VOLUNTEERS WEEK | THE LIFEBLOOD OF OUR MEMBER CLUBS

Celebrating those who give up their time

Volunteers Week 2025 takes place between 2nd June to 8th June as we show our appreciation to those who give up their time to help others across all sectors of society.

Here in the Southern League, volunteers play such a crucial role at clubs across all four of our divisions.

There are so many unsung heroes doing their bit behind-the-scenes week in, week out and as well as shining a light on them, we are also aware of the need to constantly find new volunteers to get involved at our member clubs.

That is where the Pitching In Volunteer Hub comes in. It runs across the Trident Leagues, in association with title sponsors Pitching In.

The Hub assists all member clubs in generating the much-needed support of volunteers, whether it’s for day-to-day operations or just matchday roles.

You will be able to find any current vacancies that member clubs have all in one place as well as who to contact for further information or to apply for the position.

The survival of non-League clubs is only made possible by the fantastic number of volunteers who devote their time and energy into helping out.

If you have that time, your local club would be most grateful, and we encourage you to get in contact with them to find out how you can support them.

There was a nice story at Pitching In Southern League Division One Central outfit, Hertford Town, during the 2024/25 season where loyal volunteer of many years, John Staines, had just one wish for his 93rd Birthday, which coincided with the club’s home game against Flackwell Heath – he wanted to see a crowd of over 1,000.

Every home game, without fail, John stewards the car park at Hertingfordbury Park, whilst his wife, Shelagh, looks after home and away officials in the boardroom.

“People like John are worth their weight in gold,” said Hertford Town player-manager, Ben Herd. “Come rain or shine, he and his wife, Shelagh, are there carrying out their duties with warmth and dedication that has never faded over the decades.

“The word legend is used all too often these days, but John truly is a Hertford Town legend; he represents the very best of non-League football and the volunteers without whom a club like ours simply would not be able to operate.

“Typically his Birthday wish was not about himself, it was about the club that he holds so dear and has been the mainstay of his life. It speaks volumes about his dedication to the club.”

Free admission for all was offered by the club to help John achieve his wish and they were rewarded with a crowd of 1,045 who were treated to a thrilling game which ended in a 6-4 victory for the visitors.

And yes, despite it being his Birthday, John and wife, Shelagh, were both hard at work throughout the afternoon fulfilling their volunteer roles – they didn’t want it any other way!

To all of the volunteers who work tirelessly behind-the-scenes at our member clubs, we salute you and thank you most sincerely for all of your efforts.

Find volunteering opportunities at your local club:
VOLUNTEER HERE

Check out some excellent testimonials from volunteers:
TESTIMONIALS