Microsoft UK Partner Championship raises more than £100,000 for Cancer Ninjas

Sixteen football teams, two nets, one goal – to raise money for charity. And when community spirit meets purpose, incredible things happen.

On a bright summer day at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic FC, the Microsoft UK Partner Championship returned for its second year, bringing together competing teams with one shared mission: to raise funds for Cancer Ninjas in aid of Cancer Research UK.

What unfolded was more than just a football tournament; it was a celebration of unity, generosity, and the extraordinary strength of the Microsoft partner community.

Former England, Leicester City and Liverpool player Emile Heskey made a guest appearance to rally the players, show off some of his skills, and present the trophies. And Simon Williams, CEO of headline sponsor, Trustmarque, joined on the day to share his support.

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People power

From the first whistle to the final trophy lift, the day was full of camaraderie and competition. But the real victory wasn’t measured in goals. It was in the £107,000 raised – a testament to the collective power of a community rallying around a cause that touches so many lives.

More than a match

There was plenty of silverware up for grabs on the day, with 40 matches played over 7 hours on the Addicks’ immaculate pitch:

Bytes took home the Trustmarque Champions Cup;

Pax8 won the Shield;

MSFC Blue triumphed in the Plate;

Ingram Micro secured the Bowl.

But the day’s true winners were the people and families who will benefit from the life-saving research this event supports.

Orla McGrath, Microsoft UK’s Global Partnership Solutions Lead and Give Executive Sponsor, said: “At Microsoft, giving back is a core part of our mission to empower every person and every organisation on the planet to achieve more.

“We believe that when we come together as a community – whether through fundraising, volunteering, or supporting vital causes – we create ripple effects of positive change that extend far beyond our workplace.”

Nearly 200 players gathered at Charlton Athletic FC’s ground in south-east London

Special recognition went to Marcus Gooding of CGI – named Cancer Ninjas Player of the Tournament – and to Nicola Miller of Ingram Micro, who received the Emile Heskey Legends’ Award, presented by the England legend himself.

Both players showcased the attitude and commitment that goes into making these days so successful.

“Our commitment to social impact is deeply rooted in the belief that technology, when combined with compassion and collective action, can help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges,” Orla added.

“That’s why we actively support initiatives like Cancer Ninjas and Cancer Research UK, and why our partner ecosystem continues to be a powerful force for good, proving that when we unite around a shared purpose, we can truly make a difference.”

Community in action

One special element of this event was the effort behind the scenes. An 11-person v-team dedicated more than 435 volunteer hours from January to June, coordinating everything from stadium logistics to sponsorships, branding to fixtures.

On the day, dozens more volunteers stepped up, running competitions, guiding guests, and ensuring every detail was pitch-perfect.

(Top left to right) Jamie Butt; Tim Carnell; Emma Hurrell; Maddy Ricci; Emile Heskey; Hannah Garland; Rob Harvey; Katie Smith; Dan Figueredo. (Bottom left to right): Aaran Ladva; Mike Horlock; Kwadwo Benko; Clare Rees, Bex Netteryd; Adam Renshaw

“This wasn’t just a Microsoft event. It was a community movement,” says Adam Renshaw, Microsoft UK Football Club co-chair and Senior Employee Communications Manager.

“A shared effort by partners, colleagues, and friends who believe in giving back and lifting each other up.

“I’m immensely proud of everyone who went above and beyond to make this a success, and I already can’t wait for next year!”

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