National award winner Garmon is a true inspiration to all

A determined young footballer has become one of the star players in his team despite battling against visual difficulties.

Inspirational Garmon Edwards-Jones, who plays for Henllan Juniors FC, has been crowned winner of the 2020 Best Grassroots Football Story of the Year award.

The 12-year-old, from Saron, near Denbigh, was named one of the national winners at the annual FAW & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards last week.

The awards celebrate the efforts of grassroots football volunteers across Wales who go the extra mile to support their local communities.

Launched in March this year by former Wales striker and McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador John Hartson, the public response has been extremely strong, with the People’s Choice category in particular receiving over 45% more votes this year versus 2019.

The awards feature a wide mix of categories which reflect the huge range of roles that volunteers play.

Garmon joined Kinmel Bay FC’s Visually Impaired Group when he was five years old.

During four seasons spent at Kinmel Bay FC, Garmon learnt all the football techniques and through his patience and dedication became more confident at mastering skills.

From the start he was determined that he would be in a position to one day to play mainstream football.

Now 12 years old, he plays as a central holding midfielder in an 11 a-side team.

At times he still encounters problems seeing and gauging the ball when it’s in the air, however, because of his dedication to overcome issues presented to him he is considered as one of the most competent players in his team.

It has taken a number of years for Garmon to adapt and master the game but the outcome he has achieved is incredible.

Garmon was judged alongside the other regional winners from the Best Grassroots Football Story of the Year 2020 category.

He received his prestigious accolade during a virtual awards ceremony held by the FAW Trust on November 26. Wales and Luton Town defender Tom Lockyer was on hand to congratulate him via video,

Jayne Ludlow, Wales Women’s National Team Manager, said: “It’s been a really difficult year for the whole country, but I’m so pleased we’re able to recognise and celebrate the grassroots players who go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their local communities.

“The tireless work of players like Garmon Edwards-Jones is what keeps the game going.

“Garmon should be extremely proud of all his achievements and grassroots football in Wales is in a much better place with him being a part of it.”