A Dream in Blue: Honoring Tony Treadwell's Lifelong Love of Football

NEWTON, N.C. - Rezul -- Abernethy Laurels resident Tony Treadwell, a lifelong football enthusiast and former FIFA referee, had a dream fulfilled this week as he attended a Hickory FC match at Lenoir-Rhyne University, thanks to the Grant A Dream™ program.

Tony, 91, was born in Battersea, London in 1933, just blocks away from Chelsea Football Club—a team he has supported with unwavering devotion throughout his life. He fondly recalls playing football in the streets during the Blitz, later going on to play for local clubs and serve as a FIFA-certified referee, even officiating international matches featuring soccer legends such as Pelé.

After moving to the United States in 1968, Tony continued his involvement in the sport, coaching his own youth soccer team and passing his passion on to his grandsons. Even today, despite cognitive impairments and physical limitations, Tony still proudly sings the Chelsea FC theme song word-for-word.

Tony has been a resident of Abernethy Laurels' skilled nursing facility since August 2023, where he receives secure memory care. Becky Smith, Social Worker at Abernethy Laurels, submitted Tony's application to the Grant A Dream™ program, a nonprofit initiative funded by the EveryAge Foundation, that helps older adults in care communities experience meaningful moments tied to lifelong passions.

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"Tony played well into his 70s," said Smith. "Even now, when many memories are out of reach, his love for Chelsea and the game of football is something that still lights him up."

Although the original game day was postponed due to rain, Tony was able to attend the rescheduled match on Saturday, July 12th, joined by his family and caregiver. The team at Abernethy Laurels is honored to have played a part in making this special moment a reality for Tony. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Hickory Football Club for their generosity in donating extra tickets and a game jersey after learning about Tony's dream.

About Grant A Dream™
The EveryAge Foundation supports programs that enhance the lives of older adults across a network of senior living communities, including Lake Prince Woods. Grant a Dream™ is one of its signature initiatives, dedicated to making meaningful moments possible for seniors.

About EveryAge
EveryAge is an industry leader among not-for-profit senior living organizations, with 16 programs that serve more than 3,100 older adults in North Carolina and Virginia. For details, visit www.everyage.org.