The first Football Aid event at the Stadium of Light took place in May 2001 with former Black Cats Richie Pitt and Bobby Kerr acting as Mangers to the two enthusiastic sides. Richard Ord also featured in defence for the Away team and when asked how it felt to be playing on the famous pitch alongside the legend, one participant was particularly philosophical: "I'll keep him right, don't worry. I'll also tell him that he'll have to carry the other ten players..." The Club have continued their successful relationship with Football Aid and the games since have featured a raft of famous names, including Niall Quinn, Gary Bennett, Kevin Ball, Marco Gabbiadini, Mickey Horswill, Craig Russell, Len Ashurst and John Kay.