TWO years after the tragic loss of Bailey Jenkins, the football community has again united to ensure his legacy continues to encourage conversations about mental health.
The annual Bailey Jenkins Memorial Round and Bailey’s Box fundraiser brought the Coffs City United community together across 14 home matches, with hundreds of players, families and supporters gathering around Bailey’s Box throughout the weekend.
Bailey’s Box was established in memory of Bailey Jenkins – a much-loved son, brother, teammate and friend who died by suicide in April 2024.
The initiative honours his memory by encouraging connection, starting conversations and raising awareness that support is always available.
“Bailey’s Box is an initiative created in memory of Bailey, with a focus on starting conversations, strengthening connection, and reminding people that support is always available – even when the warning signs aren’t clear,” Lee Jenkins said.
“Through Bailey’s story and Bailey’s Box, we aim to honour his life by helping others feel seen, supported, and less alone.”
Coffs City United president Kate Silvy said the weekend demonstrated the strength and compassion of the local football community.
“What an incredible weekend,” she said.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported Bailey’s Box by buying a meal, making a donation, bringing food to share, lending a hand, or simply stopping by for a chat.
“Bailey’s Box has never been about raising money alone.
“While we’re proud to support Lifeline North Coast, it’s really about honouring Bailey’s memory by bringing people together, encouraging conversations, and reminding people that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
“It’s our way to give Lee and Siobhan a big CCUFC hug each year and to remind them we are here supporting them and remembering their incredible son Bailey.
“This weekend was a wonderful reminder that football is about so much more than what happens on the field. It’s about community, belonging and looking out for one another.
“Thank you for helping keep Bailey’s legacy alive.”
Donations to Bailey’s Box can still be made at: https://lnkd.in/gckM8JmV.
By David Wigley
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