The Ash and wider community is coming together this spring to honour the life of 15‑year‑old Luis Gabriel, who tragically lost his life following a fatal incident in Guildford’s Stoke Park on 19 January. His death has deeply affected family, friends, teammates and residents across the area. Luis, who moved to the UK from Peru a little over four years ago, was known for his warm personality, enthusiasm and talent on the football pitch. Those who knew him have described him as a bright, joyful and passionate young man who “lit up every room and every pitch he stepped onto.”
A Memorial Match Celebrating the Game He Loved
A special testimonial match will take place at Farnborough FC on 14 April, bringing together the two clubs that shaped Luis as a footballer. Churt U16 Vipers will play against a specially reformed Mytchett Athletic U16 Kestrels side, brought back together by Luis’ former coaches for this one‑off occasion.
Organisers explained that Luis played most recently for Churt Football Club, having joined them at the start of this season. Before that, he had been a proud member of Mytchett Athletic Kestrels, a team that folded last year. His former coaches have reunited the Kestrels specifically for this fixture, creating a match that reflects everything Luis loved about football.
Supporting Young People and Creating Positive Change
All proceeds from the event will support the Luis Gabriel Memorial Fund, established to honour his memory and help drive positive change. The fund aims to raise awareness of the impact of knife crime, support prevention and youth education projects, and use football as a way to engage at‑risk young people. It also plans to install memorial benches at his clubs and his school.
Organisers hope the match will not only celebrate Luis’s life but also inspire efforts to support children and young people across the county. His loss has highlighted the importance of providing safe, supportive environments and positive opportunities for young people to thrive.
A Community Standing Together
Tributes from family, friends, school staff and the wider community demonstrate the impact Luis had on those around him. He has been remembered as a kind young boy, a caring friend and a talented footballer who brought energy and joy to all who knew him.
As the teams take to the pitch on 14 April, the memorial match will stand as a reminder of the strength of community, the importance of supporting young people and the lasting legacy Luis leaves behind.
Match details
All are warmly invited to attend the match or support the memorial fund. Details can be found on the organisers’ website.
www.zeffy.com/organizations/the-luis-gabriel-fund
- Farnborough Football Club, BR Saunders Transport Community Stadium, Cherrywood Rd, Farnborough GU14 8UD
- Tuesday 14th April 2026
- Kick off 19:00
- Enter by donation