13 Oct Recognition for Tony!
Recognition for Tony!
Tony quite rightly has recently received an award for his voluntary services to the club’s community work by Enfield Voluntary Action. The event at the Millfield Theatre on 4 October recognises the voluntary work carried out in Enfield and Tony was a worthy recipient.
Picture – Tony receiving his award from the Mayor of Enfield
Now 80 years young, Tony followed the old Enfield FC and first came to watch the Town in 2016. He was immediately impressed with the set-up, the quality of the football, how accessible players and coaching staff were and soon became a regular attending games home and away. He immediately signed up as a member. He felt the club was unique and that being a member was important “With the club being owned by its supporters you can only get out of it what you put in” and he wanted to play his part in making a contribution. Tony talks fondly of the friendships he has made at the club and how his sons now also follow the Town’s results and his grandson Thomas who lives in Bristol, says the Towners are his favourite Non-League side because it makes Gramps so happy when they win!!!!!
His role in helping the club with its community work came about when he heard that Club Life President Roger Reed was stepping down and the club needed a volunteer to assist with coaching sessions for children aged 5 to 11 who had motor co-ordination problems. Tony went along to one of the sessions and immediately saw the impact they had and had no hesitation in volunteering to take over the role. The children who attend are referred to the club by the local NHS Childrens Physiotherapy team. Tony coordinates attendance with our NHS partners and attends the sessions which take place on Thursdays. However, it’s Tony’s approach that makes him such an asset to the club. He ensures that the children and their parents feel welcome and enjoy the sessions and Tony is at pains to emphasise that the sessions are a team effort “It is so satisfying to see how these children who otherwise may not get the opportunity to play football enjoy the sessions. I get more out of it than I put in. Alfie Russell our coach is marvellous with the children but none of this could happen without the support of my fellow trustees particularly Christine and Ian Hamilton and Liz Chowne”.
Tony urges others not to have any hesitation in becoming a member and volunteering. “The ground maintenance sessions on Thursdays are another example of bringing people together and helping our club”.
Thanks Tony!
Paul Millington
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