Leyton Orient players, Arthur Janata and Craig Clay kept up their team’s high performance this season when they visited residents at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House on Wednesday for Mitzvah Day.
The 18-year-old goalie, Arthur and 26-year-old midfielder, Craig teamed up with Harry Buitekant, 98, Harold Gordon, 90 and Howard Wayland, 67, for a game of table football with a combined age of around 300 years. There was plenty to talk about including Orient’s current position at the top of the league as well as highlights of the games and players from years gone by.
Harry Buitekant, born 30 April 1920, said, “I’m a big Orient fan. I never missed a game until recently. My Dad took me when I was young and I brought my son to games since he was about 6 too. Now my grandson is a fan too. I thoroughly enjoyed the visit from the young players. They may not be in the premiership but they’re still my favourites.”
After playing a few rounds of table football, the players spoke to residents in the lounges. Craig Clay, said, “It was good fun to play table football and really nice to have a good chat with people and hear their stories.”
Arthur Janata, who grew up and still lives in Chingford, agreed, “It was so interesting to hear about what the residents had done before now and know more about what Jewish Care does to support the community.”
Leyton Orient Club Liason Officer, Howard Gould added, “It’s always a pleasure to visit Vi & John Rubens House and we always receive a warm welcome. I think next year will be our tenth anniversary so a cake might be on the cards!
“Hearing the stories from yesteryear from some of the resident O’s supporters really does confirm just how important the football club is in the community and I’m really pleased we can encourage these reminiscence’s. Already looking forward to next year!”
Momarr Camara, Manager of Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House, said, “Our residents really enjoyed talking to the young players and sharing stories as many of them have been football fans all their lives and it brings back positive memories for them. Craig and Arthur are a real credit to the team and we are so pleased with our continued relationship with the Leyton Orient Trust. We look forward to welcoming them back to the home for next Mitzvah Day.”
