The Hampshire FA Grassroots Football Awards recognises and celebrates the people and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to grassroots football in Hampshire as nominated by their grassroots workforce and communities, or due to their length of service. The awards ceremony will take place once again at the Hilton Southampton – Utilita Bowl on Saturday 27th of July 2024 and this year is sponsored by Spond.  

Grassroots football in Hampshire currently supports hundreds of thousands of diverse players, coaches and referees. None of this would be possible, however, without the tremendous and selfless contribution of volunteers that willingly offer their time and support. Volunteers are the very backbone of the growth, development, and sustainability of the game, and without them this simply wouldn’t be possible. As such the evening ceremony is there to celebrate every individual, club, and league winner for their contributions and achievements across the season and to conclude the season itself.   

We would like to extend congratulations to all award winners and wish to thank all the individuals that have taken the time to put forward nominations this season.  

Hampshire FA Service to Football Awards
A Hampshire FA Service to Football Award is made for 25 years’ continuous or aggregated voluntary service to the county and each winner is nominated by their Local Divisional Football Association. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 
 

Rev Mike Pusey 
Rev Mike Pusey has served the football club in Aldershot as Chaplain since the mid-1970s. He has always considered this role core to his responsibilities as Minister of one of the churches in the area. Until his retirement 2 seasons ago, he visited players before their training session on a Friday morning to give advice and encouragement, as well as delving into conversations of life outside of football. He also made himself available to serve the management, staff, and supporters of the club in as many ways as he could. Rev Mike is still around in his retirement to serve and remains a loyal season ticket holder and an ardent fan. 
 

Nigel Welch 
Nigel has been involved with Wey Valley FC since 1993 and serves the club to the present day. It began when his son started at Alexandra Colts FC and promptly ended up with Nigel running the U7’s team. Currently, he is Club Welfare Officer for the youth sides at Wey Valley FC and is also the Manager & Secretary for the open age teams. Additionally, since the 2004/05 season, he serves the North East Hampshire Youth League, overseeing the league’s website and IT (Information Technology) requirements. In 2008, he took on the role of League Treasurer and in 2019 became Chairman. Nigel joined the Aldershot & District Saturday Football League also in 2019 as a league rep and transitioned to Chairman in 2023. He is a current member of the Aldershot Divisional FA. Nigel had previously served as a Hampshire FA Council Member and was also on several committees from 2010-2012. 

Thura Win 
Thura KT Win has been a Council Member of the Aldershot Divisional FA since 1996, was Chair from 2005 to 2009 and has been President since 2009. Thura was previously on Hampshire FA’s Council from 2000 to 2013, served as a director for the county FA from 2002 to 2013 and was Deputy Chair from 2005 to 2013. He also served on the Hampshire FA Community Trust in various roles including as a Trustee, Director and Chair from 2008 to 2012.Thura is the current President & Chair of the Southern Region Women’s Football League, which is a Tier 5 & 6 League in the Women’s Pyramid. Nationally, Thura is an FA Council Member and has served on many boards and committees over the years as Chair and Vice-Chair. Internationally, Thura is a UEFA Match Delegate and is a member of the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body. He is also a FIFA Match Commissioner. 

Babs Pritchard 
Babs has been involved in youth and men’s football. She is currently Vice Chairperson of Bournemouth FA and is currently the Treasurer of West Howe FC. Babs volunteers on weekends at Fernheath which comprises of youth and adult football. 

Chris Jeremy 
Chris founded Blue Star United FC and has served in the roles of Secretary and Manager and then just as Secretary in 1978. In 1982 he joined Andover New Street as Reserve Team Secretary and eventually joined Andover Town in 1992 as Club Secretary where he served for 18 years. Eventually, he progressed into the role of Director. His highlight was during 2000/01 when Andover Town secured the treble of the Wessex League Championship, Hampshire Senior Cup and North Hants Senior Cup. After that point, Chris resigned as Secretary of Andover Town FC. In 2010 he joined the Peter Houseman Youth League as Secretary and remained in that position until 2018, before leaving to take up the secretarial position of the North Hants Divisional FA, a position that he still holds today. Chris also served on the Hampshire FA Council for a year.  

Hampshire FA Referee Service to Football Awards
A Hampshire FA Referee Service to Football Award is made to referees and assessors who have been registered and active in the county for 25 years. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Colin Dawkins 
Colin got into refereeing ‘completely by accident.’ He was a Club Secretary and a Manager of a Sunday league side. However, one Sunday morning the referee from the home side did not turn up and he was asked if he could step in. The manager of the opposition agreed as he said he would ‘be fair.’ Colin refereed the game and thoroughly enjoyed it and in 1996, enrolled on the referee’s course. He has been refereeing for 27 years on Saturday afternoons, and for Sunday leagues over the years and spent several years on the Hampshire League as an Assistant Referee. Colin now referees on Sunday mornings and is also an Appointment Secretary for two different leagues. He thoroughly enjoys refereeing and appointing and helping younger referees on their refereeing journey. 

Chris Hilling 
Chris started playing football at the age of 15 for his school in Hartley Wintney. He progressed to the Village Lads League and then into adult football playing initially for Hartley Wintney FC and then various Saturday and Sunday teams in the Winchester League. Chris continued playing football until his mid-forties. Wishing to remain in the game, he chose to take up refereeing which friends likened to a ‘poacher-turning-gamekeeper'. He has refereed ladies, youth, and adult games and for a time was officiating Saturdays, Sundays and Midweek games but sadly age restrictions prevented him from progressing up the refereeing ladder. Currently, Chris still referees adult football matches on Sunday mornings. He has and continues to hold various administrative roles including Chairman of the Winchester and District Football League.  

Adrian Redding 
Adrian started refereeing in the 1997/98 season while he was running local Saturday and Sunday league teams. He decided then to commit himself to refereeing just one season later and progressed through the promotional stages. After a few seasons, he secured his Level 5 qualification. He cites refereeing and assisting on the Hampshire and Wessex football leagues as some of his ‘memorable highlights’ in the game.  

 
Hampshire FA Certificate of Commendation
A Hampshire FA Certificate of Commendation is presented to an individual for 10 years of additional service following the award of a Hampshire FA Service to Football or Hampshire FA Referee Service to Football Award.  

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Phil Blakey 

Phil started out like many others, taking on the role of Club Secretary when there was "nobody else to do it" back in 1977 and continued to serve several leagues over the following years including the Aldershot Saturday and Sunday Leagues, Southern Region Women's League as their Fixtures Secretary and the FA Women's National League as Discipline Secretary and later as Vice-Chairman. He returned to help run clubs at Fleet Spurs in 2013 in various roles, Hartley Wintney as Secretary in 2019, and joined Fleet Town FC as Secretary at the end of 2021. Although he has moved to Dorset, Phil still maintains his links with Fleet Town and continues to support the Aldershot Divisional FA as a Life Vice President, a role he has served in for 20 years. 
 

Gary Parsons 
Gary registered as a referee on 15th of July 1985 and achieved Class 1 status in 1989. He joined the Bournemouth Referees Association in 1987 and held the post of “draw promoter” from 1987 until 1992. Gary was Vice Chairman in 1997 until 2000, Chairman from 2000 until 2003, President from 2003 – 2006 and became a Life Vice President in 2011. He joined the Hampshire County Referees Association in 1989 and is still a current member. Gary has been involved in the Local Referees Association Committee from 2009 to the present day and was also an Assessor from 2006 until the end of November 2011. Today, Gary is an active walking footballer and plays for Bransgore Over 70s Walking Football Club and Christchurch Beachcombers Walking Football Club. 

Jenny Gearing 
Jenny has been involved with adult men's football until recently when she stepped down as Secretary of East Cowes Sports FC. Jenny is still involved in football as a director and is Secretary/Treasurer of the company that lease/own the facilities where the club is based. The club has 2 adult men's football teams, as well as 3 youth football sides and the ladies football team. Jenny is still actively involved in the club and ensures the ground is well maintained and prepared for training and matches and additionally ensures that there are no clashes with fixtures. She enjoys her involvement in the grassroots game and hopes to continue for many more seasons.  

Edward Sheath 
Edward started playing football aged 16 in the Portsmouth North End League before moving to London and playing in the London Insurance Offices League. Following a move to the Isle of Wight, he joined Binstead FC and played there for several seasons before transferring to AFC Wootton in the IOW Saturday League. Edward played for several seasons and eventually took on the role as Manager of the club. During this latter stage he was persuaded by one, Charlie Wickett, to join the IOW Saturday League Management Committee where he served as a member for 50 years. In that time, he served in the role of Chairman and then Vice Chairman of the IOW Divisional FA. 

Bryan Clarke 
Bryan signed for British Rail in the Hampshire League and continued until the parent company decided to withdraw. He then signed for Fair Oak until 1969 and joined Pirelli General, retiring in 1980. He was persuaded by the late Norman White to join the committee at Pirelli and being an employee, this seemed to be a natural progression at the time. Bryan became the Manager of the company’s team in the National Cable Makers Cup Competition and additionally managed various Pirelli teams. He was nominated and elected to the Southampton FA and the Southampton Saturday Football League, where he still serves as Deputy Chair. Bryan has been a member of Hampshire FA since 1998 and is a Life Vice President. He served on the County Cup Committee as well as the Discipline Panel and from 2010 to 2021, the Hampshire FA Discipline Committee. He is a founding member of the Hampshire Premier Football League and served as Deputy Chair for several years. He was appointed a Life Vice President in 2023. 

Geoff Salter 
Geoff first became involved in schools’ football in Southampton in 1964 and became active in District and County football soon after, holding various positions over the years. In 1971, he became the County School’s Competition Secretary and then County Secretary/Treasurer from 1977 until 2015. Geoff served on the Hampshire Youth FA Council until it merged with the Hampshire FA in 2000. By then, he was also sitting on the Hampshire FA and Southampton FA Councils and was an active member of the Disciplinary Committee. Eventually he became a Hampshire FA Life Vice-President. Geoff took up refereeing in 1978 and progressed through the ranks. He ran the line in 3 U15 Schoolboy's internationals including England v Scotland at Wembley in 1984, where Fran Benali was the England striker. Geoff can still be seen supporting Southampton and Hampshire School representative teams around the County.

Hampshire FA Referee Awards

A Hampshire FA Referee Award is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to refereeing during the 2023/24 season. These are decided by members of the Hampshire FA Referees' Committee with the Hampshire FA CEO, Neil Cassar and the Hampshire FA Referee Development Manager, Andy Moisey.  

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Colin Miles BEM
Colin has been involved in football for the past 65 years. He moved to Hampshire in 1978 and after playing locally for a while, became a regular spectator at the Dell. On one Saturday evening, Colin noticed an advert in the “Pink” for a referee's course and so the journey began in the world of refereeing. Colin signed up and qualified as a referee in December 1983. He progressed through the classes and achieved Class 1 status in 1987. He has been an active member of the referee's association and has served as an Appointment Secretary for over thirty years. Additionally, Colin has served on the Local Area Referees Committee and Hampshire FA Referees’ Committee and was Chair of the Referees’ Focus Group. 

Tracey Bertram 
Tracey has been a Referee Appointment Secretary of the Mid Solent Youth Football League for 4 years and additionally appoints referees to the Hampshire Girls Youth Football League. Tracey is also a mentor for new referees and offers help, encouragement, and guidance to help support them on their refereeing journeys. She has supported all referees, both young and senior, and has travelled locally around the county to offer mentoring support. She is proud to have supported so many individuals in the county and hopes to continue being a rock of support so that they can overcome any barriers and flourish on their refereeing journeys.   

Eddie Lavery 
Eddie played men's football in Northern Ireland for 13 years and was part of a team that went onto win the IFA Junior cup. He played for, and then player-managed, a men's team in Southend-on-Sea for 21 years and took the team from Div 7 to Div 1 in 12 years, winning the Essex Junior Cup. On move to Southampton in 2001, he took up refereeing local Saturday & Sunday leagues and the Wessex line. He retired from active refereeing in 2017 due to injury and began coaching/mentoring new referees at the Saints Academy, supporting hundreds of new referees. Eddie is immensely proud when he sees the officials advancing and progressing in their careers and enjoying what they are doing. He is honoured to play a part on their journey by offering guidance, support, and encouragement along the way. 

Joe Crockett 
Joe started his refereeing journey in 2017 and shortly after joined the Referee Development Group in Portsmouth. Joe highly commends the group for their support and mentorship, citing fellow members, Chris James and Kevin Moore, as two that have helped and inspired him on his journey. 7 years down the line, Joe is now a Level 4 referee as well as a coach in the development group, supporting over 30 referees in Portsmouth to progress up the refereeing ladder. This season he has been asked to be the new Mentor Officer in Portsmouth as well as the League Appointment Secretary for the Mid Solent Youth League. Joe's aim for this season is to retain and develop as many referees in Portsmouth as possible.   

Chloe-Ann Small 
Chloe-Ann qualified as a referee in 2015 and progressed to Level 4 in the men's pathway and 2W and 1WAR in the women's pathway. She has been fortunate enough to officiate in youth international fixtures and has been involved in two major cup finals as well. The highlight of her career was being selected as an Assistant Referee for the FA Women's Cup Final at Wembley to a record-breaking crowd of 77,390 and with VAR being used for the first time in a live women's domestic fixture! 

Cameron Davis 
Cameron qualified as a referee in February 2018 with the intention of earning some extra money around his playing commitments as a 14-year-old child. He fell in love with refereeing and gave up playing shortly after to focus solely on his refereeing career. This is a choice he has not regretted, having moved up from level 7 to 4 in the space of 18 months and having the opportunity to referee in Spain and Paris alongside numerous Premier League and EFL grounds - not to mention numerous prestigious appointments to highly significant fixtures and various awards gained over the years. Cameron also plays a big part in the development of referees, through coaching, mentoring, observing and tutoring. Cameron has played a huge part in the development and progression of referees and is delighted to see the impact he has made within the refereeing community. 

Hampshire FA Fair Play Awards
A Hampshire FA Fair Play Award recognises the clubs within each region/sector of grassroots football in Hampshire with the best discipline record for the 2023/24 season. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Minley Royals FC 
Aldershot - Adult Male  
Minley Royals FC play in the Aldershot & Camberley Sunday Football League. The club was founded by brothers Robert Harding and Jake Kiddell in 2023 with the vision to create a competitive team that plays in the local league, uniting a ‘group of mates’ in the process. Due to high demands of interest, the club will look to expand and include a possible reserves side in the new season. The team, although enjoy a competitive game or two, wish to retain their social and casual status, inviting anyone who wants to play to join them, have fun, socialise, and enjoy a great game of football. 

Church Hill United FC  
Bournemouth - Adult Male   
Church Hill United FC was formed in 2021 and is now entering its fourth season of men’s football, playing in the M.A. Hart Bournemouth Football League. The club prides itself on always trying their best to honour and respect the rules of play both on and off the pitch. These values are fully embedded throughout the set-up and furthermore is at the forefront of the club’s philosophy that is shared and respected by all members.   

Ryde Saints FC 
Isle of Wight - Adult Male 
Ryde Saints FC was formed in 1993 by Dr Desmond Murphy as an addition to the church youth club that he was running at the time. The club was formed to provide opportunities for young players to progress into adult football and started with the ethos that 'Everyone is welcome, no matter what their ability is’. The club has been growing ever since its formation, introducing a reserves side, and very recently ran an ‘A side’ for several years. The club boasts an impressive youth set up of 13 teams with a ‘community feel’, with the same ethos and values instilled by that of Dr Desmond Murphy. In 2017, the club won an Isle of Wight ‘Club of the Year' award, awarded by Hampshire FA and have been lucky enough to win multiple cup competitions in their time, including the Hampshire Junior A Cup in 2016. 

Basingstoke Boars FC 
North Hants - Adult Male 
Basingstoke Boars FC was collectively formed two seasons ago by Sam Hayman, Liam Fitzpatrick, and Ben Bamwood. These very same founders did in fact play for another recipient of this very same award (so as you can see, they are very well-behaved people!). The club’s name is a nod to American sports teams, and the ethos of the team has been to have fun with friends, strive to improve and to play and enjoy the game.  The club plays in the Basingstoke & District Sunday Football League. 

Pompey Chimes FC 
Portsmouth - Adult Male 
Pompey Chimes FC played in Division 3 in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons of the City of Portsmouth Sunday league. Secretary James has had a lifelong passion for football, starting from a young age when he joined his local youth league. He was the team captain at school and led the team to two championships. Over the years, he progressed through various levels of competition, showcasing his skills. Today, since completing his coaching certifications, he has been more involved in training youth teams, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation of players. 

FC Phoenix 
Southampton – Adult Male 
FC Phoenix was formed in 2022 by a group of staff at Cantell School and their close friends, subsequently joining a league at the start of the 2022/23 season. The team was formed with the purpose of “getting together to enjoy the beautiful game,” to keep fit and socialise on Sundays. This ethos has carried the team through two seasons, first finishing as close runners-up in Division 8 and then, after moving up three divisions in Division 5 and finishing 7th. The group have always prioritised the enjoyment of the game primarily, while making the most of the opportunity to keep playing competitively into their 30s and in some cases, 40s. Everyone treats each other, including every opponent and all officials with the utmost of respect, are disciplined, and maintain their integrity and honesty throughout. It is a privilege to receive this award as a reflection that this ethos remains valued and important in today’s game. 

Wey Valley Youth FC 
Aldershot - Youth Male  
Wey Valley FC has been providing local community football in the Whitehill & Bordon area since 1960 although up until the mid-1990s the club was known as Alexandra Colts FC. Whilst football has changed immeasurably over the last 60+ years, Wey Valley has and continues to be at the forefront of the grassroots game with several rewarding accolades and is part of the England FA Accreditation scheme. The club has a committed workforce of volunteers and dedicated parents which has enabled it to develop and flourish over the years. The club has also supported several FA initiatives. The coaching workforce is made up of managers, coaches and club officers who are all FA qualified in their respective roles and duties. The club’s ethos is to ensure that football remains fun, respectful, and accessible to all. Wey Valley FC are honoured to receive a Fair Play Award, making it the fourth time they have received this award since 2010. This is a testament to the club’s values. 
 
Fordingbridge Turks Youth FC 
Bournemouth - Youth Male 
Fordingbridge Turks FC was founded in 1868 making it the oldest football club in Hampshire and one of the oldest clubs in the world. This has been an exciting year for the club who, with support from Hampshire FA and the Football Foundation, have celebrated the opening of a brand new 3G facility. Fordingbridge Turks is committed to providing a safe, friendly environment with opportunities for children of all backgrounds and abilities to enjoy being part of a club that recognises and values each child, from minis up to Under 18s. The club exists for its players, who play football for fun and enjoyment, providing a sense of belonging and positivity that goes beyond any individual score line or title. The committee is delighted to receive this Fair Play Award on behalf of the players and volunteers who work hard every week to provide a positive playing environment for all. 
 
Bembridge Youth FC 
Isle of Wight - Youth Male 
Bembridge Youth FC is an England Accredited club that provides a fun, challenging & high-quality environment for children of all ages to learn and love football, develop good principles through sport and build lifelong friendships. The club are immensely proud to have won the Hampshire FA Fair Play Award for the second time in 3 years. It truly is testament to the hard work our volunteer coaches put in with our young teams to play the beautiful game in the right spirit. Congratulations to all our young players for always being committed, for playing hard and doing their best and for playing the game fairly and respectfully throughout. 

 
Broughton Youth FC 

North Hants - Youth Male 
Broughton Youth FC are a growing club with 8 teams from U18s down to the U6’s Play Phase. The youth side of the club has recently linked with the club’s adult teams to create a pathway through to open age football, as well as an FA approved Wildcats Centre for girls aged 5-11. The club is hoping to have their first all-girls squad at U7 for the coming season. The Chair and committee have driven coach education within the club, ensuring that all coaches are appropriately equipped to provide a great environment and experience for all children, irrespective of ability or experience. Broughton Youth FC are proud to take a player-centric approach to all, ensuring that everyone in the club is given the best football experience. This award confirms that the club are on the right path. 
 

Whiteley Wanderers Youth FC  
Portsmouth - Youth Male 
Whiteley Wanderers Youth FC was founded in 1998 by Katie and Stuart Gray. It began as a single youth team fuelled by passion and a love for the game. The foundation rests on the principles of teamwork, dedication, and the belief that football is more than just a sport—it’s a journey we embark on altogether. The club’s journey through the years is one of leadership, growth, and recognition. Evolving as a single team to a proud community, achieving Community Charter status in 2011 and being honoured as the Charter Standard Community Club of the Year by Hampshire FA in the 2014/15 season. Whiteley Wanderers Youth FC has grown, now boasting over 30 youth teams, including 10 girls’ teams, 3 adult men’s teams, and more than 90 volunteer managers, coaches, helpers, and committee members. The club’s aim is to continue expanding their offering, welcoming more members into their family, and fostering an environment where every player, regardless of age or skill level, can thrive. 

Wellow Youth FC  
Southampton - Youth Male 
Wellow Youth FC was set up to provide opportunities for children of all abilities to participate in football in the hope of inspiring the next generation. The club educates its youth by teaching and incorporating life skills into their learning and furthermore, encourages children to lead healthy and active lifestyles. The club prioritises fun and enjoyment for all, ensuring that this is at the forefront of their teaching. In 2021/22 the club was awarded the Joyce Singleton Award from the Eastleigh & District Mini Soccer League as ‘Club of the Year’, something the club is also immensely proud of. Last season, Wellow Youth FC scooped the Fair Play Award for the Southampton – Youth Male category and have done the double again this season, demonstrating the values that align with the club. 

Winchester City Flyers Girls FC 
County Award - Youth Female 
Winchester City Flyers FC is an FA Charter Standard club that play in the Hampshire Girls Youth Football League and Southern Region Women’s Football League. The club was formed in 1996 and comprises of over 24 teams including 21 girls’ teams (Under 8 - Under 18) and 3 ladies’ teams, making it one of if not the largest all-female club in Hampshire. Additionally, there is a thriving Wildcats set-up that is going from strength to strength with each passing season. The club welcomes all girls, ladies, and volunteers to become part of the Flyer's family and to support the ever-growing set-up. Winchester City Flyers FC takes child welfare very seriously, ensuring that through its set-up, the environment is fun, enjoyable, positive, and safe for all participants. 

Gosport Borough Ladies FC 
County Award - Adult Female 
Gosport Borough Ladies FC was formed in 2000 and has three teams that proudly compete in the Hampshire County Women’s Football League. This season alone has seen 60+ diverse players, proudly wearing the club jersey. The club has had mothers play alongside their daughters, youth players that have transitioned through the ranks to play, as well as players that have come and tried the beautiful game for the first time. Gosport Borough Ladies FC has seen players willing to test themselves and push themselves to the limit. The club is proud to have a diverse mix of players, of all different abilities, play with a smile on their face and enjoying their football. The players have shown exemplary conduct which is something that the club staunchly encourages and champions, both on and off the pitch. 

Hampshire FA Grass Pitch(es) of the Year Award

A Hampshire FA Grass Pitch(es) of the Year Award recognises site(s) that have achieved a ‘good’ PitchPower report for the 2023/24 season. The winners are selected by a panel of industry experts, including our partners and co-sponsors of this award MW Turfcare and Fleet Line Markers as well as Hampshire FA’s facilities team.  

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Littleton Recreation Ground 
Littleton Junior FC was formed in 1974 and is based at Littleton Recreation Ground. The club provides coaching and competitive football from under 6’s through to under 18’s across 42 teams and with over 600 players. The club’s ethos comprises of 3 key F’s: Fun, Friendship and Football. The club believes that fun should be the primary factor in all things and that if you are enjoying football, then you are going to be better at it, naturally. The club is fully inclusive and welcoming of children of all ages and abilities. Littleton Recreation Ground is also widely regarded as one of the best facilities local to the area and regularly garners glowing reviews from visitors. The space is diverse and consists of 3x grass pitches, play areas, outdoor exercise equipment and ample parking.  
 
North Baddesley Recreation Ground 
Glen Fielder has been involved in football most of his life. When his son joined Baddesley Park Youth FC he found himself wanting to make a difference. The FA Grass Maintenance Grant has allowed him to do just that. The club are fortunate to be able to improve their pitches with the help of The FA and the GMA (Grounds Management Association). Glen finds it highly rewarding to be involved in the improvement of the pitches at North Baddesley and to learn the techniques that make a difference and improve the site. Like most grassroots clubs, they understand the challenges of balancing game-time and pitch quality but with the right knowledge and a good maintenance plan it is possible to ensure football can be played all season with minimal interruption. 

Hampshire FA 3G ATP Pitch of the Year Award
A Hampshire FA 3G ATP Pitch of the Year Award recognises the very best artificial playing surfaces across Hampshire. The award recipients are selected by a panel of industry experts, including our partners and sponsors of this award, Technical Surfaces, and Hampshire FA’s facilities team. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Testbourne Community School 
Testbourne's 3G Pitch was officially opened in March 2019. It is a much valued and much used resource for the community and is hugely beneficial in developing grassroots sport at a local level. The pitch provides the school’s PE Department with a first-class facility, enabling activities to take place in all weathers. The local community and sports organisations enjoy the opportunity to play on a FA registered pitch and provide sport and physical activity for all. Partner clubs including Whitchurch FC and Overton Youth FC are fantastic clubs to work alongside and their membership numbers in both girls’ and boys’ teams have increased vastly over the last 3 years. The Testbourne Site Team are committed to ensuring that the pitch is well maintained all year round and the school and partner clubs are incredibly grateful for their efforts. 
 

Horndean Technology College 
The 3G pitch at Horndean Technology College (HTC) was built in 2021 and was funded by the Football Foundation, East Hampshire, and HTC, replacing an older facility. The pitch is situated within the school grounds and is maintained by a site team and sports coordinator. The pitch has been a great asset to the local area and is fully booked on evenings throughout the week and at weekends. The school has several strong relationships with the football teams who also use the facility. Additionally, annual meetings are held so that the clubs can update the school on their developments, ensuring there is a consistent stream of support for the many male, female and youth teams within their set-ups. Horndean Technology College is extremely proud of their facility and the many opportunities the site has given to the local community.  

Hampshire FA Partnership of the Year Awards
A Hampshire FA Partnership of the Year Award recognises successful outcomes achieved by working with a commercial partner or sponsor during the season. This award is sponsored by Paris Smith Solicitors. We want to thank our partners and judging panel for this year’s award, including Peter Cooper Motor Group and Paris Smith Solicitors. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Solent Sports FC & Spond  
Solent Sports FC and Spond have formed a strong partnership which has seen the club become one of the biggest independent football organisations in Hampshire with over 5,000 registered members and Spond has reached over 1million UK users…staggering numbers for both! Both organisations have worked together to make improvements which impact the wider football community by making an app which is accessible to all. 

Shanklin FC & Shanklin Voluntary Youth & Community Centre 
Shanklin FC was formed in 1888 and comprises of youth, women’s, and men's sides. The club is family-oriented and has the community at the heart of all that it does. Shanklin FC has supported the Island's prison side, as well as local voluntary groups and organisations, provided facilities for the Air Ambulance and much more. Shanklin FC has maintained a strong partnership with Shanklin Voluntary Youth & Community Centre, with countless players, managers, coaches, and volunteers sharing that journey and fostering lifelong friendships. The opportunity to give back to the game that we all love and wish to nurture for future generations to enjoy is a shared belief throughout the entire club.  

Hampshire FA Academy Awards
A Hampshire FA Academy Award recognises outstanding accomplishments achieved by the students on the programme during the 2023/24 season. The Goal of the Season Award is sponsored by our Official Video Technology Partners, Veo. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Kyle Winbourne 
Kyle started playing football when he was six years old in the first Hedge End under 7's team. After that he was selected through trials to join the Matt Le Tissier football academy which he got involved in between the ages of 8 to 13. Kyle now plays for Colden Common’s development team and thoroughly enjoys it. He was also given the opportunity to play for their first team. Kyle enjoys playing football and this passion led to him joining the Hampshire FA Football Academy programme. He enjoys the programme and feels it has helped him to improve his overall game, skills, and his overall knowledge about football. 

Christian Cardoso 
Christian is a first-year student that plays in central midfield. At the age of 9, he began to learn the beautiful game and worked tirelessly to ensure he was a standout performer at the clubs he played for. Christian played for Portsmouth University’s U16’s team and contributed to a total of 66 assists in his two seasons at the club. Transitioning into a midfielder from a striker, he went onto play for Jubilee 77’s U16’s team and instantly became a key player in the team. He has worked hard to improve all areas of his game and his professionalism, dedication, and ability to learn and adapt is evident by what he has achieved in a short space of time.  

Olivia Fryer 
Olivia only started playing football 4 seasons ago. Her progress has been phenomenal which is down to her drive and attitude; she always gives 100% effort whether that’s at training or matches. Her 1st year at the Hampshire FA Academy has seen her improve even more with the support of the coaches. She also played an integral part in Stoneham U18s winning the Hants Div 1 this season with a 100% record and also the league cup. Additionally, Olivia has been rewarded with the captaincy for the upcoming U18s season and has secured a place in the Stoneham Ladies reserves team, which is a testament to her commitment and attitude. This award is the icing on the cake for Olivia after a fantastic year. She continues to make her family extremely proud.

Mawgan Conroy-Helstrip 
The main reason Mawgan studied football so fastidiously, is simply because he is so passionate about the game. Whilst attending school, he considered football as an essential part of his daily life, initially playing at lunchtimes with friends. Then quickly progressing to a team shortly after. Mawgan found it especially beneficial during covid and lockdown, when it played a crucial role for his mental and physical health. He feels he "owes" the game a dedication that is second to none and has even been known to compromise his revision on occasion to focus on his football. Mawgan is extremely grateful to Hampshire FA for helping him improve as a player and for expanding his knowledge of coaching. He wishes he could’ve been present here this evening, but he is in LA California at Stanton Uni beginning his football scholarship. He wishes to thank Bronwyn, Stella as well as Academy coaches Nathan and Joe. He hopes everyone has a fantastic season ahead! 

Imogen Mullins 
After attending soccer school from the age of 4-6, Imogen joined Hythe and Dibden Youth FC and played for Eclipse from the age of 10. The team has recently played their final game for the under 18s.  Imogen has now started her senior playing career and is committed to pushing and driving herself further and to a higher standard. Currently, she is a student on the Hampshire FA Academy and will shortly be progressing to her 3rd year on the programme. 

Hampshire FA Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Heroes Awards
A Hampshire FA EDI Heroes Award recognises people and organisations that have carried out extraordinary work to better support EDI within Hampshire’s grassroots football community during the 2023/24 season.  

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Rowshonara Reza & Cross Cultural Women’s Group 
Rowshonara is the project lead for the Cross-Cultural Women's Group (CCWG), a group run by Portsmouth City Council's Independence and Wellbeing team. The CCWG provides support and social opportunities for women from diverse ethnic backgrounds who may be socially isolated or are vulnerable due to a variety of factors, such as: poor physical or mental health, experience of domestic violence, or if they are from marginalised communities, including refugees and/or those seeking asylum. The group is a vibrant and inclusive community, welcoming women from all backgrounds and faiths. The group provides a vital space for non-English-speaking women to connect with their local community and gives them an opportunity to participate in a wide range of physical activities, including walking football sessions supported by Hampshire FA. Rowshonara’s interest and commitment to supporting such projects is inspired by her own childhood experiences, where both her and her sisters were held back from participating in sports and activities due to social and cultural constraints. She firmly believes that offering social support and creative opportunities can lead to healing, good mental health, and emotional wellbeing for all women. 

Ma Khelchu 
Ma Khelchu translates to "I'll play" in Nepalese. The group was established in 2019 to encourage and create a safe space for Nepali girls and women to play sports. The group introduced football in 2022 which skyrocketed in popularity. Their first football tournament marked a historic milestone for the Nepalese community, as the group were the first women's team to participate in the Gurkha Cup in its 20-year history. Ma Khelchu later transitioned into the Play On League in Stoneham. The group came 2nd in their first ever league and created many fond memories along the way. In May 2023, Ma Khelchu hosted the Sewa Cup, the first-ever women's football tournament in the Nepalese community, with the support of their sponsors. The tournament featured five teams from diverse backgrounds and consisted of beginners and recreational players. Ma Khelchu’s blue team won the tournament and has since won the Gurkha Cup, the Hampshire FA Hope Tournament and the BFEST Cup. Ma Kelchu also remains unbeaten in the Basingstoke Play On League and won their first league title. 

Kenny Fong 
Kenny introduced and organised weekly football sessions in 2022 to engage the Hong Kong community in the Southampton, Portsmouth, and Winchester areas. Sessions started with 15 members and has since grown to over 60 members, playing regularly, and some of which have started football for the very first time. With the help of Hampshire FA, the group have managed to organise their first ever Lunar Chinese New Year football match in Southampton this year. Kenny is hoping through football, the community will continue to grow leading to more football teams in the future. On a personal level, he is delighted to be recognised for the work and to play the beautiful game in the UK! He wants to thank you everyone that was involved and God bless you all. 

Louis Dewar 
Louis is profoundly deaf and has been playing football for disability teams since he was 11 years old. In 2010, he started at a deaf school and played deaf football and has since played with teams from Brighton and Exeter. Deaf players rely on visual cues and communicate with sign language and Louis was committed to setting up a deaf football team in Hampshire. With help from Hampshire FA, the deaf football team play at Stoneham Lane Football Complex and are part of AFC Stoneham, a fully diverse and inclusive set-up. Numbers are progressing and Louis regards this as a fantastic achievement to see deaf players, playing and being supported in Hampshire. He has met some new deaf players and wishes to give a shout-out to Rob who is a great coach at the club and who has learnt sign language in the process.  

Hampshire FA Youth Engagement Project of the Year Award
A Hampshire FA Youth Engagement Project of the Year Award recognises set-ups that have actively engaged, encouraged, and championed their youth members to plan and deliver an activity, event, or initiative during the 2023/24 season. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Petersfield Town FC 
Young Referee Initiative 
Petersfield Town FC runs 45 youth teams from U8s through to U18s, and men's and women's senior teams. The club aims to provide football for all ages and abilities, in a safe, fun, and supportive environment. However, like many clubs they have experienced a shortage of qualified referees for youth matches in recent seasons. In response, the club set up the Petersfield Youth Referees Initiative. The club helped organise a Hampshire FA referees’ course in Petersfield last July for 24 local referees and the club’s Referee Secretary Martin Ewen held meetings at the clubhouse for young referees and their parents, to discuss and share their experiences. Petersfield Town FC set about improving the match-day experience for their young referees, displaying respect notices, and purchasing hi-vis jackets for club officials to wear while observing matches. Of the 24 youth referees that attended the course, 22 have retained and are still actively refereeing matches.

Hampshire FA Media Projects Programme Awards
A Hampshire FA Media Projects Programme Award recognises students that have successfully delivered a media project to a high standard and on behalf of the county football association during the 2023/24 season.   

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 
 
Project: Hampshire FA Grounds & Maintenance Forum 
Students involved: Callum Pearman  
University: Solent University (Southampton) 
This media project focused on Hampshire FA’s annual Grounds & Maintenance Forum that was held at Stoneham Lane Football Complex. The forum is designed with grassroots clubs firmly in mind and consists of a series of indoor presentations and outdoor demonstrations, delivered by Hampshire FA’s commercial partners and industry experts. The media project focused on taking a snapshot of everything the forum has to offer and included interviews with a variety of stakeholders. The video will be used to promote the forum and encourage more sign-ups, highlighting the partners involved and additionally, encouraging a stronger network of grounds teams.     

Project: Engaging Young Diverse People 
Students involved: Scarlett McCann & Heather Saas-Dennis 
University: University of Portsmouth 
The Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG) is an independent group within Hampshire FA who inspire, lead, and challenge the county FA’s progress towards becoming more diverse, inclusive, and accessible. The IAG’s main goal is to gain a better understanding of the communities that the county FA serves to help inform plans and the county FA strategy. To do this, a series of community events focusing on various topics (such as disability, race, gender etc) were delivered. The primary goal of this media project was to 1) give a voice to diverse young people within the county who are part of the football community and 2) to create content that young people will want to engage with. This media project helped to produce content that speaks to young people and additionally, engages more young people to join the community. 

 
Project: Football Academy Matchday Vlog 
Students involved: Chloe Boyne, Millie Payne, Chloe Jones & Jamie Oleszynski 
University: Solent University (Southampton) 
The purpose of this media project was to create a matchday vlog / documentary piece, focusing on a typical matchday in the Hampshire FA Academy. The piece would show the day through a ‘fly on the wall’ video (covering several episodes) feat the Academy including coaches, students / players, matchday preparation, match highlights, post-match talk and more. This project took its inspiration from ‘Bunch of Amateurs: Dorking Uncovered.’   

Project: Introducing King George V Football Complex 
Students involved: Callum Phillips & Harry Ince  
University: University of Portsmouth 
The purpose of this project was to introduce Hampshire FA’s new King George V Football Complex in Cosham, giving an insight into the site as a whole and the impact it has had, or will have, on the local community in the area. The students were tasked with creating a series of short videos highlighting the opening of the facility, with interviews conducted with a series of key stakeholders, as well as shoot days of the facility (inside and outside), and a matchday shoot of a club using the facility for their home matches. 

England Grassroots Football Awards
An England Grassroots Football Award celebrates individuals for their efforts, commitment and impact on the grassroots game. The award celebrates the diversity of the many football communities across England.  

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 
 
Daryl Griffiths 
Coach of the Year Award (Male Pathway) 
Daryl started coaching in 2003 whilst serving in the Royal Navy. He helped coach the ships’ football team and in 2005 took the FA Level 1 course to broaden his coaching knowledge. In 2016 his son started playing in U7’s football and eventually this led to Daryl setting up a new team whilst at Meon Milton Youth FC. Over the course of 3 seasons, the team developed with a solid group of committed young players. Due to work commitments and a relocation, Daryl joined as a coach for the U10’s at Hayling St Andrews FC where he remains to this day coaching the U15’s team. His passion for coaching continues and he is now on his UEFA B journey. Daryl regards his greatest reward is seeing the children turning up and enjoying their football.  

Steve Norris 
Coach of the Year Award (Female Pathway) 
Steve started coaching 6 years ago with his son's team and was delighted when his daughter (aged 4 at the time), decided she wanted to play too. She went to a mixed soccer school at the time and Steve helped coach the team. Due to high demand for girls’ football, Steve established an all-girls soccer school in 2020 which saw numbers grow rapidly. In the last 4 years Hythe has seen rapid growth, increasing from 30 to over 180 girls, enabling the formation of 10 new teams. At the heart of it is the enjoyment and love of the game! Steve still coaches the soccer school every week and enjoys coaching a variety of other girls' teams on other nights in the week. He is a member of the committee at Hythe and volunteers for the Hampshire Girls Youth Football League as a Divisional Representative. He loves everything to do with girls' football and is pleased it occupies most of his free time. 

Kallum Doe 
Coach of the Year Award (Disability Pathway) 
Kallum originally started visiting powerchair football sessions when his brother started playing and decided to volunteer as an assistant coach. Sadly, the lead coach passed away leaving the team without a replacement. Kallum stepped in and decided to take on the role to help keep the team going. The team have continued to thrive and went onto win the Southeast Powerchair Football League Division 2 with promotion to Division 1 next season. This season saw the team undefeated. The boys have worked tirelessly this season and together they have grown stronger. The legacy well and truly continues, and Kallum looks forward to continuing these accomplishments into season and beyond. 

Alan Gower 
Match Official of the Year Award 
Upon completion of his amateur football career in 2009, Alan took up the whistle and began refereeing to remain involved in the game he loved. Peaking as a Level 5 referee, he has embedded himself in grassroots football in Hampshire as the Referee Appointment Secretary for four leagues in the Portsmouth area. His passion for the local game also sees him as the Fixture Secretary for the Hampshire Premier League, a Referee Observer and Mentor while supporting the Royal Navy FA as the Referee Secretary. Although all these roles keep him occupied, he always has time for the promising referees rising through the pyramid, acting as the ‘fountain of knowledge’ of law, competition rules and general advice when it is sought. The true reflection of his character is that those he has helped still seek guidance and offer their refereeing skills to the grassroots leagues which Alan oversees even though they have reached greater heights in the pyramid. 

Jamie Linfield 
New Volunteer of the Year Award 
Jamie got involved in grassroots football in 2020 when his daughter first started playing. Due to high levels of interest, the club increased its provision and introduced a second team. Jamie decided to volunteer to help manage/coach the newly established team even though he had no previous coaching experience. He completed his Introduction to Coaching Football course in October 2022 and is currently undertaking his UEFA C licence. This journey wouldn't have been possible without the help and support of his wife Rachel and the wonderful parents in the team. He regards the team as being a true ‘football family’ and wishes to thank the sponsors, including Spice Lounge and 2 U Tyres for their unwavering support. 

Luke Mullen 
Bobby Moore Award
Luke has been involved in men's football since the age of 15 after starting his journey in the local leagues with Old Salesians and progressing to manager at age 17. Subsequently, he moved to play at Frimley Green in the Athenian League and then Cove in the Hants League. Luke joined Hartley Wintney in 1981 and was part of the CCFL league’s winning side of 1983. As his playing days drew to a close, he went onto play and manage the reserves. In 1991, Luke took over the management of the first team. The team reached the 3rd round of the FA Vase losing at home to Rothwell. As new managers were appointed, Luke transitioned into the administrative side of the game, undertaking secretarial duties and eventually took over as Chairman. His objective has always been the survival of the game at all levels within the club and which he hopes he has contributed significantly to. He cites that he could not however have achieved anything without the help of the amazing group of volunteers that keep the ship afloat. 

Bournemouth Walking Football Club 
Keeping Football Positive Award 
Bournemouth Walking Football Club was formed in 2019 to provide casual and competitive playing opportunities. The club has 150 male members plus a newly formed women's group of 50 members. The men's teams play in Dorset, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire leagues. Several players also play in regional teams, some of which have been capped for their country. The women’s team has completed their first season in the Hampshire league and next season will also compete in the newly formed Dorset league. The club has experienced rapid growth emphasising the popularity of walking football as one of the fastest growing sports worldwide. Bournemouth Walking Football Club is proud to offer an inclusive, safe and friendly environment for all to enjoy and reap the health benefits of the game.  

Winchester City Flyers Girls FC 
Lioness Award 
Winchester City Flyers FC is an FA Charter Standard club that play in the Hampshire Girls Youth Football League and Southern Region Women’s Football League. The club was formed in 1996 and comprises of over 24 teams including 21 girls’ teams (Under 8 - Under 18) and 3 ladies’ teams, making it one of if not the largest all-female club in Hampshire. Additionally, there is a thriving Wildcats set-up that is going from strength to strength with each passing season. The club welcomes all girls, ladies, and volunteers to become part of the Flyer's family and to support the ever-growing set-up. Winchester City Flyers FC takes child welfare very seriously, ensuring that through its set-up, the environment is fun, enjoyable, positive, and safe for all participants. 

Sam Gray 
Young Volunteer of the Year Award 
Sam has been volunteering for 3 seasons at Fleet Town FC and has undertaken a multitude of roles and responsibilities. He has served as a matchday Groundsman, worked, and served behind the bar in the clubhouse, worked on the gate and in the burger van and has line marked the pitch in preparation for the club’s training and playing needs. Sam participated in the Fleet Half Marathon to fundraise for Fleet Town FC’s partner charity: Mustard Seed Autism Trust. He helped raise £1,700 for the charity and additionally, is looking to become a Trustee.  

Steve Berry 
Grounds Team of the Year Award 
Steve started marking pitches 15 years ago when he took full control of the pitches. Eventually, he became the full-time groundsman for AFC Bournemouth, Wimborne Town and he still maintains the pitches for East Christchurch Sports and Social Club FC on a voluntary basis. Steve has achieved similar awards for his work on the football pitches and has even received the Groundsman of the Year and Grounds Team of the Year Awards consecutively for the last three years.  

AFC Whiteley Youth 
Club of the Year Award 
AFC Whiteley was founded 24 years ago by Dave Sherwood with the motto ‘just enjoy the football’. Since then, the club has supported hundreds of players, volunteers & families, welcoming and embracing all participants. Dave's passion for championing inclusion is embedded throughout the club. In 2019 the club launched Wildcats which now has over 50+ girls. This season they also launched Squad Girls, 3 new girls’ teams and 3 boys’ teams, with more girls’ teams' also starting next season. The club runs PAN disability football sessions which is a core focus for the new season ahead. It offers a proactive environment for coaches to develop, mentoring support and retains a strengthened community comprising of families and volunteers that collectively drive football for all. AFC Whiteley encouraged the local Parish Council to reinstate old pitches, subsequently working with them to build this facility for the club. Anything is truly possible at AFC Whiteley! 
 
North East Hampshire Youth League 
League of the Year Award 
The North East Hampshire Youth League NEHYL was formed in 1970. They are a proactive England Football Accredited league who engage with a number of Hampshire FA/ FA lead initiatives and are always trying to innovate and do new things to improve the football offer in their area. The league offers football to just short of 800 teams with plans to increase their reach by offering more girls football and looking to provide a bridge into adult football via a new U23's division in conjunction with the Aldershot and District Saturday League. NEHYL is managed by a devoted and passionate committee of volunteers who want girls and boys of all abilities to have the opportunity to play youth football in their area which covers the borders of Hampshire, Berks & Bucks and Surrey. The league is already delivering an extraordinary amount of provision which spans across both Saturdays and Sundays. They have applied to Hampshire FA to expand their girl’s provision on a Sunday due to girls teams in their local area needing a more localised football opportunities which demonstrates their innovative approach to tackle issues which affect their members and people within their local area.

Hampshire FA Foundation Awards
A Hampshire FA Foundation Award recognises an individual, club, league, or organisation that has contributed to one of Hampshire FA Foundation’s three key pillars. Those pillars are Disability Football, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, and/or Community Coaching throughout the 2023/24 season. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

St Peter’s Church & Southampton and Winchester Visitor’s Group (SWVG) 
St Peter’s Church in Winchester and Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group (SWVG) have been working to support asylum seekers and refugees in the South Hants area for several years. In January 2023, 55 young men from countries all around the world were relocated to a remote hotel within the M3 southbound motorway services. David Marchant and Paul Bedford with the help of others, organised and delivered kit and weekly football training sessions to over 30 of these young men who were desperately in need of exercise, fun and friendship which the universal language of football can uniquely provide. They entered teams in Hampshire FA’s Equality FC tournaments and made lifelong friendships through their football experience. 
 
Jamie Palmer & Inclusive Brendon 66 FC 
Jamie has played football for over 25 years and attended a 12-week disability programme held by Saints Foundation with his son, who was born with physical disabilities. His son struggled in a mainstream football setting due to his physical and visual impairments. This led to Jamie establishing a fully inclusive set-up that welcomed children and adults with disabilities. Jamie has coached over 80 players, both male and female with various physical, neurological, and visual impairments. His primary focus is to ensure that the individuals have fun and enjoy themselves in a safe and welcoming environment and to foster meaningful and binding relationships. The club has now taken the step to provide playing opportunities for children as young as four years old. Inclusive Brendon 66 FC will be travelling around the UK participating at various training grounds and at state-of-the-art facilities.  

Gerald Merritt 
Gerald started refereeing in February 1959 and progressed to Level 5. He became a Referee Appointment Secretary and served for 10 years, eventually progressing to become a Referee Observer. Gerald has served in the role for 34+ years and to the present day. He was awarded a Hampshire FA Service to Football Award in 2005 and additionally was awarded a Hampshire FA Referee Award for outstanding contribution to refereeing in the 2017/18 season. Gerald received his FA Long Service to Football Award after completing over 50 years of service. He is a Life Vice President of Hampshire FA, North Hants Divisional FA and Basingstoke & District Football League. Today he is a Safeguarding Officer and President of the Basingstoke & District Football League. Additionally, he is a Referee Observer on the Hampshire, Combined Counties & Hellenic football leagues. Gerald is also one of the longest serving Hampshire FA Benevolent Officers and serves the North Hants area.  

Portsmouth Amputee FC 
Portsmouth Amputee FC have been one of Hampshire’s most decorated teams. The team finished fourth in the EAFF Champions League last October and have accumulated a series of titles achieved over the course of the last few seasons. The team was founded in 2015 by current player Ray Westbrook. Since the club was founded, it has expanded to compete nationally in the English Amputee Football Association (EAFA) Premier League and over the years has fought against some fierce opponents including the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton and Manchester City. The team train at Mountbatten Leisure Centre weekly on Tuesdays, with the squad now consisting of 10 players, six of whom are current England internationals and another 3 being ex-England international players or part of the England Talent ID pathway. The team have been led by joint Head Coaches Callum Fowler and Patrice Link since 2021 and have overseen various successful campaigns collecting the EAFA Premier League, EAFA League Cup and EAFA Play Off titles in a three-year spell and four FA Disability Cup Finals.  
 

The FA Long Service to Football Awards (50 Years)
The FA Long Service to Football Award is a highly prestigious award made to those who have given an astonishing 50 years of service to football. 

Recipients of this award for the 2023/24 season are: 

Brian LeBreton 
Brian qualified as a referee in Hameln, Germany in 1973 whilst serving in the Army. He gained promotion through the levels, achieving Class 1 (level 5) in May 1980 and a year later, qualified as an FA Registered Assessor (Observer). In the same year, the FA promoted him to the Assistant Referee List of the Football Combination, followed by the Isthmian League and refereed on the Home Counties League (Combined Counties League). Brian went onto become an FA Licensed Instructor in August 1987 and progressed to become an FA Generic Tutor in October 2004. In January 2013, Brian became an FA Referee Mentor. Since gaining his qualifications, he has enjoyed training, assisting with promotions, and supporting the development of hundreds of referees which he continues to do to the present day. 

Derrick Porter 
Derrick co-founded the Bournemouth Youth Football League in 1973, became Chairman in 1981 and Life President in 1998. Through 50 years of service to the league, he worked tirelessly to turn the Sunday afternoon kickabout into one of the largest youth football leagues in the South of England. His commitment was unwavering, and he took great pride in watching youngsters develop through enjoying The Beautiful Game. Sadly, Derrick passed away in February of this year, but the Hampshire FA have decided to make this award posthumously and we are joined this evening by Derrick’s son Michael who will accept the award on his father’s behalf. 

Dave Pritchard 
Dave has been involved in grassroots football for many years, from youth to adult, as a player and as a referee. He is now involved at Fernheath where he regularly maintains the football pitches. 

Colin Phillimore 
Colin’s journey in grassroots football began at the age of 17 where he served as Club Secretary of Jubilee Athletic FC. After 3 seasons he was approached by Overton United FC to become their secretary and has additionally served in roles including Chairman and currently as Treasurer since 1975. Colin joined Portals Athletic FC as a player and within a year also became their secretary. Colin was part of the steering committee that founded the Wessex League and additionally, was involved in the formation of the Hampshire Premier League where he is currently also Chairman. He has served on the North Hants Divisional FA Council, North Hants Football League, and Basingstoke and District Football League. Colin was a committee member of Hampshire Sunday League and Hampshire Sunday senior cup winners, Test Valley Select. As a player with Overton United FC, he was fortunate enough to win the North Hants Senior League and Basingstoke Senior Cup. Colin was one of the founders of Basingstoke Town Community Football Club and was a Director and Treasurer for the first two seasons. 

Paul Sturrock 
Paul started playing football in Hampshire in the 1968/69 season after moving to Andover from London. He played for South Way and Quarley in the Andover & District Saturday League. Additionally, he played in the Andover & District Sunday League with Twinings and served in the role of Secretary for 22 years. In 1985, Paul took up refereeing in the Andover & District Saturday League and the Andover & District Sunday League. In 1990, he was promoted and started refereeing in the Hampshire Senior League and continued to referee on local leagues in Andover. Paul became a member of the North Hants Divisional FA Council in 2005, a role which he still serves to the present day. In 2012, Paul received the Hampshire FA 25-year Referee Service to Football Award and in 2022, was presented with a Certificate of Commendation Award for completing an additional 10 years of service to refereeing in Hampshire.  

Monty Weighill 
Monty started playing football when he was 9 years old for Wolversdene junior school and continued through to middle school at Andover Senior Boys School. He transitioned to Aoppots Anne Youth FC in the U18s North Hants Lads League where they went onto win the North Hants Cup 3 times in a row. Monty continued his playing career into his late 30s. He then took a referee's course with Tutor, Martin Turner. Monty qualified as a referee in the mid-1960s and gained his Class 1 referees' qualification in 1974. Monty is a regular referee on Hampshire FA cup finals and has supported Portsmouth and Southampton finals as well as ladies' finals over the years. He is a Referee Officiator and is Chairman of the Andover Referees’ Society. Monty sits on the North Hants Council and on the Andover Sunday League as a representative, both roles which he has served for over 30 years. 

Kevin Moore 
Kevin began his journey in football as a referee, qualifying in Plymouth in July 1970 with the Royal Navy. He was promoted to Class 2 in 1972 and then to Class 1 in 1974 before then deciding he wanted to become a Referee Instructor. Kevin applied through Navy Channels and in 1980 became a Referee Instructor in Portsmouth. From 1982, Kevin began refereeing on the Isthmian league and stopped refereeing in 1992. He then moved into the administrative side of refereeing as an Appointment’s Secretary, supporting midweek, Saturday and Sunday fixtures and additionally was the county appointments secretary until 1994. Kevin has held several roles including Chairman of the Portsmouth Referees Development Group, Director of the Portsmouth Academy, Assessor Secretary, Mentor as well as Referee Instructor. He cites his ‘dream came true’ when the Portsmouth Referee Development Group was established as it offered support, connection, guidance as well as necessary after care for all referees.