HUNDREDS of pounds have been raised as part of a community fund set up after the death of non-league footballer, Cody Fisher.
His former club, Stratford Town FC have launched a Crowdfunder for ‘Cody 23 Community Fund’ which will enable young people to gain coaching or referee qualifications.
The 23-year-old worked as a sports coach visiting several schools including Woodrow First School and Nursery in Redditch.
READ MORE: Bromsgrove Folk Festival finds new home at Avoncroft Museum
After Cody was fatally stabbed on Boxing Day at Crane nightclub in Digbeth the school said they were devastated to hear ‘of the tragic and needless death of this friendly and talented young man’.
A tribute left by one of his students outside the Birmingham nightclub read: “Mr Fisher we are gonna miss you so much. You were the best PE teacher and you inspired me so much! I will make you proud with my football and I will never forget you.”
Stratford Town have set a target of £23,000 for the Crowdfunder.
A statement on the fundraising page reads: “Tragically on Boxing Day 2022, Stratford Town FC player Cody Fisher lost his life due to knife crime.
“Cody was 23 years old.
“He was a much-loved member of our club and will be sadly missed by all.
“In memory of Cody's life, Stratford Town FC want to build a legacy fund to enable young adults from all backgrounds to gain coaching or referee qualifications.
“Cody was actively involved in coaching. He worked in several infant and junior schools teaching children the sport he loved.
“We set our target at £23,000 in keeping continuity with his age and squad number, but we aim to push on and help as many young people in Cody's memory.”
The initiative will be run in conjunction with Stratford’s academy.
READ MORE: Bromsgrove takeaway given 'satisfactory' hygiene rating
Cody’s number 23 shirt for his football club has been retired following a ceremony on January 6 with football legend Ian Holloway.
The shirt was then blessed by Rev Jon Martin.
At Stratford’s match against Kings Langley on Saturday, January 7 – the first game the team has played since the incident, a minute’s applause was held in the 23rd minute after a minute’s silence before kick-off.
Cody, who was born in Redditch also made senior appearances for Stourbridge FC, and Bromsgrove Sporting after training with Kidderminster Harrier’s academy.
To donate to the Crowdfunder visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cody-23.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here