Swindon Town FC has unveiled an innovative training kit designed to raise awareness of Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The shirts feature UV-U-SEE, a pioneering logo that changes colour as UV levels rise, reminding players and fans to protect their skin.
The initiative was inspired by manager Ian Holloway’s recent skin cancer scare, which saw him undergo surgery in May to remove a growth from his face. Determined to use his experience to help others, Holloway partnered with UV-U-SEE and creative agency Pablo to highlight the hidden risks of sun exposure in sport.
Research compiled by the Skincare Network suggest that athletes have been found to exceed normal UV exposure by up to 700%, yet just one in four states that they regularly use sunscreen. The issue isn’t confined to the pitch, with the Melanoma Fund finding one in three (29%) football fans have experienced sunburn while watching or playing.
The UV-U-SEE logo, developed by Pablo, is made from a UV-sensitive silicone that shifts from white to pink to red as UV levels intensify. Bold and highly visible, it provides a simple cue to apply sunscreen or take cover – even on grey days, when up to 90% of UV rays can still penetrate clouds.
For Pablo’s joint managing director Hannah Penn, the campaign is also personal. Diagnosed with Melanoma in 2022, just days after the birth of her second son, she recognised the opportunity to combine her own experience with Holloway’s to drive lasting change.
Hannah said, “Melanoma cases have tripled in the last 30 years, yet too many people still treat sun safety as a summer-only issue. In reality, UV is strong enough to damage skin in one out of every four autumn and winter days in the UK. Sport adds an extra risk factor, as players are exposed for long periods, and sweat makes the skin even more sensitive. By making the invisible visible, UV-U-SEE helps spark the behaviour change we urgently need.”
Ian Holloway added, “Going through my own skin cancer scare was a real shock and something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Having to undergo surgery to remove a growth from my face made me painfully aware of just how easily we can underestimate the risks of sun exposure, even when we’re simply enjoying sport or being active outdoors.”
“I realised that many people don’t think about sun safety until it’s too late, and that’s why I wanted to use my experience to help others. Partnering with UV-U-SEE and Pablo allows us to shine a light on these hidden dangers and encourage everyone to take precautions – whether it’s wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, or checking their skin regularly. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can motivate others to enjoy the sun safely, protect themselves, and never ignore the warning signs that something might be wrong.”
Lewis Ward, goalkeeper at Swindon Town said, “As a player, I spend so much time training and playing outdoors, and I’ve seen first hand how easy it is to forget about the dangers of sun exposure.”
“I really believe that a product like this can make a real difference – not just for players like me, but for everyone in the sport. It’s about protecting ourselves while also raising awareness across the industry and beyond.”
“If we can help even a few people understand the risks and take action early, that’s a win for everyone. I’m proud to be part of something that not only keeps players safe but also encourages a wider conversation about sun safety in sport.”
The colour-changing training kit will be worn throughout the 2025/26 season, ensuring players, staff and supporters alike are reminded to take sun protection seriously.
