Bantams legend Ian Ormondroyd to support new session for men in Bradford

Bantams legend and former Foundation CEO Ian Ormondroyd shall attend the 'Same Shirt, Different Lives' sessions in Bradford.

City legend and former Foundation CEO Ian Ormondroyd will participate in a series of upcoming support sessions for men in Bradford and the wider area.

‘Same Shirt, Different Lives’ is a project delivered by The Roots Programme, in partnership with Bradford City FC Community Foundation, the official charity of Bradford City AFC.

The project provides a space for conversations between fans of different walks of life, with a chance for them to swap stories and see football - and life in the UK - from each other's point of view.

Male City supporters and sports fans from across the city are invited to participate in the 'Same Shirt Different Lives' project. 

Ian Ormondroyd, who has commenced a new position as Chief Ambassador and Senior Advisor at the Foundation after over 25 years as CEO, said: “I have seen throughout my career as both a footballer and at the Foundation the power of peer support, and the benefit it can have on the lives of men in our city. This is a chance for men of all backgrounds to gather, get to know and support each other, and explore what it means to be a sports fan in 2026. I look forward to getting to know all who attend, and fostering conversations about what being a Bantam represents, and the huge impact following this club has had on all of our lives.”

Male City supporters and sports fans from across the city are invited to participate in the project. 

Sessions will include relaxed discussions and conversation prompts, led by The Roots Programme’s team of facilitators. Attendees’ experiences as sports fans, the stories they have to tell and the role their club has played in their lives will underline the discussions.

Ruth Ibegbuna, Founder and CEO of The Roots Programme said: "We're proud and excited to bring this programme of work to the Bradford City FC Community Foundation, as one of our partner organisations. I was born and raised in Bradford and my mum still attends the matches at Valley Parade. City has played a special role in our family over the years. This is an opportunity for fans to relax and discuss football, as well as life beyond the sport, at a time when connecting across communities is essential."

Ian Ormondroyd represented City in two spells between 1985-89, and 1995-96.

The ‘Same Shirt, Different Lives’ project will be hosted at the Foundation’s City Hub, right next to City’s home at Valley Parade, and the first session will be held on Thursday 16th July between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Further sessions will be held monthly in August and September as part of the project’s initial run.

Men in Bradford and the wider area can express their interest in attending the sessions via this form.

The 'Same Shirt Different Lives' project provides a space for conversations between fans of different walks of life, with a chance for them to swap stories and see football - and life in the UK - from each other's point of view.

About The Roots Programme

The Roots Programme CIC is a social enterprise founded by Ruth Ibegbuna. Through its work in schools, communities, workplaces and football clubs, Roots creates opportunities for people from different backgrounds and life experiences to connect, challenge assumptions and better understand one another. Working with partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors, Roots develops programmes that strengthen relationships, encourage meaningful dialogue and build more connected communities across the UK.

The Roots Programme is generously supported by The National Lottery Community Fund.