At Football Escapes the kids usually take centre stage, but once a week it’s the parents’ turn to shine. Enter: the Parents’ Match. An energy-filled showdown that’s become a core part of the Football Escapes experience, where mums and dads swap the sidelines for centre pitch (and maybe a few pulled hamstrings).
From Sidelines to Spotlight
After watching their children train with Premier League legends all week, the anticipation among our parents begins to build. You’ll see it in the quiet stretches by the sun loungers, the tactical whispers over breakfast, or the slightly-too-competitive glint in their eye when they hear, “Parents’ Match is tonight.”
Then the time comes. The boots go on, the pitch lights up, and the nerves turn into laughter as parents line up… often opposite their own kids, who are more than ready to heckle from the sidelines.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Moments
But this isn’t just any friendly match. It’s a chance to play with and against footballing icons: Wayne Rooney leading the charge in Dubai, Joe Hart calling the shots from between the sticks, or Theo Walcott casually switching on the afterburners. These are the kind of memories that stay with you long after the tan fades.
We’ve had…
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Nutmegs by the pros (and from a few overconfident mums and dads).
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Parents scoring screamers (that they’ll never let the family forget).
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Sideline celebrations that looked straight out of the Premier League.
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And yes… a few very slow recoveries the next morning!
The Parents’ Match at Football Escapes turns the tables in the best possible way – it’s mum and dad’s moment to swap the sidelines for centre stage and kick off with the very legends they grew up idolising. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to prove you’ve still got the skills, make memories your kids will brag about, and experience that child-meets-dream moment all over again.
A Game for Everyone
What makes the Parents’ Match so special is that it’s not about winning, it’s about stepping onto the pitch, laughing with your family, and showing the kids that football really is for everyone- whatever your age, ability, or fitness level.
Whether you’ve never kicked a ball before or you’re convinced you almost went pro, the vibe is always the same: fun, friendly, and unforgettable.
This Is What Football Escapes Is All About
Football Escapes is so much more than just football. It’s about family, connection, and unforgettable moments. And the Parents’ Match captures that perfectly.
The energy is electric as parents take to the pitch alongside the icons they grew up watching. From friendly banter to epic nutmegs and high-fives with Premier League legends, it’s more than just a match- it’s a moment to reconnect with the game, share laughs, and make memories with their children cheering (or laughing) from the stands.
So next time you join us on a Football Escapes holiday, bring your boots-and be ready for your big moment under the lights. The kids will be watching, the coaches will be cheering, and who knows… you might even bag yourself a goal (or at least a cracking photo for the mantelpiece).
May Half Term is just around the corner… and so is your next unforgettable football holiday! Get your chance to play with Premier League legends, and show the kids how it’s done! Or looking ahead? Our New 2026 Dates have just been released – giving you plenty of time to practice!
