2011 – Work in progress
The key to a good blog is to update it frequently and entertainingly. The last time I wrote was in June and I very much doubt this will be entertaining, however, here goes!
This blog post will talk about some of my highlights of 2011:
- March 26th 2011: Launch of the McDonald’s / WFT Community Awards at the Wales v England match.
I was lucky enough to be in the tunnel with both teams and experience the atmosphere from pitchside as they walked out. Giving the chance to 22 youngsters to walk out with the team and for two clubs to play on the pitch at half time is very rewarding and they are all very worthy.
- June 22nd 2011: McDonald’s / WFT Community Awards evening, Cardiff Castle
This evening celebrated the heroes of grassroots football who put their free time and own money into improving grassroots football. The night recognised and rewarded them, with true gratitude.
- August 7th 2011: Community Shield – Man City v Man Utd
My second experience of the McDonald’s Community Shield and a match which had everything. The match was after months of hard work and launched the new look & feel for the McDonald’s Football Programme. With the tagline “Helping young footballers shine”, the campaign featured heroes of grassroots football, in the form of Panini-style football cards.
- August 11th 2011: McDonald’s Cup Finals
This day saw the finals of the McDonald’s Cup Finals at Wembley Stadium. The day featured 16 male and 8 female 5-a-side teams who had qualified from across the UK. The successful 24 sides had qualified as the best of over 650 teams that entered. This programme was it’s third incarnation and won an ESA Award in November for the Business to Employee category.
- November 19th 2011: McDonald’s & FA Coaching Masterclass
November saw the first Coaching Masterclass at Wembley Stadium, giving the opportunity to 16 teams to experience a unique ‘masterclass’ from famous and legendary coaches including Dennis Mortimer, John, Peacock, Gareth Southgate, Andrew Cole and Martin Keown. Alongside three McDonald’s Ambassadors – Eric Harrison, Pat Jennings & Sir Geoff Hurst.
- November 22nd 2011: McDonald’s & IFA Community Football Awards
The first ever McDonald’s & IFA Community Football Awards was hosted in the magnificent Belfast City Hall and once again celebrated the heroes of grassroots football. The stories of the people who were awarded are quite incredible and huge praise is necessary for those who devote their time and effort into improving the experience within football at all levels.
So there they are; a few incredible highlights which lead into what will be the greatest year of sport in my lifetime. To be a part of it will be a huge privilege and I for one, can’t wait!
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