Philip Cain's Memorial Fund

Hello, I am Elisa Bragg, Philip Cain's sister. 
As you know Phil died very tragically on the 24th of October, 2016. It had come as a great shock to my family and all of our community and friends that such an extraordinary man who was such a lover of life and gave so much to youth and amateur football, amongst so many other things, had been taken from us so young. 

His funeral is on the 10th of November, 2016, and we have decided to ask those who are attending to not dedicate flowers, but to donate towards 2 charities that we know Phil would have loved.   We have also been receiving numerous well wishes and requests from friends and loved ones as to how you can contribute towards a meaningful response to his passing. 

Firstly Football Beyond Borders
This is a wonderful charity that Phil would have just loved as it provides massive support to young people which is what he did throughout his coaching career.  

Here's a little of what they say:-
"Our FBB Schools programme exists to tackle the linked problems of educational underachievement and social exclusion for young people from economically disadvantaged communities. We use football themed educational activities to develop the behaviour for learning, literacy skills and motivation of disengaged students."
For more information check out their amazing website
http://footballbeyondborders.org

Secondly The Maytree
The Maytree is a suicide respite centre that literally saves lives on a daily basis.  Honestly, if we or Phil had known about this unique charitable service, it's very likely that my beloved brother would still be with us today. Sadly we did not, therefore if Phil's tragic ending could in some way bring hope to another who is suffering in silence and hopefully save their life, then this could go some way towards healing the gaping hole that has been left in our lives.

Here is a little about them:-
The Maytree Suicide Respite Centre is the only place of its kind in the UK and fills a gap in services, between the medical support of the NHS and the helplines and drop-in centres of the voluntary sector. We offer a free 4-night/5-day stay, and the opportunity to be befriended and heard in complete confidence, without judgement and with compassion and warmth.
For more information please check out their website
http://www.maytree.org.uk/

Finally, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of your condolences, love and support, and thank you so much for your generosity in donating to these wonderful charities.

Much love,

Charli, Josh, Jane, Tricia and Elisa


From Southern Amateur League News

We are very sad to learn of the passing of referee Phil Cain recently, at the age of just 58. Phil was a popular character throughout AFA football as referee, referee tutor and long term member of Alexandra Park FC. He was also Old Garchonians referee secretary this season, having coached many of the club's players in their youth.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time. He will be sorely missed throughout AFA Football.
​
RIP Phil.  A fine referee and a friend to so many of us.
​
The following is from John Morris of Alexandra Park F.C.:

Phil Cain RIP

The Amateur Football Alliance and North London football community has lost one its most colourful and passionate characters: Phil Cain. He was a one in a million person who's charisma, distinctive growling voice and opinions would light up many a changing room and clubhouse, and everyone who knew him will have their own tale or story to tell.

Phil's love and contribution to the beautiful game stretches back several decades through his roles as a much respected coach, club official and referee. His disciplined approach to both coaching and officiating were renowned, but always laced with humour, whether he was taking a training drill or issuing a red card! Off the pitch Phil was highly entertaining, with many stories to tell and jokes to crack, which made him such a big hit as MC at last seasons SAL dinner.

Having tried his hands at many occupations, Phil set up his own football coaching business in the early 1990's...The Palace Soccer School, and went on to coach 1,000's of youngsters in North London, many of whom are still playing/involved in football locally. Recognising the somewhat limited opportunity to play competitive youth football, Phil then established the Alexandra Park Youth Football Club and nurtured its development between 1995 - 2004, whilst also encouraging and assisting young players to join the semi/professional football ranks.

Phil also played for APFC in the latter part of his playing career during the 1990's, often skippering a side in his own inimitable way! Players would run through brick walls for him, but those playing against him would want to hide behind one. Regardless of the result, it was never dull and boring when Phil was around and in charge!

Phil went on to become an excellent referee with the AFA, and more recently shared his experience and knowledge of the game, together no doubt with some colourful anecdotes, with new referees as both a tutor and mentor. He was definitely a players referee, as he would talk to players, have a laugh, but fairly put them in their place when required.

His final whistle came far too soon, but his legacy within youth development and refereeing, individuals and teams, will last for generations.