This story reflects the deep connections families can have through sports, showcasing how shared passions create lasting memories and a sense of belonging.

I was 12 in this picture, and closing in on the peak of my sporting career. I’ll always look back fondly on the fun and community of growing up in a football familyMy dad made sure my two younger brothers and I were raised in a Chelsea household; the shed at the back of the garden was, we were told, where Arsenal supporters belonged. Growing up, we went to all the games at Stamford Bridge, competed in our local little league as though it were the Premier League, and followed Dad to the pub to watch Sunday matches (the cheeky chips and J2Os were at least half of the allure).I’m pretty sure I’m 12 years old in this photo and closing in on the peak of my sporting career, as I got ready to play football at a nearby park with my siblings Jevan (then nine) and Kiran (just four). Although we didn’t always have the money for the expensive new kits every season (I’m sure you can spot my mismatched camo shorts), we always had something Chelsea to wear. My dad would often dodge the high ticket prices by taking us to watch the women’s team play, as well as the under-21s, where you would witness great talent at a fraction of the cost. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/sep/01/my-favourite-childhood-outfit-we-couldnt-afford-new-kits-but-we-always-had-something-chelsea-to-wear">Continue reading...</a>

تُظهر هذه القصة الروابط العميقة التي يمكن أن تكون بين العائلات من خلال الرياضة، موضحة كيف تخلق الشغف المشترك ذكريات دائمة وإحساسًا بالانتماء.

يتذكر الكاتب طفولته في عائلة تدعم تشيلسي، مسلطًا الضوء على الفرح والمجتمع المحيط بكرة القدم.

Esta historia refleja las conexiones profundas que las familias pueden tener a través del deporte, mostrando cómo las pasiones compartidas crean recuerdos duraderos y un sentido de pertenencia.

El autor recuerda su infancia en una familia que apoyaba al Chelsea, destacando la alegría y la comunidad que rodea al fútbol.

Cette histoire illustre les liens profonds que les familles peuvent avoir à travers le sport, montrant comment des passions communes créent des souvenirs durables et un sentiment d'appartenance.

L'auteur se remémore son enfance dans une famille de supporters de Chelsea, mettant en avant la joie et la communauté autour du football.

The author reminisces about their childhood in a Chelsea-supporting family, highlighting the joy and community of growing up around football.