The work of Bemerton Heath Harlequins was praised by local MP John Glen, as he helped launch a new scheme to reward volunteers.
Glen visited Moon Park to launch the new Volunteer Certificates initiative from league sponsors Pitching In, which hopes to inspire more people to give up their time to help their local Non-League club.
The certificates are awarded to volunteers Bradley Wright and Kye Lucas to mark the time and effort they have given to the Pitching In Southern League Division One South club, and to recognise the invaluable role volunteers play in keeping local clubs running.
Glen was on hand to give out the very first certificates of the scheme, and hailed the Bemerton Heath Harlequins’ central role in the community.
“I’ve visited Bemerton Heath Harlequins regularly over the years and am continually amazed by everything they do for our community,” said Glen. “I was delighted to support their latest endeavour and award the first of the new Pitching In Trident Volunteer Certificates to some of their most committed volunteers.
“It’s right that people in our community who give up their time for others are recognised for their efforts – this is a brilliant initiative for football clubs across communities to get involved with.”
The certificates are part of the wider focus league sponsors Pitching In have put on volunteers over the course of their sponsorship, which began in 2020.
They have also launched a Volunteer Hub to help people easily find a role at their local club, and have provided grants of up to £5,000 via their Trident Community Foundation which have so far totalled over £400,000.
Volunteers play a key role at clubs like Bemerton Heath Harlequins, who enjoyed a strong mid-table finish on their first year back in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South last season.
And Bemerton chairman Ricky Rogers hailed the vital role volunteers have played in laying the foundations for on-pitch success.
"For a number of years it's been a wish of mine to say more than a thank you to our young volunteers who help on match days come rain or sun, week in week out,” he said. “These recognition certificates do just that, giving young volunteers an accreditation they can add to their CV or use in a job application.
“I am so pleased our MP John Glen shares this view and made time to present these certificates to two of our most dedicated young volunteers from our Bemerton community."
To find volunteering opportunities near you, see: Volunteer Opportunities
WORDS: James Reid
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