Lincolnshire FA is delighted to congratulate Ron Westerman, founder of the Mid Lincs County Youth League, on being awarded an MBE for his outstanding services to sport.

Mr. Westerman, 86, has dedicated nearly 60 years to developing youth football in Lincolnshire and has been recognised for his extraordinary contribution to the game.

Mr. Westerman launched the Mid Lincs County Youth League in 1986, stepping in when two local youth leagues were struggling to stay afloat. Despite his full-time role as a sports manager at Birchwood Leisure Centre, he volunteered as chairman of the newly formed league, helping it flourish. Under his leadership, the league has grown from its initial 75 teams to an impressive 480 teams today, making it the largest youth football league in Lincolnshire.

Recalling the moment he received the letter informing him of the honour, Mr. Westerman admitted, "I initially thought it was a scam. When I looked at it again, I was shocked, to say the least."

A former non-league footballer for Lincoln United, Mr. Westerman has left a lasting legacy, not only in football but also in the community. Reflecting on his decades of dedication, he said, "I love seeing kids enjoying themselves. People will stop me now, people I don't recognise, and say, 'I can remember when you took me here.' I get a lot of satisfaction from that. I even have people coming up to me and telling me that their grandfather played for me."

Ronald Westerman’s story is an inspiring example of how passionate individuals can make a lasting impact on grassroots football and beyond. His MBE is a well-deserved recognition of his tireless work in promoting youth sport and enriching the lives of thousands of young players across the county.

On behalf of everyone at Lincolnshire FA, congratulations to Mr. Westerman on this incredible achievement!

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