Charity football match to honour much-loved Tavistock player

A charity football match will take place in Tavistock next month in memory of Daniel Willis, a much-loved local footballer and engineer.

The event, called The DW Cup, will be held on Saturday 10 May at Crowndale, home of Tavistock Community Football Club. 

Organised by Daniel’s brother, Carl Willis, the match will raise money for the mental health charity MIND.

“I’m hosting a charity match called ‘The DW CUP’ on Saturday 10th May in Tavistock in memory of my brother Daniel Willis,” said Carl.

“The teams will be friends of myself and his childhood friend. Donations are going to mind and hoping to see many people as possible. Refreshments and bar will be available on the day.”

The match will kick off at 2pm. 

Daniel grew up in Chillaton and Milton Abbot and was a promising young footballer who played for Tavistock Community FC. 

He had trials for the Plymouth Argyle youth academy and was known locally for his skill and dedication.

“A minute’s silence was held before kick-off at Tavistock Community FC’s game in their first game of September in memory of one of their best players,” Carl said.

Outside of football, Daniel was a qualified mechanical engineer. He attended Tavistock College, then trained at Plymouth City College before studying at Bournemouth University. He later travelled to several countries and settled in Perth, Australia, where he worked for an engineering company.

“He led by example. Whatever he did he excelled and was well loved and is very badly missed.”

Carl, who is 28 and lives in Okehampton, works for Foray Motor Group (Ford). 

He says the match is not only a tribute to Daniel’s life but also a way to spark awareness on mental health. 

“We are looking to raise awareness in mental health and let men know its ok to talk.”