"Football is for everyone": mum of Brentford super-fan Woody, from Teddington, reacts to his viral fame

By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter

5th Nov 2021 | Local News

Last month, Teddington boy and Brentford super-fan Woody O'Rourke went viral after he shared a touching moment with Brentford manager Thomas Frank.

Described by some as "the photo of the season," the picture of Woody's embrace with Frank has gained him many fans and he is now being recognised across the country.

"People are asking for photos, both kids and adults," said his mum, Natalie O'Rourke, who runs Teddington's Park Lane Stables.

"Children are swapping their shirts with him, they are giving him footballs.

"It's a very unexpected turn of events!"

Woody, who has down syndrome, started going to Brentford matches four years ago after he was rejected from a local club.

The premier league club (then in the Championship) welcomed him with open arms and he was invited to the stadium and made a mascot the next day.

"Brentford have always treated Woody really really well," Natalie said.

"The fans are so welcoming to us.

"I really want to get the message out there that football is for everyone."

Natalie is also keen to promote down syndrome awareness - the official awareness day is held on 21 March every year, signifying the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.

While Woody does face challenges due to his condition, Natalie focuses on the things he can do and the positives it can bring.

Watching football, "[Woody] can feel emotions, he carries that passion - that hope and heartbreak," she said.

"He is infectious, a life enhancer.

"He takes pleasure in everything and makes friends wherever he goes.

"I hope our story helps someone in the future."

Read more about Woody and Brentford

Read more about Down Syndrome Awareness Day and the work of the Down's Syndrome Association

     

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