Hedge End Rangers have strengthened their international ties with a special shirt exchange with Atlético Clube Avelarense, based in Portugal’s Ansião municipality. The exchange took place during a recent visit to Portugal by Luis Pinto — once a youth player at Atlético and now leader of the mini-football section at the Rangers. For Pinto, it was a chance to rekindle memories of his playing days while also building new bridges between the two community clubs. Both sides emphasised that the gesture celebrates their shared love of grassroots football, where friendships, opportunities and lifelong memories are created. Looking ahead, the clubs are keen to explore opportunities for collaboration, from youth football exchanges to cultural visits, highlighting the power of the game to bring people together across borders and generations.

A massive thank you to Atlético Avelarense, particularly Andre and Tiago, for the tour and the sharing of experiences and ideas