On the evening of October 18, 2024, the Lincolnshire FA proudly hosted the annual Grassroots Football Awards at the stunning Forest Pines Hotel, Spa, and Golf Resort.

This year's ceremony was a resounding success, bringing together over 200 guests from the local football community to honor the incredible contributions made to grassroots football in the region.

The evening was expertly compered by Rob Makepeace from BBC Radio Lincolnshire, whose engaging presence set the tone for a night filled with celebration, camaraderie, and recognition.

The evening celebrated 12 Grassroots Football Award winners, 5 Long Service Award winners, 2 Referee Long Service Award winners, 5 Referee Award winners, 12 Valued Service Award winners, 1 Meritorious Award winner, and 1 FA 50 Year Award winner. 

Celebrating Our Grassroots Heroes

This year's event showcased the remarkable individuals, clubs, and leagues that have gone above and beyond to support grassroots football in Lincolnshire. The local football community responded enthusiastically to our call for nominations, resulting in an impressive 248 nominations across twelve award categories. These nominations highlighted the passion and dedication of volunteers, coaches, players, and clubs that keep grassroots football thriving.

The awards ceremony not only recognised the winners but also served as a testament to the collective spirit of the grassroots football community, celebrating the hard work and commitment that often goes unnoticed.

Capturing the Moments

The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, touching stories, and well-deserved accolades. Attendees captured countless candid moments, and we invite everyone to relive the excitement through our photo galleries. You can find the candid images from the evening here and the posed photos here.

Additionally, the event program, detailing the evening's proceedings and showcasing the nominees, can be accessed here. Hard copies of the program are also available at the Lincolnshire FA offices for those who wish to collect one.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As we reflect on this fantastic evening, the Lincolnshire FA extends a heartfelt thank you to all who attended, nominated, and supported the event. The Grassroots Football Awards not only highlight the successes of the past year but also inspire us to continue working together to nurture and develop football at the grassroots level.

We look forward to celebrating more grassroots heroes in the future and continuing to make a positive impact in our community through the beautiful game. Stay tuned for next year’s event, and let's keep the spirit of grassroots football alive!

Chair of Lincolnshire FA, Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam, said: "Events like the Grassroots Football Awards are vital for recognising and celebrating the remarkable contributions of individuals and clubs that keep football thriving at the grassroots level. It's inspiring to see so many passionate people come together to honor our local heroes. Together, we can continue to foster an inclusive and vibrant football community in Lincolnshire.”

CEO of Lincolnshire FA, Nick Hanson, said: “The Grassroots Football Awards highlight the incredible dedication and hard work of those involved in our local football community. It was a fantastic evening that brought together passionate individuals and organizations, all committed to making grassroots football accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and winners for their outstanding contributions.”

Media, Marketing & Events Officer at Lincolnshire FA, said: “The Grassroots Football Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that grassroots football has on our community. It was an honor to celebrate the achievements of so many dedicated individuals, clubs, and leagues. The enthusiasm and passion displayed throughout the evening truly showcase the spirit of football in Lincolnshire. A big thank you to everyone who participated and made this event such a success!”

The 2024 Winners

Dallas Scott Davey Female Pathway Coach of the Year: Gavin Lee - Sleaford Town Junior Football Club

Dallas Scott Davey Male Pathway Coach of the Year: James Todd - Bears FC

Dallas Scott Davey Disability Pathway Coach of the Year: Mick Potts - Bottesford Town FC

Young Female Referee of the Year: Lexie McAteer

Young Male Referee of the Year: Cassey Rook

Young Volunteer of the Year: Isabelle Jones - Sleaford Town Junior Football Club 

Grounds Team of the Year: Dave Holmes & Team - Deeping Rangers FC

Match Official of the Year: Richard Gutsell

TeamFeePay Long Service Awards: 

• Simon Morton - Kirton Lindsey JFC
• Lee Waddington - Wyberton Colts FC
• James Payling - Wyberton FC
• Eddie Graves - Boston Town FC
• Robin Wilson - Alford Town FC

Referee Long Service Awards:

• Paul Hindle
• Christopher Lamb

Positive Football Environment Award: Gemma Bell - Lincoln United FC

Pygott & Crone Club of the Year: Spalding United

Male Referee of the Year: Ryan Calvert

Female Referee of the Year: Laura Van Lier

Pygott & Crone League of the Year: Crofts Estate Agents Youth Football League - Grimsby

TeamFeePay Valued Service Awards:

• Derrick Mumby - Blyborough United FC
• Mick Naden - Blyborough United FC
• Malcolm Creasey - Wyberton FC
• Phil Bee - Stamford AFC
• Jevon Southam - Cleethorpes Town FC
• Richard Taylor - Brigg Town FC CIC
• Peter Cook - Limestone Rangers FC
• Karen Lloyd - Crosby United FC
• David Cass - Crofts Estate Agents Youth Football League - Grimsby
• Les Harrison - Crofts Estate Agents Youth Football League - Grimsby
• David Bell - Crofts Estate Agents Youth Football League - Grimsby
• Geoff Holmes - Gainsborough Trinity FC

Outstanding Contribution to Refereeing: Michael Brader 

The Lioness Award: Carole Simpson - Greenbank FC & QuickLine Lincolnshire Women & Girls' Football League

New Volunteer of the Year: Katie Oldfield - Cleethorpes Town Ladies

Pygott & Crone Special Recognition Award: Phillip Skayman - Hughsie Charity FC

The FA's 50 Year Award: David Cooke - Gainsborough & District Sunday Football League

The Meritorious Award: Roger Gell - Boston & District Football League

Download the Candid images here

Download the Official Photoshoot images here

For more information on Lincolnshire FA's Grassroots Football Awards, please contact Zack Leader on Zack.Leader@lincolnshirefa.com.

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