MAFS and Celebs Go Dating co-host becomes National League club’s surprise new co-owner

MAFS and Celebs Go Dating co-host Paul C Brunson arrives at Sutton United and becomes National League club’s surprise new co-owner.

We go back to earlier this year when Brunson appeared on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, revealing he didn’t have a football club to support, so pulled Sutton United out of a sweepstakes hat, and discovered they were in the relegation zone of League Two at the time, with some laughs heard in the studio.

But who would have since what happened next coming? He’s now made them his new love interest, and decided to invest in the south London outfit after attending his first match just a few months back.

He tweeted just two days before his side’s season in the fifth tier gets underway: “I’m proud to announce my new role as co-owner of Sutton United F.C. ⚽️

“As a passionate fan of this club, I have experienced firsthand the unity and sense of community this sport can bring. As one of only three Black co-owners of a professional English football team, I am committed to furthering diversity and inclusivity within football.

“Building on this commitment to unity and community, I am launching the Amber Army 100 Project! This initiative will invite 100 or more people, including our frontline heroes like NHS workers, teachers, and police officers, to select home matches for a special football experience. Everyone deserves a welcoming place to gather and feel safe, surrounded by great company. Even if you already have a favorite team, let Sutton be your second home!

“I can’t wait to see you at a @suttonunited match and I ask for your support as I embark on this exciting journey.”

I’m proud to announce my new role as co-owner of Sutton United F.C. ⚽️

As a passionate fan of this club, I have experienced firsthand the unity and sense of community this sport can bring. As one of only three Black co-owners of a professional English football team, I am… pic.twitter.com/P7EkuvSmRR

— Paul Carrick Brunson (@PaulCBrunson) August 8, 2024

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Welcome to the Amber Army 100 Project! I’m Paul, and I’m excited to share my journey and passion for Sutton United football with the world!

Earlier this year, I attended my first Sutton United match and instantly fell in love with the game and the sense of community it fosters. A life-changing moment for me was during my second match, where I found myself celebrating goals with a man from a different age, nationality, and background. This experience ignited my passion for football, and I knew I had found a new family.

Formed in 1898, Sutton United has a rich history that continues to grow and evolve. Beyond match days, our club is deeply involved with the community, offering a variety of activities for all ages throughout the week and year, including partnerships with local schools and charity organizations.

The Amber Army 100 Project aims to introduce both new and longtime fans to the unique and welcoming environment of a match at Gander Green Lane.

Our emphasis is on creating a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and secure. Inclusivity and hospitality are core values of our club, reflected in the warm and friendly ambience of our crowd.

As a recent but devout fan, I’m proud to have joined the Sutton United FC family as a co-owner. My investment in the team is dedicated to supporting this project and ensuring that more people can experience the joy of football.

As we enter the 2024-2025 season, I invite you to join us for a VIP home game event, hosted by yours truly. Whether you bring family and friends or come alone, I assure you it will be a memorable experience unlike any other. Let’s make some unforgettable memories together at Sutton United!

Warm regards,

Paul C. Brunson

The first event takes places on Saturday the 21st of September 2024.

This is how fans reacted as the MAFS and Celebs Go Dating co-host becomes the National League club’s surprise new co-owner…

@Chalmers76: You’ve been a ray of sunshine with every interaction you’ve had with the club up until now and it’s sounds like you are bringing so much more positivity our way! Who knew the path life could take you from simply pulling our name out that day. We’re blessed to have you on board.

@andrew_youngers: Brilliant announcement Paul! Look forward to meeting you at the club soon 🤩

@coxy731: Welcome Paul (in your new capacity). I did wonder if this was on the cards as your passion for our team has been amazing and could definetly see a benefit to their being a connection there 🟡🟤🟡🟤🟡🟤

@olufsen_ragnar: I am delighted to read this. As a Norwegian Sutton United supporter, and The Sutton United Norwegian ambassador it pleases me. Welcome. Go U’s 💛🤎

@Gidsentinel: Get in Paul, and I accidentally called it too 😂. Sutton isn’t my club but I’ll always remember how they stepped up for me and they’ve a special place in my heart. A proper football club them. Wish you all nothing but the best on your journey 🫡

@JohnDavidWood59: Very well done and good luck

@_JamesWood_: Love this, wishing you all the best, just not against Southend United in the SUFC derby.

@mss_sASSy: Why did this announcement remind me of Ted Lasso! Big congratulations 🎉🎉🎉

@NTG1980: Great to have you on board and a fantastic first initiative.

@lucyclarkref: Awesome news 🙂 Massive congratulations x

@reynoldseffect: Phenomenal. Our club is amazing. And those that come in contact with us can’t help but fall in love.

@orient1881: Hope you don’t say ‘leave’ at the first commitment ceremony. Running a football club is harder than being in a relationship. Wishing you all the best!

@Nathan33NDJ: Think it’s important for the club to have a new young owner who’s quite innovative. The reason they struggled was because the older members of the board were just happy with the club surviving so was ok if they went down

@clare_jeffs: Love this. He was drawn in by hugging the fan next to him when they scored. It’s easy to pick a big team, instead he picked a local one. And now he’s a part owner. Best wishes, Paul.

@Gandermonium: Spent one Saturday around this madhouse with us idiots and now he’s in it up to his eyeballs. 😂

@DarranPearce: I was watching Sunday Brunch the morning he picked them out and he said he lived near them. Great that he’s actually fallen in love with the club

@DJBehan: The positivity and the enthusiasm you radiate is brilliant, you are a welcome addition to our club. 🟡🟤

@amberarmySU: Brilliant to have you on our team 🔥

@johnnyhazell36: Fair shout love it’s a real club. lower levels are where it’s at, not tourists and corporate at the top level I hope you can bring them much success

@RorySP: Absolutely brilliant news Paul, welcome on board!!! 👏👏 Love the Amber Army 100 club initiative 💛