Aroundtown Magazine Nov/Dec 2023 edition

SPORT
Recognising
the heroes of
grassroots
football
There would be no grassroots
football without the tremendous
work that volunteers do year in,
year out.
They are the beating heart of the footballing
community who give their time, effort and
energy to make a positive impact on the game.
As a way of thanking them for their
dedication, the Sheffield and Hallamshire
County FA hosted their annual Grassroots
Football Awards at Hillsborough Stadium in
October hosted by BBC Radio Sheffield’s
Andy Giddings.
The county FA received over 160
nominations, so it was extremely tough for the
independent panel to judge. This year, as well
as a winner in each of the 12 categories, there
was a highly commended prize.
Club of the Year
Kiveton Park FC
Kiveton Park FC are the beating heart of their
community. They ensure all teams and players
are treated equally and encourage players to
progress from youth teams to adult teams. This
year that became a reality for both the men’s
and women’s teams, providing additional
positive role models for others within the club.
Highly Commended:
Darnall Diamonds
Coach of the Year Male
Pathway
David Johnson, Tinsley JFC
David consistently prioritises player
development and recognises the unique needs
of each individual, regardless of their gender,
race, or faith. During Ramadan, he collaborated
with parents of fasting players to ensure
inclusivity within the team.
Highly Commended:
Steven Beckitt, Swinton Spartans
The Lioness Award
Gail Fletcher, Silver Strikers
Gail founded Rotherham-based women’s
recreational football team, Silver Strikers, from
scratch with no funding. Today, there is a team
of over 30 women of mixed ages and abilities,
most of whom have never played football
before or have returned to the game after many
years away.
Highly Commended:
Megan Wylde, Millmoor Juniors
Grounds Team of the Year
Malcolm Geal, Scissett FC
Dubbed the ‘grass whisperer’ by everyone
at the club, Malcolm has turned his club’s pitch
from ‘The Deep’ to a field of dreams in just three
years without any formal training or experience
in grounds management.
Highly Commended:
Will Burden, Wickersley Youth JFC
Coach of the Year Female
Pathway
John Bridgman, Hallam Rangers
U12 Girls
John’s team welcomes girls of all abilities,
including many who have never played football
before. He provides every girl with equal
playing time and works diligently to develop
every player.
Highly Commended:
Holly Emery, Sprotbrough and Cusworth
Crusaders
80 aroundtownmagazine.co.uk