Saturday and Sunday football clubs have the opportunity to put forward nominations for the 2017/18 Essex County FA ‘Groundsman of the Year’ Awards until Wednesday 28th February, rewarding the valued efforts of volunteers.

The Awards recognise hours of effort throughout the year from football’s volunteer workforce at Step Seven or below in the pyramid (including youth football). Forms from clubs and leagues are required as soon as possible so the County FA can undertake site visits and forward three nominations to The FA in time for their own deadline.

Judges examine the quality of nominated pitches and take into consideration the groundsman’s skills and knowledge, their ambitions for the surface, the resources they have available, how often the pitch is used and the amount of time they are able to work on it. Judges look at their working environment, weighing that up against the quality of the pitch. Last season Gordon Harvey of Southminster St Leonard’s FC was named as the number one.

Essex County FA Development Manager, Nick Emery, explained: “This is a great opportunity for leagues and clubs to recognise volunteer groundsmen and the top Essex club will go forward to a national judging stage, undergoing independent adjudication where they can chat to professionals. There are some dedicated efforts from volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure pitches are kept in the best possible condition for players to enjoy the game on.” 

To nominate a groundsman, download and return the form below. Completed forms can be posted to Groundsman of the Year Awards, Essex County FA, The County Office, Springfield Lyons Approach, Chelmsford, CM2 5LB or E-Mailed to info@essexfa.com.