EAST RIDING FA UNSUNG HERO OF THE MONTH – NOVEMBER 2024

The East Riding FA Unsung Hero of the Month award recognizes 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 people 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 Anei Akon.

Anei is the manager of Acorn FC, the counties first ever asylum seeker and refugee specific affiliated football club.

The club was created over a year ago to provide activity and opportunities to play 11-aside football with the team made up from people who access help and support from the Welcome House charity in Hull.

Although the team is supported by a several people it is Anei who is the real driving force with his enthusiasm and positive personality driving the team forward to the point where it is now playing regular fixtures against teams in our county and beyond.

Anei is a tremendous organiser and motivator with the Acorn FC training sessions attracting over 120 people from nations across the globe since its inception. Key to the success of Acorn FC has been Anei’s ability to unite people from a whole range of countries which is helped by the fact that Anei can speak seven different languages.

His passion for football and his eagerness to use the power of the football to unite people and integrate members of his team into the wider community means that Anei is always prepared to reach out for help and support with him often prioritising the needs of other beyond on his own.

Anei’s journey to the UK hasn’t been an easy one with him fleeing his home nation after witnessing the murder of both his parents. Faced with joining the Army or being killed himself Anei took the tough decision to flee with him determined to create a better life in a safe and welcoming community.

The trauma Anei has suffered makes his achievements with Acorn FC even more remarkable especially has you will rarely see him without his infectious smile or warm welcome.

Football is without doubt his passion and he is committed to helping people play and access football with him helping communities unite through Acorn FC and Welcome House.

East Riding FA Communications and Participation Officer Chris Johnson said, “Anei has shown tremendous courage and strength after bearing witness to the most horrific acts. His willingness to help others and his love for the game really stands out though and Anei has become a much-appreciated member of our grassroots football community.”

Anei will now be nominated for an award at the 2025 Grassroots Football Awards.

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.