Plexal, the innovation company delivering startup programmes across the UK and providing state-of-the-art workspaces, leant its support to a leading male wellbeing awards event at the National Football Museum in Manchester on Saturday 1st June.
The MAN v FAT Awards brought together a community of likeminded men who have achieved outstanding results with their weight loss and wellbeing, as the nationwide weight loss programme celebrates ten years of supporting thousands of men of all ages.
And, recognising the community spirit that occurs throughout MAN v FAT’s 150+ locations across the UK, Plexal sponsored the Community Hero award, supporting the individuals who make the biggest contribution to the supportive network in MAN v FAT.
Plexal has collaborative working spaces in East London, Manchester and Cheltenham, which are designed to accommodate a variety of professionals, from startups and SMEs to freelancers and remote workers in a vibrant community-led environment. With private offices, hot desks and fixed desks available, they have everything businesses and individuals need to thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Andrew Roughan, CEO at Plexal, said: “Since Thrive Tribe joined us in Plexal Stratford, I’ve been a great admirer of the team’s mission to help people improve their lifestyles with healthy habits. They’re an example of how innovation comes in different packages and, in the collaborative spirit of what we stand for at Plexal, we’re happy to support the MAN v FAT Awards. Wellbeing is incredibly important to a large portion of the Plexal team, so we commend the MAN v FAT community for their hard work.”
Richard Crick, Head of MAN v FAT, added: “‘Having been based at Plexal sites over the last few years, it’s been great to see how passionate Plexal are in promoting wellbeing, collaboration and a community feel for their workspace tenants.
“It’s that shared passion for community that made us feel they’d be a great partner for the Community Hero Award.”
MAN v FAT, an FA-affiliated scheme, currently has nearly 8,500 players taking part in nearly 160 leagues across the UK. And it was MAN v FAT Yeovil player Aaron Knight who lifted the award, following his huge contribution to building a community in the south west that has led the way when it comes to fundraising and other social events.
Aaron (pictured above) said: “I can’t really put into words what this award means to me. The camaraderie and teamwork that we’ve created in Yeovil is second to none, and without the support of the guys in our league, I wouldn’t have been lucky enough to take home this award.
“It’s amazing to have something to show for the time and effort I’ve put into this and can’t thank MAN v FAT enough for what it’s done for me. Since joining I’ve grown in confidence and have become a better version of myself, making lifelong friends along the way. Helping and fundraising for the community is something I’m incredibly passionate about and I will be working hard to retain this title next year!”
The total amount of weight lost by MAN v FAT players in the UK currently stands at more than 670,000 pounds. It is aimed at men with a BMI of higher than 27.5.
Before matches, the players are weighed, which is followed by a 30-minute game of six-a-side, with extra goal bonuses awarded to teams based on the amount of weight players have lost. Players receive additional support including healthy meal recipe ideas and tips on general fitness.
The winner of this year’s awards were announced at a special ceremony at the National Football Museum in Manchester on Saturday, June 1st.
