At our club, the incredible atmosphere, growth, and success we celebrate week in and week out simply wouldn't be possible without our unbelievable team of volunteers. They are the heartbeat of our community, pouring endless time, energy, and heart into making this a safe, joyful, and inspiring place to play.

At last Sunday’s Junior Team Fun Day, the results of or members' nominations for the 2025/26 Volunteer of the Year Award were announced:

The Winner:Phil Dennis (u14 Lionesses)
Congratulations to Phil Dennis, who takes home this year's top honour!

Phil is an “all-round incredible person who brings an infectious, positive influence to all the girls in the u14 Lionesses”. Known for his endless patience with the girls and meticulous attention to detail, Phil makes it his mission to lift the players at every opportunity. Parents have shared just how safe and happy their daughters feel under his guidance, noting what a joy it has been to watch the girls' confidence soar in such a fun, safe, and supportive space.

The award was proudly presented to Phil by Club Chair James Skinner. On receiving the award, Phil said: "To be honest it's a real shock; I have never really thought I would even be considered.

It’s nice to be appreciated for all the work that gets put in. I’m just glad I am able to help a group of very talented girls to get the most out of their football. Watching them grow in confidence, support each other, and just have fun on the pitch is the best reward any volunteer could ask for. Thank you to everyone for this incredible award!”

Recognising Our Amazing Nominees
While Phil took home the trophy this year, the dedication of our other nominees showcases the unbelievable depth of long-standing passion within the club community.

Gary Hill (u14 Lionesses)
As a previous Volunteer of the Year winner, Gary continues to set the standard for what makes our club special. Another all-round incredible individual working alongside the u14 Lionesses, Gary is praised as an "awesome, highly motivated, and honest coach. He treats every player equally and leads with endless patience and care"—parents noted that "we could all learn a thing or two from Gary’s positive approach to coaching"!

Corinne Jones (Women’s Development Team)
Corinne, who shared the Volunteer of the Year award last season as a joint winner with husband Aaron, continues to demonstrate her unwavering commitment to the club. She has been “truly instrumental in keeping the Women’s Development Team connected, resilient, and thriving both on and off the pitch. Her constant motivation and team spirit have kept the squad strong all year round.”

David Kwiatek (Club Secretary)
Described as the "heart and lungs of our club" and, as one club member put it: “All our volunteers are incredible and passionate, but David is the cement. Hats off, David—thank you for absolutely everything you do!”

Thank You to ALL Our Volunteers!

To Phil, Gary, Corinne, David, and every single person who makes sure our players are able to play at the weekend, whether by running the team or coaching, setting up nets, organising logistics, submitting match sheets, fund raising or countless other ‘hidden’ tasks away from the pitch: Thank you. You make this club a true community.