IN a world where football often shines brightest under stadium lights, it’s the quieter, more personal moments that leave the deepest impact…
Charles Dunne, known for his grit and determination on the pitch, has also become known for something far more meaningful off it — a heartfelt friendship with a young girl with autism.
A meeting with Rebecca Seeley happened by chance during his time at Motherwell and contact remained during his spell at St Mirren, and now at Coleraine.
Dunne was spotted climbing into the stands and chatting to Rebecca and her family during last Saturday’s friendly at Fleetwood Town, before bringing her onto the pitch to meet the current first-team squad.
But how has the unlikely bond all come about?
Rebecca’s dad Alastair explains: “It started back in 2018 when we took her to Motherwell games but Rebecca was shy and struggled to overly engage due to her autism.
“However, Charles put his water bottle down at the side of the pitch one day and Rebecca’s eyes lit up and he’s now the only player she will follow and speak to.
“I must say Charles has been outstanding with her since finding this out and that’s how the special friendship has been formed.
“Rebecca has watched Charles now for Mortherwell, St. Mirren and Coleraine. I remember he invited Rebecca and her mum into the hospitality section at St Mirren, whilst me and her brother watched in the away end.
“She always gets excited seeing her ‘Chilli D’ as Rebecca puts it, so it’s made her enjoy football both individually and as a family.”
So, have we now adopted some new Coleraine fans for the foreseeable future?
“For sure,” Alastair replied.
“The whole family are huge football fans and the trip to Fleetwood Town was amazing.
“We are planning a trip to Coleraine in September as Rebecca will be mascot for the game against Glentoran.
“We can’t wait for that and the engagement we’ve had with Coleraine has been amazing so far and it’s something we all appreciate.”