Leeds United ambassador Tony Dorigo visited the club's Ups and Downs Cafe this week, engaging with supporters and sharing stories from his playing career. The former defender spent Wednesday afternoon at Elland Road with the group supported by the Leeds United Foundation.
Dorigo discussed his journey from Australia to the Premier League and offered honest reflections on his time with Leeds United. The session strengthened community ties through shared memories and conversation in a relaxed environment.
The club currently sits ninth in the Premier League with five points from three matches. Their record shows one win and two draws, with a goal difference of plus one after scoring three and conceding two. Leeds trail leaders Manchester City by four points in the early season standings.
The Leeds United Foundation runs the Ups and Downs Cafe every Wednesday afternoon at Elland Road. This initiative provides a friendly space where supporters can gather to reduce isolation and encourage open conversation about mental wellbeing.
Funding comes directly from the Premier League Players Fund, which supports community projects across football clubs. The cafe represents the club's commitment to supporter welfare beyond matchdays, creating regular opportunities for connection at the stadium.
Tony Dorigo shared personal experiences from his professional career, including his transition from Australian football to England's top division.
"Tony spent time with the group discussing his journey from Australia to the Premier League and his experiences, offering honest and engaging reflections on his career in the game," the club reported. His visit provided unique insight into life at the highest level of football during Leeds' successful period under Howard Wilkinson.
While community initiatives continue off the pitch, Daniel Farke's squad prepares for their next Premier League challenge. Leeds host Newcastle United at Elland Road on September 14th in a match between ninth and seventh-placed teams.
The squad faces some selection challenges with three players currently sidelined. Ilia Gruev, Joe Rodon and Mateo Joseph are all unavailable. Supporters can track the team's progress through the standings as the season develops.
Mental health support has become an increasing priority across professional sports organizations. The Ups and Downs Cafe addresses this directly by providing regular, accessible meetings at the heart of the club's operations.
These sessions help normalize conversations about wellbeing among football supporters who might otherwise struggle with isolation. By hosting the program at Elland Road, the foundation makes the stadium a community hub throughout the week, not only on matchdays.
Those interested in attending future sessions can contact the Leeds United Foundation via email for more information. The club's next home fixture against Newcastle United takes place on September 14th at Elland Road.
