The England Football and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards recognise and celebrate the people who put their heart and soul into the Grassroots Game across England, and to say a huge thank you to the incredible volunteers who inspire us all.

This year, we had a record-breaking number of nominations for the Awards. We would like to congratulate all of the nominees and thank them for their fantastic work in the community.

All our winners have encouraged the very best, both in yourself and in everybody around them. They have risen to overcome challenges and made a truly positive impact in the game.

Liverpool FA are so proud and happy to have them in our Merseyside grassroots community.

WINNERS

Coach of the Year for Youth - Kevin Flannery

Kevin's achievements this year far outweigh football. In January this year, one of Kevin's players at Parkdale Sidac Celtic U18s suffered a cardiac arrest. Kevin was quick to react and helped save the boy's life and helped to keep the other players calm throughout the emergency.

Kevin's compassion has not let up following the incident - offering the players counselling, keeping in constant contact with the player's family, and raising £2,000 for live-saving AED equipment at the club.

Coach of the Year for Adults - Steve Woodrow

Steve's work at Liverpool Transplant Team has had a fantastic impact on his players.

His positive attitude means that when players come to play for Liverpool Transplant Team, they are made to feel invincible!

Steve always ensures everybody feels part of the team, and understands how important physical and mental health are - a fantastic role model for everyone.

Club of the Year - Bold Rangers JFC

Bold Rangers JFC are a vital part of the community for everyone associated with the club.

They have 15 teams for people of all ages, gender and ability, and their no restrictions policy means they have recently had a surge of young players with autism and ADHD join their ranks, as well as new asylum residents from the area.

In addition to the football, the club are embarking on a project with St Helen's Council and Torus Housing to give players access to a youth club, community café, and drop-in sessions for mental health.

Bold Rangers JFC are a model club where children are always playing with a smile on their face.

League of the Year - Liverpool Old Boys League

Despite the impact of COVID-19, Liverpool Old Boys League has managed to retain its success, and has now increased its participation to four divisions of 10-11 teams.

This success is down to the support they offer all the teams. They regularly organise meetings between players, coaches and referees to ensure everyone feels part of the family.

They are also great supporters of local charities and national campaigns such as Rainbow Laces.

Volunteer of the Year - Maureen Price

Maureen has been involved with the Scotland Road and District League for an incredible 28 years!

Her tireless work has had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of children, and she is a pillar of the community.

She also uses the power of football in charitable work, and has recently driven initiatives to support local food banks and charities.

Rising Star of the Year - Tamzin Dentith

Despite being just 17 years old, Tamzin has already thrown herself into every aspect of football. In addition to playing, she coaches an U10s team and has recently become a qualified U18 referee. She fits all of this around her work, and her performances in all areas are often highlighted by members of the Liverpool football community.

Tamzin is a peoples’ person and is incredibly dedicated and enthusiastic about grassroots football in our area. She is a role model for other young people, and has had a great impact on everyone around her.

Grounds Team of the Year - David McClellan

Groundsman David McClellan is a vital part of AFC Knowsley. In addition to caring for his disabled wife and daughter, he always makes sure he walks the three miles to the club’s site several times a week to ensure all seven pitches are cut and marked out to a high standard. He also helps clean the changing rooms and function room after the weekend’s games.

Dave is always thinking of new ideas on how to make his pitches even better. AFC Knowsley Chairman Mike Gibbons said: ‘We would simply be lost without Dave.’

Project of the Year - Liverpool Football Therapy

Liverpool Football Therapy provides a safe space and support for adults with diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health difficulties. They provide three two-hour sessions per week where participants are able to get active and chat with others.

An attendee at the sessions said “I didn’t care for myself the way I should, but I joined Liverpool Football Therapy and was warmly welcome by everyone. I was also added to the group chat, and the support from everyone has been amazing.”

The group also ensures they offer services outside of the team, and are regularly present at league games and tournament to provide support to anyone who needs it.

Match Official of the Year - Robert Kearley

In his first season as a Match Official, 16-year-old Rob has gained an excellent reputation for being a very good referee. He is punctual, helpful and very caring towards all the players he officiates.

Rob is always on hand to explain why a decision is made, and is observant and calm – helping him make excellent decisions throughout the game.

He has made amazing strides in his first year, and is regularly complimented for his performances by the coaches and players he shares the pitch with.

Spirit of Grassroots Football Award - Paul Moran

Paul is a much loved football photographer across Merseyside. He has attended well over 300 grassroots football games this season and always has his camera in his hand to capture the action.

His photos highlight everything that is great about grassroots football, and his photos always give a boost to the players, coaches and referees he snaps through his lens.

Paul gives up hours of his time every week to provide photos to ensure the football community will have memories for years to come.

See Paul’s photos on his Twitter page @paulmoran62

Congratulations to all of our winners!