EAST RIDING FA UNSUNG HERO OF THE MONTH – DECEMBER 2022

The East Riding FA Unsung Hero of the Month award recognizes those individuals in our county who are going above and beyond to create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for people to play and enjoy football.

We know that grassroots football in our county is supported by an amazing group of volunteers who put their heart and soul into supporting the game for the benefit of others. This award is our way of recognizing and celebrating their efforts.

The winner of this month’s award is Allan Cope.

Allan is currently the Chairman and Secretary of North Hull based Thorpe Park Rangers and is the manager of the club’s men’s team. He is a well know figure in local football through his involvement with teams such as Red Lion, Drypool Rangers and Croda FC. His contribution to grassroots football in our county goes way beyond that though.

Renowned for his dry sense of humour Allan can often be found with a whistle in his mouth as he takes charge of a number of games across the county each weekend. From refereeing in the East Riding Girls League to travelling the breath of the county to be the man in the middle in the Hull and District Veterans League Allan is a dependable match official who can always be relied on.

Indeed, Allan is currently one of the highest marked referees in the Hull and District Veterans League.

Allan’s contribution to grassroots football stretches way beyond what happens on the pitch though with him recently being named as an East Riding Girls League committee member. A role which he takes great pride in.

He has also been instrumental in helping with the delivery of pan disability football in the county and still finds time to referee East Riding FA Inclusion League fixtures. Allan was also a key figure in establishing walking football in our area with him playing an important role at Hull Pace Makers.

Famed for his generosity Allan is dedicated to making sure that people get the opportunity to play football with him supporting a number of clubs through either advice or the lending of his sides facilitates.

When asked what it means to be given the East Riding FA Unsung Hero of the Month Award Allan said, “The award is great recognition buts not why I am involved in grassroots football. To see the smile on people’s faces is enough for me and I will continue being involved as long as my legs allow me to.”

East Riding FA Participation and Communications Officer Chris Johnson said, “Allan is a real force of nature and clearly enjoys the time he dedicates to football. Without people like Allan our great game would grind to a halt which is why we are delighted to recognise his contribution to grassroots football in East Riding.”

If you know someone who deserves recognition for their contribution to grassroots football, then please click here and nominate them for next month’s award.