Grassroots Football Celebrated at Leicestershire & Rutland County FA Recognition Awards 2025

More than 300 members of the grassroots football community came together at Athena, Leicester, earlier this month as the Leicestershire & Rutland County FA (LRCFA) hosted its annual Recognition Awards.

The evening (Thursday, September 4) shone a spotlight on the dedication, passion, and resilience of volunteers, referees, coaches, league officials, and club leaders across the county. A total of 12 Grassroots Awards and 12 Special Recognition Awards were presented to individuals and organisations making an outstanding contribution to the game.

Picture credit: Recognition Awards 2025

Hosted by sports broadcaster Ian Stringer, the event was supported by headline sponsor GoCardless, with TeamFeePay sponsoring the Special Recognition Awards including the prestigious Gerry Cooper and Ivor Finn Awards.

Special guests and former Leicester City stars Steve Walsh and Matt Elliott took part in a lively Legends Lounge conversation, reflecting on their playing careers and the importance of grassroots football.

The evening also raised vital funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF). A charity auction supported by the See It Now Group and the County FA’s raffle together generated nearly £1,000. Guests were also given a live on-stage CPR demonstration from BHF Fundraising Manager Melanie Meik, equipping more than 300 attendees with vital life-saving knowledge.

Leicestershire & Rutland County FA Ceo, Joe Dunmore praised the award winners and nominees: “The Recognition Awards are a true reflection of the spirit of grassroots football across Leicestershire and Rutland. Every winner and nominee represents the values of dedication, inclusivity, and passion that make our game thrive. By highlighting the stories of those who give so much, we hope to encourage even more people to get involved and ensure the game continues to grow for future generations.”

Award Highlights

Special Recognition Award Winners

10 Years Long Service: Matt Irish & Iain Brown (Desford FC) – Coached the same team from U6 to U16, supporting players through challenges and successes while creating a safe and positive environment.
25 Years Long Service: Carl Smith (Referee) – Dedicated 25 years as a volunteer match official, giving up weekends in all weathers and continuing despite health setbacks, including two knee replacements.
50 Years Long Service: John Collier (Oakthorpe Athletic) – A club stalwart since 1974, serving as player, manager, secretary, chairman, and groundsman while helping the club thrive for over five decades.
Craig Gardiner (Cottesmore Royals AFC) – Founded the club from scratch and grew it to 40+ members, championing diversity and offering vital family support within the community.
Marion (Maz) Hayton (Harborough Town) – Over 30 years of service, driving growth from 40 to more than 67 teams, helping to make the club one of the largest in the county.
Mark Roscoe (AFC Market Bosworth) – As chair, oversaw membership growth from 100 to over 350, building pathways across the game and leading major facility improvements.
Sean Jesson (One Touch Football) – Created One Touch Disability Football, ensuring inclusive opportunities for players of all abilities and embedding disability provision into local football.
Steve Wilkinson (Loughborough Foxes Girls & Ladies FC) – For more than 25 years has mentored players, led fundraising, and supported community initiatives, helping to strengthen the female game.
Stuart Turner (Quorn FC) – Dedicated 40 years to his club, driving development on and off the pitch including facilities upgrades and long-term sustainability.