More Than a Match – How One Boy’s Journey Sparked a Movement at Knorr-Bremse

In 2023, Rio Amoroso, son of Knorr-Bremse’s Danny and Stacey Amoroso (both Knorr-Bremse employees), was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just 8 years old. The road since has been long, complex, and brave beyond words: surgeries, complications, learning to walk and talk again, and ongoing treatment for hydrocephalus, a lifelong condition managed by a shunt in his skull. Through it all, Rio’s love for football never faded. And now, still in recovery, it was his idea to give back, to raise money for the charities that helped his family: Harry’s Hat, Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, and others offering guidance during their darkest days. What started as a small fundraiser grew into something extraordinary.

“We never expected this level of turnout,” Danny explains. “Over 10% of the company are now involved. It changed the culture, people who never spoke are training together, laughing, supporting each other.”

The event was co-organised by Danny and Stacey who have poured their hearts into making the day a success, from planning the match to rallying support across the business and beyond. The match saw Knorr-Bremse face off against Melksham Town Youth parents and coaches, a fitting tribute, as Rio himself plays for the youth team. The event featured raffles, local vendors, face painting, coaching, and entertainment. Even Nando’s donated prizes, and even showed up in person. But the true reward is the unity it’s inspired.

“Training is the highlight of the week for so many,” says Danny. “People from 17 to 60 are taking part. There was respect, laughter, banter. And now KB United FC will continue beyond this event, we were already planning matches against our customers in 2026.” Thanks to CMD Recruitment for sponsoring the management shirts, and Giving Print for the beautiful charity board design. And thanks, most of all, to Rio, whose courage has inspired a company-wide movement. “Knorr-Bremse has been going through a lot of change lately,” Danny added, “but this has become a positive talking point across the business. It brought people together. That’s what this is really about.”