APPRECIATION is being shown to local football volunteers who emerged victorious from 2020/21’s categories of the Essex County FA’s #CelebrateEssex competition, a popular Twitter contest which recognises the grassroots game’s unsung heroes.

#CelebrateEssex showcases personal stories from local legends, increasing their visibility as role models to inspire newcomers to join the community. All volunteers are the lifeblood of football, putting in countless hours of their time so others can enjoy playing the game they love. More helpers are needed, but football also needs to retain and recognise those already involved.

Through this monthly competition, which involves a nomination process then a Twitter vote, #CelebrateEssex does just that, promoting ten different roles throughout the season. These are the profiles of four of last campaign’s worthy winners:

January (Media Manager): Lewis Murphy and Aaron Moore (Harlow Town Ladies FC)

Modern Media Managers need proficient communication skills and creativity as the public face representing their club, league or organisation. They provide creative content for websites and social media, whether that be written or audio/video, regularly networking to ensure they can be both reactive and proactive. Here’s more about Lewis and Aaron…

Lewis: “My background in football is that I had a very brief stint in men’s Saturday and Sunday football, then it was onto being a media volunteer for Harlow Town Ladies FC. Now most Sundays for me are about photography and videography. I fill any other spare time making up graphics for fixtures alongside planning out our social media for the week with the Club Secretary.”

“I work alongside arguably one of the best sports writers in non-league football, Aaron Moore. We’re always bouncing ideas off each other and, if it wasn’t for him, our content wouldn’t be anywhere near as good as it is. I can’t praise and thank Club Secretary Joe Barker enough, either. He came to me with a media vision and gave me the opportunity to work with this fantastic club.”

“I love football. It’s been a massive part of my life and to be involved with a club is a fantastic feeling. I get to combine two things I’m passionate about every weekend. For anyone looking to volunteer in the media for a non-league side, it’s a great way to truly improve your skills in a rewarding way. Clubs need the support more than ever, and social media is a fantastic tool to engage a fanbase.”

Aaron: “I’ve only been doing football media for the last two seasons, doing match reports and interviews for Walthamstow FC before doing a similar role at Harlow Town Ladies FC. My role as the club reporter is to produce interviews with players and management and match reports for every game, as well as write-ups, including news stories involving the ladies.”

“Interviews are mainly done on a matchday, before and after the match, but I also get a preview at training ahead of games. I usually write the match report during the half time break and after the game to have it ready for just after full time. I work alongside my partner in crime, Lewis Murphy, who usually records the interviews, and it’s great to work alongside such a talented guy.”

“I’d also have to thank Joe Barker, who ensures we have everything we need and for giving me the chance to volunteer at such a great club. What would I say to anyone who’s thinking of taking-up a similar role? Just do it! Football media is the best way to still be involved with football if you can’t play and it’s rewarding to see the positive feedback you get!”

Profiles of all these #CelebrateEssex winners will be shared on Facebook (search for ‘EssexFootball’). Nominations in the first category of the 2021/22 #CelebrateEssex awards for ‘Young Volunteers’ will begin this Thursday (9th September). Visit www.essexfa.com/volunteers to find out about new volunteering opportunities. You can also follow @EssexCountyFA on Twitter.