What role does football play in shaping the identity of Greeks and Cypriots growing up in Britain?

In November 2026, the Anglo-Hellenic League, in collaboration with the Highbury Squad, will explore this question through the experiences of football supporters from London’s Greek community.

We will hear how our guests first fell in love with the game, what their clubs mean to them, and how football has shaped their friendships, families and lives. From following a team as a child to going to matches and becoming part of a wider community, supporting a club can become an important part of growing up and of our connection to the place we live.

For those growing up with Greek or Cypriot roots in Britain, this can sit alongside another strong sense of heritage and home. The conversation willexplore how these different influences come together, and the part football can play in shaping a sense of who we are.

A relaxed and personal discussion about football, family, heritage and growing up Greek or Greek-Cypriot in Britain.

This event will take place online. Details to follow shortly.

Sophie Nicolaou is a football broadcaster, presenter and lifelong Arsenal supporter. Born and raised in North London in a Greek Cypriot family, she is the host and producer of Highbury Squad, bringing together former players, journalists, broadcasters and supporters to discuss Arsenal and the wider game. She has also presented football programmes including EPL Soccer Junkie and regularly contributes to football coverage across the media. Sophie will be in conversation with Michael Cottakis, a Trustee of the Anglo-Hellenic League.