Charity, Sport | Posted on June 2nd, 2026 | return to news

Dorset air ambulance launches football-themed challenge

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is hoping participants will try to do 3,000 keepy uppies during the World Cup.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 takes place from 11 June to 19 July and during that time Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) is hoping football fans, schools, workplaces and youth teams will take part in The Big Keepy Uppy Challenge.

The ambulance is called out around 3,000 times every year, so the charity is challenging supporters to complete one keepy uppy for every call-out, helping to support life-saving care across the region.

Supporters can get involved in a way that works for them, whether that means taking part alone or alongside friends, colleagues, schools, or sports clubs.

The challenge is free to enter, with fundraising encouraged. Everyone who takes part will be entered into a prize draw to win a signed AFC Bournemouth football, and those who raise £35 will receive an exclusive DSAA-branded mini football as a thank you for their support.

Rosie Cornelius-Light, DSAA fundraising officer, said: “We are really excited to launch The Big Keepy Uppy Challenge this summer and see people across Dorset and Somerset get involved. Whether you manage 30, 300 or all 3,000, every keepy uppy helps support life-saving care. As a guide, 3,000 works out at around 80 a day, but there are no strict rules. It’s about taking part, having fun, and giving it a go.”

Participants are encouraged to share their progress on social media and tag Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance on social media using @dsairambulance. More information and sign-up details are available at www.dsairambulance.org.uk/keepyuppy.