Volunteering work earns Beth top national award
A West Lothian teenager has been recognised for her work volunteering at a local football club with a prestigious national award.
Beth Kidd was named Best Young Volunteer at the 2021 Scottish Football Association Grassroots Football Awards, held recently at Hampden Park, for her efforts at Murieston United.
The SFA Grassroots Football Awards were presented by our sister paper the Sunday Mail and McDonald’s and celebrated the tireless volunteers who dedicate countless hours to grassroots football up and down the country.
The awards held a special significance this year as they also celebrated those who have done exceptional things during the pandemic to support their clubs and communities.
Beth, aged just 16, has had an immense impact on Murieston United Whites, arriving at 6.30am every morning to run stretching sessions for the players as well as organising ‘Fun Friday Fitnesses Classes.’
And she also gives her all to helping her team-mates off the pitch, especially when it comes to opening up about mental health.
During lockdown, Beth hosted online sessions for the girls of Murieston United, where she offered her continuous support to every member of her team.
And she made sure she was always just a video call away for anyone who needed her.
Her unwavering dedication has resulted in Murieston United Whites going from strength to strength and she is a very deserving recipient of this award.
Beth accepted her award from former Scotland star James McFadden ahead of the Scotland Women’s team’s World Cup Qualifier against Ukraine at Hampden Park.
During the half-time break, Beth joined the other winners on the pitch to be celebrated for their accomplishments.
McFadden, a McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador, praised all the winners for their hard work under the difficult circumstances of the pandemic.
He said: “It has been a really tough year for the entire grassroots football community.
“That’s why I’m so proud to be in Glasgow to honour these incredible winners.”
And he singled Beth out for special praise for her work with other young people in West Lothian.
He added: “Beth is a testament to her club and is a shining example of how young people can leave a huge positive impact on their community.
“She should be incredibly proud of her work and I’m sure she has a very bright future ahead of her.”
Local McDonald’s franchisee, Mike Hall, an avid supporter of grassroots football in West Lothian, added he was delighed to see Beth recognised for her hard work.
He said: “We are very proud to have a national Grassroots Football Awards winner from West Lothian.
“It’s been a tough year for football, but Beth Kidd has shown impressive dedication to keep the spirit of grassroots football alive in our community.
“It’s an honour to be back at Hampden Park, celebrating all the amazing volunteers who are the heart and soul of the grassroots game.”