Mark Smithies dropped five stone with MAN v FAT – now he helps others to do the same at our Woking club.
Meet Mark Smithies, from our Guildford club. Mark signed up with MAN v FAT in 2024, after realising that his weight was creeping up, and deciding he needed to make a change.
He explains: “For me, it was a build-up over time. I had been thinking for a while that I needed to do something about my weight and fitness, but it’s not always easy finding the motivation on your own.
“So when I came across MAN v FAT Football, it just clicked for me. Football, a bit of banter, and a bunch of lads all trying to improve themselves sounded right up my street. I wasn’t after perfection, but I wanted to start making small, positive changes to help work towards my goals.”
And work towards his goals he did, as Mark quickly found himself making progress towards his fitness targets. Not only did he start to see his physical health improve, he also started to see his mental health benefit. He continues: “Joining MAN v FAT Guildford has honestly made a huge difference for me, I’ve lost weight, I’ve got fitter, and made great mates along the way. I look forward to it each week and it has helped me stay active outside of football too.
“Mentally, it’s been a real boost. Being part of such a positive and supportive group does a lot for your confidence and mindset. It’s more than just football and lifestyle, it’s a proper community, and I’m proud to represent MAN v FAT Football Guildford.”
All of this was made possible by the supportive community at the Guildford MAN v FAT club. Mark credits the nature of the community for helping him to reach the targets that he was aiming for, saying: “What I love most about the club is the people.
“You turn up each week, play a game, have some laughs, and before you know it, you’ve made some great mates who support you on your journey. Here at the Guildford club, there is such a good atmosphere every week.”
“Everyone’s up for a laugh, there’s no judgment, and you feel part of a team from day one. The support and encouragement from the lads, and even between teams, is brilliant. I’ve made friends for life here.”
Now, Mark has managed to lose more than 36 kilograms since joining MAN v FAT, and has stepped up to become the Assistant Coach of the Guildford club. In the role, he aims to help others, the way that the club helped him, and strives to be a part of driving the club forward.
Want to follow Mark’s example?
If you live in Surrey, we have funded spots available in our Guildford and Woking clubs, thanks to Surrey County Council and One You Surrey. To register, visit their club pages today!
