Port celebrate national prize
PORTHMADOG’S Football in the Community scheme has landed a prestigious national award.
The club won Fun Football Provider of the Year in the 2017 FAW Community Awards, presented by McDonald’s, and held at Cardiff City Stadium last Saturday.
Porthmadog FITC were recognised at a national level for their ongoing contribution to local grassroots football.
During the ceremony, Porthmadog FITC collected their award from ex-Wales striker, Jermaine Easter, in front of an esteemed crowd containing legends such as Ryan Giggs.
The McDonald’s and FAW Community Awards, now in their 10th year, recognise and celebrate volunteers, coaches, clubs and leagues throughout Wales, whose dedication and hard work ensures the ongoing success of grassroots football in local communities.
This year, the FAW and McDonald’s received over 300 nominations for the awards.
A delighted Porthmadog FITC officer Gethin Jones said: “Porthmadog FITC have achieved an awful lot as a McDonald’s/FAW Fun Football Provider.
“We currently work within 15 schools across South Gwynedd, providing the children with their first experiences of football, helping them to fall in love with the game, whilst also linking football sessions literacy and numeracy activities.
“The club has worked closely with FAW partnership manager Mike Parry to set up girls turn-upand play sessions, something that has not been seen in the local com- munity for many years.
“They also lead holiday clubs, where over 140 children attended across the week during Easter period and have hosted 10 events across the summer, plus mini football festival in conjunction with the Llyn and Eifionydd Junior League, where 18 teams were able to play in a fun and safe environment with the UEFA Champions League Trophy in attendance.
“The club continuously look for ways to provide engaging, fun activities for children of all abilities and long may it continue.”
McDonald’s Head of Welsh Football, former Wales and Manchester United great Giggs, said: “The extraordinary commitment and dedication shown by Porthmadog FITC is inspiring, making them very worthy winners of the Fun Football Provider of the Year Award.”