The Once Upon a Smile Celebrity Team is back for one match only this April, taking on the Wythenshawe Vets in a special charity fixture held in memory of Isaac and Ellis.
The Wythenshawe Vets squad features an impressive line-up of former professional footballers, including Papiss Cissé, Danny Drinkwater, Stephen Ireland and Emile Heskey, among others.
Leading the Once Upon a Smile side are Co-Captains and charity founders Danny Miller and Daniel Jillings, who are bringing together a strong team of celebrity friends, footballers and influencers. The match promises a competitive and entertaining game, all in support of raising vital funds for Once Upon a Smile as the charity marks its 15th year supporting bereaved children and families.
Daniel Jillings, CEO comments “This match celebrates the strength of families and reminds us no one has to face grief alone. We’re so grateful to these families for coming together to support Once Upon a Smile”
Confirmed players for the Once Upon a Smile team include Emmerdale stars Joe-Warren Plant, Jay Kontzle and James Hooton, alongside This Is England actor Tom Turgoose.
They will be joined by former Premier League players including Wes Brown, John O’Shea, Glenn Whelan and Chris Eagles, with more names to be announced.
This special event has been organised by two incredible families in memory of Isaac and Ellis. Both families have been supported by Once Upon a Smile, and their strength and generosity in sharing their journey has made this event possible, alongside the support of Altrincham F.C..
The match promises to be an unmissable occasion, with a range of pre- and post-match entertainment for supporters of all ages to enjoy.
UPDATED-April 2026 players listings:
FULL LINE UP:
Once Upon a Smile XI
- Rod Thornley
- John O’Shea
- Darren Gibson
- Carlo Nash
- Danny Webber
- Wes Brown
- Glen Whelan
- Stu Coburn
- Chris Eagles
- Dale Stephens
- Darren Fletcher
- Frank Sinclair
- James Hooton – Emmerdale
- Daniel Jillings -Coronation Street
- Joe-Warren Plant – Emmerdale
- Jay Kontzle – Emmerdale
- Tom Law – Eastenders
- Influencer-Harry Cain
Wythenshawe Vets
- Kieran Westwood
- Joleon Lescott
- Danny Simpson
- Danny Drinkwater
- Stephen Ireland
- Maynor Figueroa
- Papiss Cisse
- George Boyd
- James Chester
- Nedum Onuaha
- Paul McShane
- Mark Albrigton
- Corey Evans
- Oumar Niasse
- David Norris
Tickets are available now from Altrincham Football Club – Altrincham FC
Or click the BOOK NOW button below.
Businesses interested in supporting the event are encouraged to get in touch.
Press enquiries: [email protected]
