FOOTBALL: Outstanding contribution of super St Ives Rangers servant Wendy Chambers recognised as she is shortlisted for national accolade
Wendy Chambers has been nominated for a national award. Picture: NICKY J SIMS - THE FA/GETTY IMAGES - Credit: The FA via Getty Images
A fine servant to local football is in the running for a national award.
Wendy Chambers, a well-known figure in the Hunts sporting community, is one of six contenders from around the country for the 2017 FA People’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Football.
It’s an accolade which recognises exceptional volunteering efforts and carries the extra significance of being voted for by the public.
Chambers has already won local and regional awards after being nominated by St Ives Rangers – the club she has served for more than 13 years.
“I’m very honoured to have even been considered for this award and I was amazed to win the two rounds I have as there are so many people doing so much great work in football,” said Chambers.
“I love the game and live for it, and I take a huge about of pleasure in being able to see children enjoying themselves and developing.
“I have no idea how I would react if I were to win the national award. Just to be considered worthy is a wonderful feeling.”
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Chambers first got involved in football as her son’s Under 9 side was in need of a manager and she has since held the positions of secretary, welfare officer and treasurer at the thriving club, which currently boasts 44 teams.
Chambers has also worked hard to promote football opportunities for people with disabilities at Rangers – doing everything from picking up players for training sessions to organising trips to major events. A group of 51 players, carers and family members recently attended an England game at Wembley.
Not content with being a tireless administrator, Chambers is also an FA qualified football and futsal coach who is not afraid to step into a managerial hotseat if a team is ever in need.
Chambers does not just devote her time to football – she is also a coach and administrator for St Ives Swimming Club.
Dean Watson, county development manager at the Hunts FA, said: “Wendy doesn’t just deserve our thanks for all the work she does in football as a volunteer, but also our votes as he would be a fitting winner of this award.
“We all know that Wendy is always willing to offer support whenever or wherever she can. She never seeks any sort of reward for the work she does, which benefits so many people.”
Votes can be places by visiting www.thefa.com/peoplesaward2017 - anyone without an FA account will be required to create one in order to vote.
Voting closes on July 30 with the winner being announced at the FA Community Shield game between Arsenal and Chelsea on August 6.
