The man they call Mr. Royston Town FC, Alan Barlow, was presented with a lifetime achievement award from the Herts Sports Partnership ahead of their Pitching In Southern League Premier Central clash with Long Eaton United at the weekend.
The Club President has given almost 49 years’ service and counting to The Crows, which began back in 1975 as a player before moving on to volunteering and every major position within the club, except for Treasurer.
He has been President since 1996 and during that time he has played his part in helping the club grow to the inclusive community outfit it is today with over 700 youth players and over 120 adult players.
He was also instrumental in setting up the club’s first Women’s team in 1997, and despite some obstacles along the way, it now boasts nine teams and a Girls’ Development Programme.
In 2018, the club launched its own Community Programme and Alan has been at the heart of that too with full-time staff now working with local schools, educating pupils on a range of subjects, from healthy eating and lifestyles, to mental health.
Highly respected throughout the club, he leads by example in support of ‘his team’.
“This is not my award, it is our award,” he was keen to point out. “It’s a team effort with so many different people playing their part; I just try to influence things in a way that is good for the club and community.”
The Pitching In Southern League congratulates Alan on such sterling service to his club. People like him are worth their weight in gold and should be cherished and recognised for their sheer commitment and dedication.
Saturday's 3-0 win sees Royston Town move out of the bottom four. They travel to Coalville Town at the weekend before hosting Hitchin Town on Boxing Day and then travelling to Leiston on New Year's Day.
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