North Wales grassroots football heroes are celebrated in national awards ceremony

Four North Wales winners were crowned at the 2024 FAW and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards ceremony at the Cardiff St. David’s Hotel.

They were:

TOGETHER STRONGER AWARD – CONNAH’S QUAY TOWN FC

The FAW and McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards recognise and celebrate the tireless work of heroes who make football possible by consistently supporting their communities by going above and beyond.

The awards are now in their 20th year and the volunteers at Connah’s Quay Town FC join a long list of inspirational grassroots football stars who have been recognised by the programme.

Connah’s Quay Town FC have responded with compassion to the passing of their much-loved player Jamie Wynne.

Tragically, Jamie died 18 months ago, and the club has harnessed their grief to implement a mental health strategy for fans and players alike. They have worked with the community to create a safe space to talk, promote mental health training, and signpost available support.
The club’s initiatives focus on fitness and mental health. 

It has produced literature promoting available support, introducing club members to well-being champions within their ranks and providing contact information for key mental health organizations such as Samaritans, Mind and Shout.
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Together Stronger’ truly embodies the ethos of the club and their commitment to supporting one another and the wider Deeside community makes them deserving winners of this award.

Volunteers from Connah’s Quay Town collected their award from Welsh football legend and McDonald’s Fun Football Ambassador Helen Ward who commented. “My career would not have been possible without volunteers like those at Connah’s Quay Town who dedicate their time and effort to nurturing and expanding grassroots football within their community.

“Connah’s Quay Town FC truly embodies the lifeblood of the grassroots game. They are a testament to their community and an inspiration to those looking to get involved in the grassroots game.”

Queensferry McDonald’s Franchisee Stewart Williams, an avid supporter of grassroots football in the Deeside area, added: “Connah’s Quay Town is a shining example of what it means to go the extra mile to make a difference in your community. Their work within Deeside is truly commendable and has made a huge impact.

“It’s clear to see Connah’s Quay Town FC has a very bright future ahead of them and I am sure they will continue to support the local community in Deeside for years to come.”

The club is successful on the field as well as off it, their first team having been promoted to the Tier 3 Ardal North West League this season and are currently unbeaten joint leaders.

MATCH OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR – MASON PARRY

North Wales based Mason Parry is national winner of the prestigious Grassroots Match Official of the Year Award.

Mason’s passion for football has been evident since he could walk. Starting at age two at Prestatyn soccer school, he quickly showcased his talent, earning trials with premier league clubs.

Despite facing setbacks and rejections, Mason’s dedication never wavered. At 14, he suffered a ruptured ACL, but his determination saw him through a rigorous recovery, leading him to become a respected referee.

Mason’s journey has inspired many in his local community, encouraging a surge in young referees.

Recognized by higher officials, Mason now officiates at tier 3, setting a high standard for others to follow.

His leadership and role model status extend beyond the pitch, making him a deserving winner of this award

Mason collected their award from Welsh football legend and McDonald’s Fun Football Ambassador Matt Jones.

YOUNG VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – EVIE FLANAGAN

Evie Flanagan, who plays for Broughton United, scooped the Young Volunteer of the Year Award.

At just 14 years old, Evie has already made a significant impact at her club. Over the past year, she has represented the club at the FA Youth Council event, become a BE Football Influencer at her high school, and is completing her Leaders Award.

Evie also helps coach the U7 girls’ team and leads the Girls FAW Huddle sessions.

The youngster’s dedication and willingness to give back to her club and community are truly commendable.

She is patient, understands the importance of communication with younger players, and is a shining example to her peers. Popular with all participants, Evie is well-regarded at the club.

Her achievements at such a young age are fantastic, making her a real role model for girls starting out in football.

Evie collected her award from Helen Ward.

Cheshire McDonald’s Franchisee Jeanette Roe said: “Mason Parry and Evie Flannagan are both shining examples of what it means to go the extra mile to make a difference in your community.

“Their work within North Wales is truly commendable and has made a huge impact. It’s clear that the both of them have a very bright future ahead of them and I am sure they will continue to support the local community in North Wales for years to come.”

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – DAVID PARRY

David Parry, who faithfully serves tier 3 Ardal North East club CPD Rhos Aelwyd, has won the prestigious Volunteer of The Year Award.

David’s dedication to Rhos Aelwyd spans over 50 years, during which he has undertaken every role within the club.

Currently serving as treasurer, David’s contributions go far beyond financial management. He meticulously maintains the pitch, organizes kits, washes warm-up shirts, sets up and takes down goal nets, and cleans the changing rooms.

His commitment extends to ensuring all youth teams have the necessary kits and equipment.

David’s tireless work and unwavering commitment have earned him immense respect throughout the NEWFA area.

Known for his humility, he never seeks recognition, yet his invaluable contributions deserve to be celebrated.

David’s passion and dedication are the backbone of Rhos Aelwyd, making him a true pillar of the community.

This great stalwart collected his award from Matt Jones.

Wrexham McDonald’s Franchisee Annemarie Maher said: “David’s work within Ponciau is truly commendable and has made a huge impact.”

• McDonald’s is the longest-standing supporter of grassroots football in the UK, having celebrated Grassroots Heroes at the Grassroots Football Awards for 20 years.
  

In addition to championing local grassroots heroes, McDonald’s Fun Football has provided over 500,000 children aged 5-11 with free football coaching since 2022. The programme is committed to
providing 1 million children with access to free football coaching by 2026.

For further information on McDonald’s involvement in grassroots football and to find out how your club could benefit visit www.mcdonalds.co.uk/football