Gareth Farrelly elected as Foundation’s new Chair

The Board of Trustees at The Players Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Gareth Farrelly as the charity’s new Chair.

Gareth succeeds the Foundation’s long-serving Chair, Brendon Batson OBE, who’s term of office has come to an end. Three other trustees have also completed their terms and have stepped down – Garth Crooks OBE, Gareth Griffiths, and Jonathan Walters.

Gareth Farrelly enjoyed a distinguished career as a Premier League footballer and Republic of Ireland international before he retired early from the game and qualified as a lawyer. Gareth’s 16-year playing career took him to leading clubs including Aston Villa, Everton and Bolton Wanderers.

Gareth, who joined The Players Foundation Board in December 2025, is today a Litigation and Sports Lawyer with Glaisyers ETL, while also being a co-founder and CEO of the Union of European Clubs.                                                          

On taking up his appointment, Gareth said: ‘It’s a privilege for me to be taking on the role of Chair of The Players Foundation and I would like to pay tribute to Brendon’s distinguished leadership during a crucial period for the organisation. I am now looking forward to working alongside the whole Foundation team, as we continue to deliver our ambitious vision on behalf of all our beneficiaries.’ 

The Board also announced the appointment of former Stockport County and Blackpool player, Rob Clare, as Vice-Chair. The Foundation’s remaining Trustees are Martin Prothero, Harpreet Robertson and Professor Sue Bridgewater. 

You can find out more about our Trustees here Governance – The Players Foundation