A YOUNG footballer from Denbighshire has been awarded the '2020 Best Grassroots Football Story of the Year' prize at the FAW and McDonalds Grassroots Football Awards.
The awards ceremony celebrates the efforts of grassroots football volunteers across Wales who go the extra mile to support their local communities.
Launched in March this year by former Wales striker and McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador John Hartson, the public response has been extremely strong.
Now, Garmon Edwards-Jones of Saron, near Denbigh, has joined a long list of inspirational grassroots volunteers to have been recognised by the awards programme.
The youngster first joined Kinmel Bay FC's Visually Impaired Group when he was five years old. During the four seasons he spent with the club, Garmon learnt all the football techniques and through his patience and dedication became more confident at mastering skills.
From the start, he was determined that he would be in a position to one day to play mainstream football.
Now 12 years old, he plays as a central holding midfielder in an 11 a-side team for Henllan Juniors.
Garmon Edwards-Jones in his Henllan kit. PIC: Red Consultancy.
At times, he still encounters problems seeing and gauging the ball when it’s in the air, however, because of his dedication to overcome issues, he is considered one of the most competent players in his team.
Garmon received his prestigious award during a virtual awards ceremony held by the FAW Trust on November 26. Wales and Luton Town defender Tom Lockyer was on hand to congratulate him via video, with Garmon adding that this favourite things about football are 'tackling and passing'.
McDonald’s Franchisee, Stewart Williams, who is an avid supporter of grassroots football in Denbighshire, said: “We want to congratulate Garmon Edwards-Jones on his fantastic win, it’s great to see a national winner from Denbighshire. It’s people like Garmon that keep the grassroots game going from strength to strength and we hope that this win inspires others in Denbighshire to get involved in grassroots football.”
Jayne Ludlow, Wales Women’s National Team Manager, said: “It’s been a really difficult year for the whole country, but I’m so pleased we’re able to recognise and celebrate the volunteers who go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their local communities. The tireless work of volunteers like Garmon Edwards-Jones is what keeps the game going. Garmon should be extremely proud of all his achievements and grassroots football in Wales is in a much better place with him being a part of it.”
To watch the full awards ceremony, visit: www.facebook.com/FAWTrust/videos/369258644364685
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