TRUE SPIRIT OF FOOTBALL
NATIONAL HONOUR FOR YOUNG CP UNITED PLAYER, OLLY MILLER, WHO EMBODIES BEST QUALITIES OF THE BEAUTIFUL GAME
calming influence of England’s 1966 World Cupwinning captain went far beyond his presence on the football pitch. So it’s fitting that 2020’s Bobby Moore Award – a national honour bestowed on an individual who exemplifies the true spirit of grassroots football – should go to a young man with a beaming smile who leads by example in everything he does.
Olly Miller, 14, and his CP United teammates play in the Greater Manchester Ability Counts Football League, which was established in 2003 by Manchester FA.
Olly’s positive influence is felt across the club. If he’s not arriving early to pump up footballs, he’s staying late to help clean up, serve in the club cafe and help coaches deliver sessions to the younger players.
“Olly’s always been a very kind boy,” says mum Sue. “He wants everybody to be friends and get along. If he spots somebody new, he introduces himself. It’s just genuine and natural.
“Football has given him friendship with young and old. He’s mentored by the older lads, but he also mentors a little boy called Archie. It’s also helped to make him stronger and become aware of other disabilities. The league is pan disability, so he could be playing against somebody who is able bodied but might have autism or a sight impairment. Football opens up to everyone.”
Despite also having ADHD, learning difficulties and a serious kidney condition, Olly is constantly upbeat. Now on the FA talent pathway, he’s invited to coached sessions, where support is offered not just on playing skills, but on areas such as strength and conditioning, and healthy eating’.
“To have a child in special care and not know what the outcome will be. Then to be told it’s cerebral palsy. You don’t think they’ll ever kick a football,” Sue adds. “It shows there is a hope. As parents we’re so proud.”