA‑style milestone cards, and each week teams nominate a Man of the Match from the opposition to recognise effort, improvement, or standout play.
While injuries can happen in any sport, the games here are played in the right spirit that is competitive but safe, with everyone on a similar journey and looking out for one another.
If you’re looking for a place to get fitter, make mates, and enjoy football again without judgement, Guildford MAN v FAT is exactly that kind of place.
Are you ready to get started?
Our MAN v FAT Guildford club is always looking for new men to get started. Sign up today to get yourself ready for the MAN v FAT experience!
